Every New Year, I like to pause and reflect on my life. Is there anything I can do better? What’s working well, and where do I need to make adjustments?

This year, with the topic of Health Care being so prominent in the United States, I decided to take a deeper look at my own Health Plan. While many people were focused on purchasing health insurance, I wanted to make sure that my everyday habits were setting me up for long-term wellness.

That’s when I made a list of the 10 health fundamentals I follow—simple practices that help me feel grounded, strong, and resilient.

Here they are, in hopes they inspire you to build your own personal health plan.

1. Drink Lots of Water

This one sounds simple, but staying hydrated is a game changer. I’ve proven to myself time and again that when I’m fully hydrated, I have more energy and focus. For me, that means drinking 64 oz of water daily. Since plain water can feel boring, I trick myself by drinking herbal teas, lemon water, 100% fruit juices, and soups.

2. Ban Foods That Make Me Feel Sick

About 12 years ago, I did a food elimination diet and discovered that gluten, dairy, sugar, and processed foods make me feel terrible. Now, I make it a habit to avoid them, and I feel so much better because of it. It’s about making intentional choices to support my body.

3. Choose Fruits and Vegetables as My Main Foods

I focus on making fruits and vegetables the foundation of my meals. Juices, salads, soups, smoothies, and roasted veggies are my go-tos. I prioritize organic produce when it’s affordable, but I don’t stress if it’s not. By filling up on these nourishing foods, I’m less likely to splurge on junk.

4. Move My Body Every Day

Exercise isn’t a chore—it’s a joy. I love to walk, hike, golf, ski, practice yoga, and dance on my mini-trampoline. Having a husband who enjoys fitness helps me stay motivated, too! My goal is to increase aerobic capacity, flexibility, and strength—and have fun while doing it.

5. Prioritize Self-Care and Connection

One of my most important habits is slowing down—or better yet, doing nothing for a while. Taking a grownUPgirl “time-out” for 30 minutes—whether it’s meditation, journaling, or just sitting still—helps me reset. I also make time to connect with others—whether it’s touching base with my mom, chatting with friends, or soaking in the love my husband gives me daily. Positive words, podcasts, and quotes are part of my routine to keep my mind clear and uplifted.

6. Maintain a Healthy Weight

I don’t diet. Instead, I focus on making consistent, healthy choices. It’s about staying mindful of how my body feels and adjusting when needed. This mindset helps me stay at a weight that feels right for me.

7. Take Supplements as Needed

To support my digestive health, I take probiotics and enzymes.. For my immune system, I use a multivitamin. I also drink detox teas to support my liver and lungs. When it comes to skincare, I choose all-natural products to reduce my exposure to chemicals.

8. Set Myself Up for Success

Planning is key. I create a weekly meal plan and always carry a healthy snack with me. I make sure to schedule some “me time” and “we time” every day to nurture both myself and my relationships.

9. Have a Support System

I know I can’t do it alone. I rely on myself, but I also have a support network that includes a naturopath, women’s health clinic, functional medicine doctor, chiropractor, acupuncturist, and traditional doctor. Keeping my wellness plan and health history organized makes it easier for healthcare providers to support me.

10. Keep My Emotional Health in Check

My emotional health is just as important as my physical health. I practice gratitude, calm, patience, forgiveness, and love. When I’m feeling off, I go back to my fundamentals and start again. Choosing love—every single day—keeps me grounded and balanced.

The Bottom Line: Health Is a Daily Choice

Health isn’t something you do once a year. It’s a collection of small, consistent choices that add up to a strong, vibrant life. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just not your best, start with one small shift. And remember: Your main responsibility is to be happy and to be a good force on this planet.

Q: Is there anything else I should be doing? Any suggestions?
I’d love to hear how you stay healthy! Share your thoughts in the comments or message me on social!