It can be easy to be swept up in the flurry of ‘new year, new me’ messaging that’s swirling around right now. But now that we’re a few weeks into 2026, this is a good time to avoid the adverts for discounted gym memberships and multivitamins and try and instead take a look at what could be best for your health and wellbeing this year. 

Your health is more than an all-or-nothing project. It’s something you shape gently, day by day, in ways that respect your time, energy and finances.

Why 2026 calls for sustainable health habits

Awareness of mental health and burnout now sits alongside concerns about rising costs and stretched public services. NHS messaging increasingly focuses on early intervention, encouraging you to notice changes in your body or mood before they become harder to manage. 

This has shifted how people approach wellbeing. Instead of chasing extreme fitness plans or restrictive diets, it’s worth focusing on habits that support stability and resilience. 

Everyday behaviours that support better wellbeing

Begin by developing daily routines and patterns that are beneficial for you. 

Sleep is one of the most important areas of our lives that can have the biggest effect on our mood and health. When you keep regular sleep and wake times, your body learns when to release hormones that are good for our mood, focus and appetite, which makes mornings feel less foggy and afternoons more productive. 

Also, find ways to move your body where possible. Try introducing manageable activities, like walking part of your commute or stretching while the kettle boils, to keep joints mobile and ease mental tension. 

Regular meals are vital for maintaining your energy levels. Planning nutritious dishes through the day can help avoid snacking. 

Consider screen use, too. For many of us, we use computers for work, slump in front of the TV at night and scroll our Insta feeds on our phones. But giving your eyes and mind regular breaks boosts concentration and helps to relax your mind. 

Preventative health: Staying ahead of problems

Preventative health focuses on staying informed rather than waiting for symptoms to force you into action. Go for your routine GP appointments, dental check-ups and eye tests so that any issues are picked up early. 

Are your vaccinations up to date? These continue to protect not only you but also the people around you. 

Sexual health also forms part of this wider picture. Look into tests, such as HIV and syphilis tests, which can be part of responsible sexual health monitoring for anyone who is sexually active. 

Preventative steps reduce uncertainty and support long-term confidence in your health.

How to build habits you’ll actually keep

Lasting habits are formed from being realistic. When you start with one achievable behaviour and link it to something you already do, such as stretching after brushing your teeth, the habit feels less like a chore. 

Tracking progress in a simple way can help too. Perhaps add a note on your phone or download a journal app to help you notice any patterns. 

Flexibility matters too. Some weeks will go smoothly, others will not, and health doesn’t disappear because you miss a day. Be kind to yourself and allow habits to bend around your life rather than forcing your life to bend around them.