Let’s be real—building healthy habits can feel really overwhelming, especially when social media makes it look like you need a 5 a.m. wake-up call, a perfect smoothie, and a flawless workout routine to even qualify.
But over the past year, I’ve found that the habits that actually stick are the ones that feel doable, not dramatic. They aren’t fancy, but they’re real. And more importantly? They support the life I want to live—energized, outdoorsy, and balanced.
Here are 5 habits I swear by, and how they’ve made a big difference in my health and routine:
1. Daily walks with Woods
This one’s non-negotiable. Every morning (no matter the weather, unless there’s lightning), Woods and I hit the pavement and get 2 miles in around the neighborhood. It’s our quiet time. It helps me clear my head, get some movement in, and soak up a little sunshine before I dive into the day. I naturally wake up around 5:30a and Woods gets anxiety with a lot of cars around, so we’re up and out before rush hour.
It’s not “just a walk”—it’s a ritual that grounds me.
2. Morning hydration + breakfast routine
Before I check emails or grab coffee, I drink a big glass of water, and take my multi-vitamins + probiotic. Then I eat a breakfast that actually fills me up (a protein + fiber + something cozy like oats or eggs).
This one change helped me ditch the mid-morning energy crash I didn’t even realize was from skipping real meals.
3. Prepping meals/snacks in batches—not perfection
Meal prep doesn’t have to mean 12 containers of the same thing. I like to batch-cook a few basics (like roasted veggies, quinoa, grilled chicken, or hard-boiled eggs) and mix and match throughout the week.
It saves time, lowers my stress, and keeps me from reaching for snacks that don’t make me feel great.
4. Getting outside every single day
Even if I don’t have time for a hike, I’ll step outside and stretch, read, or just breathe for a few minutes. Nature resets me—always. And it’s one of the most underrated parts of wellness, in my opinion.
No gym required. Just fresh air and a few quiet minutes with the trees.
5. Unplugged wind-down time
At the end of the day, I shut off screens at least 30–60 minutes before bed. I read, cross-stitch, or hang out with Woods. It helps me actually rest instead of scroll.
Pro tip: I also keep my phone on my dresser, out of my reach.
💬 Let’s trade ideas!
These habits didn’t happen overnight—they were built slowly, with lots of trial and error. And they’re still evolving as my routines shift. But they’ve made a huge difference in my energy, my mood, and how I show up for myself and others.
What’s one habit that helps you feel your best right now? Drop it in the comments or message me on Instagram—I love learning what works for other people, too ❤
Maggie Midwest 
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