As I look ahead to 2026, I’m not setting goals rooted in pressure or perfection. I’m choosing intentions that feel energizing, supportive, and genuinely exciting. This year isn’t about doing more — it’s about doing what helps me feel strong, well, and fully alive.
Being the Most Fit I’ve Ever Been
Fitness for me this year is about strength, consistency, and feeling capable — not exhaustion or extremes. I want to feel strong enough to support my life, my work, and the adventures I love.
My approach to movement is simple and sustainable:
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Practicing Lagree 3–4 times per week to build slow, controlled strength
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Walking my dog Copper 2–3 miles a day, giving me daily movement, fresh air, and nervous system regulation
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Prioritizing recovery and consistency alongside strength
Even these simple, daily habits add up over time — consistency truly creates lasting change.
I also encourage experimenting until you find movement you truly enjoy. Years ago, I was gifted a ClassPass membership, which let me try different studios and workouts without commitment. That exploration ultimately led me to the studio I’ve been going to consistently for over six years. When movement feels supportive — even fun — consistency becomes natural, not forced.
Take a moment to ask yourself: What types of movement make you feel alive? 2026 is the perfect year to explore and prioritize them.
Creating the Healthiest Gut Microbiome I’ve Had in Over 20 Years
Gut health has been one of the most meaningful parts of my healing journey. In 2025, I completed in-depth functional medicine labs, which gave me clear insight into my gut microbiome and hormones. That clarity allowed me to move forward with intention rather than guesswork.
Going into 2026, I’m focusing on optimal health by supporting my gut and nervous system together. My approach includes:
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Eating a no- to low-grain, low-sugar diet, avoiding processed sugars, and emphasizing whole, organic, locally grown foods
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Supporting gut dysbiosis by drinking my Gut Repair tea daily for a month — small rituals like this make supporting your gut feel approachable and consistent
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Prioritizing nervous system regulation and minimizing stress
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Continuing EMDR therapy to release stored trauma and support deeper healing
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that healing happens more easily with clarity and support. In-depth functional medicine labs can provide that insight, and if you’re curious about exploring this approach, I’m happy to share a trusted referral.
Making Space for More Fun in 2026
Alongside strength and gut health, one of my biggest goals for 2026 is simply to have more fun. Joy, play, and laughter aren’t extras — they’re essential for our nervous system, gut health, and overall well-being.
This year, I’m intentionally making space to:
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Spend more days outdoors — hiking, camping, or soaking up the sun
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Move in ways that feel playful, energizing, and fun, not just disciplined
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Connect with friends and community, sharing laughter and experiences
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Explore activities that bring true childlike joy, the kind that makes you forget time and just feel alive
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Allow spontaneity, curiosity, and lightness to guide parts of my day
Fun doesn’t have to wait until everything else is “perfect.” It’s part of the process, part of healing, and part of feeling fully alive. When we make space for joy, movement feels lighter, our nervous system feels calmer, and our bodies thrive.
In 2026, I’m committing to joy as a form of health — and inviting you to do the same. Here’s to a year where strength, balance, and joy flow together — a year where health feels supportive, sustainable, and genuinely fun.
Happy 2026,
Ashley, Owner Nature's Medicine Shop
