09/27/2026
Today’s my birthday! 🥳
And when I think about 28-year-old Annie, she was definitely not the healthiest version of herself. 😂
I worked night shift. I didn’t sleep enough. I was constipated. I ate way more ultra-processed food than whole food. I drank more alcohol. I thought exercise had to be intense to count. And I barely spent time outside.
The last 10 years have taught me that health usually isn’t about doing more.
It’s about doing the simple things consistently.
So, here are 10 things I’ve learned along the way:
1. Sleep matters.
Protecting my sleep has changed my energy, mood, stress and overall health more than I realized.
2. Your digestion matters.
Yes, I’m talking about p**p. 😂 Fiber, whole foods, movement, hydration and supporting my gut made a huge difference. Your gut health matters!
3. Whole foods are not a diet.
I don’t eat well because I’m trying to be “good.” I eat nourishing foods because I genuinely feel better when I do.
4. Walking counts.
I don’t need an intense workout every day. Daily walks have become one of my favorite forms of movement and one of the best things I can do for my mental health.
5. Saying no is healthy.
I’ve gotten much better at protecting my time, energy and the things that actually matter to me.
6. Go outside.
Sunshine, fresh air, nature and time outside have become non-negotiables for me.
7. One meal doesn’t ruin your progress.
I can enjoy the fancy dinner or the cocktail without turning one indulgence into a month of being “off track.” The next meal is simply another opportunity to nourish my body.
8. Quiet matters.
These days, I’d much rather read a book before bed than spend hours scrolling or watching TV.
9. My faith has changed everything.
The older I get, the more I lean on God through both the beautiful seasons and the hard ones.
10. Aging is a blessing.
At 38, I’m stronger, more aware of my body and more intentional about my health than I was at 28.
And yes, I p**p better. 😂
I don’t have it all figured out. I probably never will.
But I know so much more about what actually matters.
Here’s the 38 🤍
Cheers to get older, wiser, and taking care of this one body God gave me!
