How To Have A Practical Wellness Reset for the New Year

But what if we approach it a little differently this time? Instead of constantly challenging ourselves to do more every year, what if we just choose wisely?

Wellness isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey. What works wonders for someone might not suit another’s body or lifestyle. Dr. Vipada Sae-Lao, Nutrition Education and Training Lead for Asia Pacific, Herbalife, provided approaches on how to personalise resolutions that align with the basics but suit one’s lifestyle, energy and pace. It’s time to step into a healthier, more balanced version of yourself.

The saying "Prevention is better than cure" is more relevant today than ever before. 92% respondents in the region echoed this sentiment, identifying preventive health as a top priority in the recent Herbalife Asia-Pacific Responsible Supplementation Survey.

Contrary to popular belief, investing in your health doesn’t always require a dramatic overhaul. This can be as simple as choosing to be mindful of portions instead of not eating that lechon at all. In fact, the smartest health investment is adopting consistent, healthy habits and science-backed solutions that keep your body resilient. A balanced, nutrient-rich diet, movement you enjoy, restorative sleep, adequate hydration, and effective stress regulation are essential elements of sustained wellness.

Prevention is, after all, giving your future self the healthiest possible head start.

Your body thrives when you give it what it needs, rather than what the latest trend says you should follow.

Start with structuring a diet that reflects your unique metabolism, dietary needs, health goals, and cultural preferences, and can be built into your daily routine. A nutritious meal combines high-quality lean protein, healthy carbohydrates, essential fatty acids, fibre, vitamins and minerals, and a variety of antioxidants - needed for sustained energy, repair, and overall wellbeing. 

Stay adequately hydrated, manage your stress with practical strategies, and support your gut health through fibre-rich foods, probiotics, and mindful eating. Think of it as being in tune to what your body needs – one mouthful at a time.

It is also important to pair that with movement you enjoy and can stay consistent with, because exercise should energise your body, not drain it. A 2019 report from the World Health Organization (WHO) mentions how 93.4% of Filipino adolescents were physically inactive. In addition to movement, prioritising quality sleep and rest is also necessary, as they play a critical role in metabolism, hormonal balance, and recovery.

As you start personalising your health routine, it’s helpful to view supplementation in the same light. The recent Herbalife survey highlighted a point many of us can relate to - while 80% of people in the region accepted that they take supplements daily, many expressed a lack of confidence in choosing the right ones.

The 2023 National Nutrition Survey (NNS) revealed how Filipinos across all age groups do not consume enough to meet their Recommended Energy Intake (REI). Additionally, intake of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C is low across nearly all age groups, resulting in many individuals failing to meet their daily nutrient needs.

The best way to supplement is exactly what the word means, ‘fill the gaps your diet can’t always meet’, and don’t just take the thing everyone is talking about. Consulting a health professional or a qualified nutritionist can help you pick science-backed, high-quality formulations from trusted sources to support your energy, immunity, and boost your daily functioning. When supplements are chosen intentionally, they become a meaningful part of your personalised wellness plan.

A recent survey conducted by The Social Weather Stations (SWS) found that 34 percent of Filipino adults experience stress “frequently” daily.

The fast-paced lifestyle that most of us lead often means extended work hours, irregular eating patterns, increased responsibilities and expectations, and high digital exposure.

Unmanaged and prolonged stress has a significant impact on biological systems within the body — including immune response, gut function, metabolic efficiency, and cortisol regulation.

Incorporate simple stress-management practices such as meditation, periodic breaks during work, an evening wind-down ritual, consistent sleep routines, and seek professional help when needed.

Studies show that stra ong family and community network is a key factor for longevity and happiness in Blue Zones. So, cultivating strong personal relationships and being part of supportive communities are powerful ways to stay committed to your wellness routine, while buffering the physiological effects of daily stress.

Lastly, a bit of support can make it much easier to monitor your progress, and that’s where easy-to-use tools can help simplify a busy lifestyle. Whether it’s apps that track steps, sleep patterns, meal composition, and water intake or even self-management devices that measure key health parameters recommended by your healthcare provider, many practical options are just a click away. 

When used consistently, these user-friendly tools provide clarity, structure, and small nudges that make healthier choices more sustainable for the long term.

“So, this year, let’s keep it your path to long-term health straightforward - focus on the fundamentals, stick to routines that fit your lifestyle, and get regular check-ups. Changes do not have to be loud like the firecrackers we hear the moment the countdown turns zero for 2026. New year is about attracting not just prosperity but also good health,” ended Dr. Sae-Lao.

Similar stories: