The Vitality Report
As someone who has (and continues to) navigate health challenges, I’ve come to understand how much of what we consume—whether it’s food, media, products, or even clothing—can influence our physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Health and wellness has become the cornerstone of my success, which is why prioritizing certain habits is essential. Although, I will note, you do not need any fancy, expensive products or a twelve step morning routine to achieve a healthy lifestyle. Before adding anything into your life, focus on quality sleep, some sort of daily movement, eating whole foods, getting sunlight and finding hobbies or interests that are fulfilling. I think we often forget how important these simple, tangible steps are. Afterall, the goal is balance, so each product or habit you incorporate has to be personalized and practical. What might work for me, won’t necessarily work for you. With that being said…here are some of my favorite health hacks that have literally changed my life!
I would be nothing—and I mean nothing—without my vitamin stack. It took a few rounds of bloodwork, some doctors, and lots of appointments to get it right, but I think I’ve finally nailed it. That said, this is really personalized to me, so I’ll just share my top two, which I think could benefit almost anyone! First up, vitamin C, which I notice a difference with almost instantly. I personally use the Cymbiotika Liposomal Vitamin C. The "liposomal" part just means it’s in liquid form, making it easier for your body to absorb and deliver the vitamin where it’s needed most. Vitamin C is essential for growing and repairing tissues—think skin, bones, teeth, cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. For me, it’s a major hack for glowing skin and has helped keep my eczema in check. Plus, it helps your body absorb iron and protects against damage caused by free radicals (unstable atoms that can cause damage to cells), which can contribute to aging, heart disease, cancer and arthritis. Personally, I also notice a difference in my energy levels and immune system. That’s because vitamin C helps produce L-carnitine, an amino acid that converts fatty acids into energy and supports your mitochondria (aka the cell's energy powerhouse). It's also key for your adrenal glands, which control your stress response. Sooo cool, right?
Next up in my stack is L-glutathione, a powerhouse antioxidant produced by the liver that supports a ton of bodily functions. L-glutathione is made from amino acids—glycine, cysteine, and glutamic acid—and it plays a huge role in immune function, detoxification, and protecting against oxidative stress. It can be especially helpful for those dealing with autoimmune issues. Given the world we live in, full of toxins and pollutants, L-glutathione is like a shield for your body, protecting against free radicals, peroxides, and heavy metals, while also helping to flush out things like drugs and pollutants. As for skin, it’s a real game-changer—it can help reduce wrinkles, fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and more.
One of my new favorite gadgets is my red light therapy panel. Red light and infrared light offer a ton of benefits, from improving skin health and promoting muscle recovery to helping with pain relief, regulating your circadian rhythm, fighting aging, reducing stress, boosting hair growth, and supporting metabolic health, just to name a few. The recommended usage varies depending on the panel, but generally, 3-5 sessions of 20 minutes a week can make a noticeable difference. I love using my red light therapy after I shower—it's best to do it on bare skin since heavy products can block absorption. I typically will use it while I’m getting ready or winding down for the night. It’s so easy to habit stack with things like stretching, working out, reading or anything else you have one your list to accomplish! For me, my favorite habit stack is dry brushing while doing my red light therapy. Dry brushing is a technique that involves using a bristled brush to massage the skin to help improve circulation and stimulate the lymphatic system. It is also a great natural exfoliant!
Alright, here is a hack that cost nothing, so no excuses—PUT THAT PHONE DOWN! I know, it’s so much easier said than done, and we all know you are going to bypass the timers you set. So, my best piece of advice is finding hobbies that make you forget your phone. For me, I have gotten into reading, writing and cooking! I also think its sooooo rude to bring your phone places like the dinner table or out in the middle of a conversation. There’s nothing more inconsiderate than pulling out your phone when you should be giving someone your full attention. To avoid this, I leave it in another room or inside my bag. Engage in meaningful conversation, make memories and be an engaged listener. And seriously, can we bring back some basic social etiquette and keep the phones away while dining out? (This will probably be a whole article in itself.) I know its frustrating and disappointing when others don't follow suit, but don’t let that steer you away from doing the right thing for you and your relationships. Leading by example usually speaks louder than anything else!
Lastly, I just finished Mel Robbins’ book Let Them, and let me tell you—JUST let them. This book (and podcast) has really reminded me that the only thing I can control is myself. Once you accept this, it becomes simple: do what you can do and do it to the best of your ability. I’ve always lived by the mantra , “How you do anything, is how you do everything.” So, control what you can, and do it well, with grace. Everything else? Just let it be. You’ll save yourself so much time, energy and emotional stress—and you’ll be a better human for it. It’s a lot easier said than done, but we’re all works in progress. And remember, YOU are the greatest project you’ll ever work on, so don’t hesitate to restart, realign, and refocus whenever you need to. (And seriously, go read or listen to the Let Them theory)
At the end of the day, just eat whole foods and put that phone down. Discover your passion and let it consume you. Live boldly, love loudly. Never stop learning. And most importantly, have fun.
With Love,
Ana xx
