Is it just me, or does it seem like the older we get, the more we need to focus on health? Now that I’m in my mid-30s, I’m feeling things I never felt 10 or 20 years ago! I have a tight neck, a nagging pull in my lower back, and knees that prefer walking over running! I consider myself a relatively active person. I make sure to get 30-50 minutes of physical activity every day (cardio, weight training or HIIT), Monday through Friday. But it feels like that’s no longer enough. I need to do more for my body.

I’ve made 2024 the year to focus on my health in a major way. I even have the following journal affirmation: “My body is a temple that I cherish.” I write it down daily. As I get older, I don’t keep the focus on the same things I’ve always done. Sure, daily workouts and morning journaling helps, but it’s time to go above and beyond. Future Me needs more!

I’ve given a lot of thought to some of the new healthy routines I want to implement. Not only will these routines help me foster a healthier relationship with my body, but it’s my way of showing myself some love. Loving myself means loving my body. Loving my body means doing things that make me the healthiest and happiest person I can be!

One of the ways I plan to show my body some love is by making sure I don’t sit for too long throughout the day. This is especially important for those of us who work at a computer most of the day. Our bodies are not designed to be sitting for so long. I’m beginning to notice the impact that sitting has on my hips and back— even after my daily workouts! I have added a notification on my Apple Watch that reminds me to stand every hour. I have a goal of getting in 12 standing hours per day.

Unfortunately, hourly standing alone isn’t going to be enough for me. Remember that nagging pull in my lower back I mentioned earlier? Well, after doing some research, I found out that my lack of stretching could have something to do with it. So, I’ve been doing certain lower back stretches and they’ve been helping. Along with my hourly stand sessions, I plan to stretch my legs, hips and back. I can’t see myself working without a computer anytime soon, so this healthy habit is a must for me. I’m showing my body I love and care for it by doing things to help it feel better.

Another way I plan to show my body more love is by avoiding processed foods. I read an article that said 60% of the calories that Americans consume daily is from processed foods. Processed foods are full of artificial ingredients and preservatives, plus they lack vital nutrients. If it sounds like I’m giving a scolding… I am—to myself. I’m very guilty of consuming processed foods more frequently than I’d like to admit. I’ve gotten better about cooking (at least once a week) and eating those leftovers, but when I hit the fast-food drive-thru or whip up a 5-minute microwave meal, I’m doing the opposite of showing my body love!

Not until very recently did I start paying attention to the ingredients in the foods I buy and consume. No more foods, drinks and snacks with preservatives, additives, or bioengineered ingredients! While I’m not planning on going full organic (yet), I am making a valiant effort to consume natural, whole foods.

In the past, loving my body meant only appreciating it when I lost extra pounds. Healthy living meant focusing solely on the number reflected on the scale. No more. Now, loving my body means treating it with respect, treating it like a temple that I cherish! Healthy living means fueling my body, mind and soul with things that make me the happiest, healthiest version of myself.

How will you prioritize loving yourself and loving your body?