As 2025 comes to a close, many people are reflecting on the small changes that have shaped their health routines over the past year. The health team at Business Insider has compiled a list of effective strategies that have proven beneficial for muscle gains, gut health, and overall well-being. These nine tips are simple enough to incorporate into daily routines without requiring drastic lifestyle changes.
Breathing Techniques for Stress Relief
One of the most impactful changes reported is the use of breathing techniques to unwind. Jennifer Beck Goldblatt, Senior Editor for Health & Parenting, shared that taking a few deep breaths before bed has significantly reduced her stress levels and improved her sleep quality. This practice not only calms the mind but also prepares the body for rest, allowing for a smoother transition into the next day’s challenges.
Ginger Tea for Digestive Health
Another effective addition to daily routines is the inclusion of ginger. Gabby Landsverk, Senior Health Reporter, has found that incorporating ginger into meals and beverages has greatly enhanced her digestion. From fresh ginger tea to grated ginger in soups, this versatile root has helped her maintain gut health while enjoying her favorite spicy dishes.
Reducing Screen Time with Phone-Blocking Devices
Midway through the year, Julia Pugachevsky, Senior Health Reporter, purchased a phone-blocking device designed to minimize distractions from apps. By limiting access to email and the internet during non-work hours, she has been able to focus more on productive activities such as reading and exercising, leading to increased happiness and productivity.
Air Fryers for Healthier Cooking
The introduction of an air fryer into her kitchen has transformed meal preparation for Kashmira Gander, Senior Health Editor. Initially dismissed as a tool for reheating frozen foods, she discovered its potential for cooking nutritious meals quickly. From protein pancakes to perfectly cooked vegetables, the air fryer has streamlined her cooking process and made healthy eating more accessible.
Morning Walks to Boost Energy
With her children now on the same school schedule, Conz Preti, Deputy Editor for Parenting & Health, has taken advantage of her mornings by incorporating walks into her routine. This simple act has not only provided her with fresh air and sunlight but has also helped maintain her mood and energy levels, especially during the darker months associated with seasonal affective disorder.
Waking Up Without Hitting Snooze
In March 2025, Kim Schewitz, a Health Reporter, committed to waking up with her first alarm. This change, though challenging at first, has led to more stable energy levels and improved mood throughout her day. The decision to stop hitting the snooze button has been a small but transformative step in her morning routine.
Pelvic Floor Therapy for Core Strength
Pelvic floor physical therapy has emerged as a key practice for Mia de Graaf, Deputy Executive Editor for Health & Features. This therapy not only aids in core control and breathing but also offers benefits for digestive and sexual health. After just one session, she learned effective exercises to enhance her workouts and overall well-being.
VO2 Max Testing for Improved Running
Understanding her running capabilities through a VO2 max assessment has revitalized Julia Pugachevsky‘s fitness journey. By learning to incorporate different heart rate zones into her workouts, she has seen significant improvements in her speed and endurance, transforming her running routine from mundane to exhilarating.
Taking Breaks to Restore Motivation
Lastly, Kashmira Gander found that taking regular breaks from exercise helped her overcome a fitness slump. Acknowledging that motivation can fluctuate, she embraced a more relaxed approach to fitness, allowing herself to recharge and gradually return to regular routines, including Saturday morning runs with her neighbor.
These health hacks highlight how small, manageable changes can lead to significant improvements in well-being. As individuals look forward to the new year, these insights provide practical strategies for enhancing physical and mental health in 2026 and beyond.
