Small Habits, Big Impact
- Bekah Fogal
- Sep 15
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 18
We often think change has to come from something massive — a total life overhaul, a perfect morning routine, or the latest "life hack." But in reality, it’s the small, consistent habits that shape how we feel, how we move, and how we show up in the world. When we look at health through a holistic lens, we see that nature, movement, and simple daily choices have more power than we often give them credit for.
The Healing Power of Nature
There’s something deeply human about being outside. Sunlight doesn’t just feel good — it’s the body’s natural way of producing vitamin D, which supports bone health, immunity, and even mood regulation. Just 10–20 minutes a day can make a difference in energy and wellbeing.
Salt water and fresh air work wonders too. A swim in the ocean, a walk by the shore, or even time near a lake can calm the nervous system and reduce stress. This is called the Blue Mine Theory. For me, it’s surfing — being in the water connects with something bigger than myself.
Food That Fuels
When we eat foods that come from the ground — fruits, vegetables, roots, whole grains — we’re giving our bodies more than just calories. We’re giving them vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients that help our systems function the way they were designed to.
Modern diets often strip food of these essentials, which is why mindful eating matters. Sometimes supplements can help fill the gaps, but nothing compares to real nutrients from real food.
Movement as Medicine
Walking, lifting weights, stretching, or playing a sport — these aren’t just “workouts,” they’re signals to the body and brain that we’re alive and capable. Exercise increases circulation, supports longevity, and boosts brain health.
The key isn’t doing the hardest or most extreme workout every day. The key is consistency. Small, daily movements add up — whether it’s a 10-minute walk or a full training session.
Real Dopamine vs. Fake Dopamine
Our brains are wired to chase pleasure. But not all dopamine hits are created equal.
Fake dopamine: Scrolling endlessly on social media, bingeing junk food, or chasing quick highs. These give us a spike, then a crash, often leaving us more drained than before.
Real dopamine: Movement, time in nature, nourishing food, meaningful connection, sunlight. These build sustainable pathways in the brain that keep us balanced, motivated, and genuinely happy.
By choosing habits that release real dopamine, we’re not just chasing quick fixes — we’re building a foundation for long-term mental and physical health.
The Big Picture
You don’t need a 20-step routine to change your life. Start with one small habit: step outside in the morning sun, go for a walk after dinner, add one more vegetable to your plate, or turn off your phone an hour earlier.
These small things are actually big things. Over time, they build resilience, energy, and joy. And when you add them all together? That’s when the real transformation happens.
✨ Small habits. Big impact. That’s where the magic is.
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