6 Lifestyle Medicine Habits That Changed My Life (and Can Change Yours Too)
If you’ve been feeling stuck, low on energy, or just not quite like yourself, I get it. I’ve been there — both as a woman balancing a full life and as a physician watching my patients navigate the same struggles.
Over the years, I’ve learned that creating a healthy, vibrant life isn’t about overhauling everything overnight. It’s about small, consistent shifts that add up to real transformation. And the best roadmap I’ve found comes from Lifestyle Medicine — an evidence-based approach that focuses on six key pillars to help you prevent disease, improve health, and feel your best.
These habits didn’t just change my health — they changed my outlook, my energy, and how I show up in the world. Let’s dive in.
1. Nutrition — Food That Fuels You
I used to think healthy eating had to be complicated. It doesn’t. Focusing on whole, plant-forward meals full of color and flavor has improved my energy, helped me think more clearly, and reduced that mid-afternoon crash.
Action step: Add one extra serving of vegetables to your meals today. Small, consistent changes matter.
2. Physical Activity — Move in Ways You Enjoy
Exercise doesn’t have to mean long workouts at the gym. I started walking more, dancing in my kitchen, and finding ways to move that I actually look forward to. Daily activity boosts my mood, improves sleep, and keeps my body strong for the life I want to live.
Action step: Aim for 20 minutes of movement you enjoy — a walk, a stretch, or even dancing to your favorite song.
3. Restorative Sleep — Protecting My Recharge Time
For years, I wore lack of sleep like a badge of honor. Now, I see it as a red flag. Prioritizing 7–9 hours of sleep each night has been one of the most transformative changes I’ve made. I wake up more focused, patient, and ready to tackle the day.
Action step: Create a 30-minute wind-down routine tonight — dim the lights, put your phone away, and choose a calming activity like reading.
4. Stress Management — Guarding My Energy
Life will always bring challenges, but we get to choose how we respond. I’ve made it a habit to pause, breathe, pray, and take short breaks before the stress builds up. This keeps my energy steady and helps me show up fully for the people I love.
Action step: Before opening your email or social media, pause for two deep breaths. Notice the difference it makes.
5. Avoiding Risky Substances — Clearing What Doesn’t Serve Me
I’m intentional about limiting anything that takes away from my health — whether that’s tobacco, excess alcohol, or even habits that keep me up too late or leave me drained. Clearing out what doesn’t serve you creates space for what does.
Action step: Identify one habit that drains your energy and replace it with something that restores you — like swapping late-night scrolling for stretching or journaling.
6. Positive Social Connections — My Built-In Support System
We were never meant to do life alone. The people we surround ourselves with directly impact our health. I’ve learned to lean into relationships that encourage me, challenge me, and remind me of my worth — and to step back from the ones that drain me.
Action step: Reach out to one supportive friend today. A quick text, call, or walk together can boost both your mood and theirs.
Why I Share This
I believe every woman deserves to feel vibrant, capable, and at home in her own body. These six Lifestyle Medicine habits are my foundation — and they can be yours too. Start small, be consistent, and watch how your life shifts.
If you’re ready to create your own Healthstyle, I’d love to guide you. Click here to download my free Healthstyle Self-Check and start your journey today.