Healthy Habits

Discover CHPS, your partner in wellness. Through personalized assessments, guided WELL Journeys, coaching, screenings, and engaging events, we help you develop and sustain healthy habits that build lasting health, resilience, and well-being.

Habit Formation

Understanding the small actions that shape your health

What is a Habit?

A habit is a behavior we repeat regularly, often without thinking. Some habits, like brushing your teeth or looking both ways before crossing the street, support health and safety. Others, like grabbing coffee on the way to work, stem from convenience. Habits are mental shortcuts that help us conserve energy and make decisions quickly. They begin as choices and become automatic through repetition.

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Why Do Habits Matter?

Daily habits shape long-term health. Small actions like choosing water over soda, taking the stairs, or sticking to a bedtime, may seem minor, but they add up over time. Healthy habits reduce the risk of chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity, and they support mental well-being by improving mood, energy, and emotional balance. Unhealthy habits, even subtle ones, can gradually lead to serious health issues. By building habits that support both body and mind, we become more resilient and better equipped to handle life’s challenges.

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The Science of Habit Formation

Small, consistent actions create lasting change in health and wellness

The Power of Small Steps

Big change starts with small actions. Simple choices, repeated daily, lay the foundation for lasting habits.

Triggers and Cues

Habits stick when tied to routines. Linking a new action to an existing cue—like stretching after brushing your teeth—makes it automatic.

Consistency Over Perfection

Progress comes from repetition, not perfection. Staying consistent matters more than doing it flawlessly.

Reward and Reinforce

Celebrating small wins reinforces positive behaviors, helping new habits become part of your lifestyle.

Top Habits

Top 4 healthy habits you can build on today

Building healthy habits creates long-term benefits—boosting energy, reducing stress, preventing disease, and strengthening overall well-being. The best part? Small, consistent steps can turn everyday choices into lasting routines. Let’s explore practical ways to introduce these habits into your life.

Physical Activity

Regular movement benefits everyone, regardless of age or ability. It improves sleep, reduces anxiety, strengthens the heart and immune system, and lowers the risk of chronic diseases.

Tips to get moving: 
  • Start small: Try 10–15 minutes of walking or stretching.
  • Link activity to a daily cue (e.g., walk after lunch).
  • Choose activities you enjoy.
  • Celebrate milestones with non-food rewards.
  • Track progress to stay motivated.

Nutrition

Nutritious eating supports immunity, bone health, digestion, and disease prevention. It also helps maintain a healthy weight and energy levels.

Tips for healthier eating:
  • Reflect on current habits using a food journal.
  • Identify triggers for unhealthy choices and plan alternatives.
  • Add more fiber: fruits, veggies, whole grains, legumes, nuts.
  • Stay hydrated with water throughout the day.
  • Aim for colorful plates- each color offers unique nutrients.
  • Try simple swaps: water over soda, beans over fatty meats, oil over butter. 

Sleep

Sleep restores the body, strengthens the immune system, and supports heart health. It also regulates hunger hormones and helps manage weight.

Tips for Better Sleep:
  • Stick to a consistent sleep schedule.
  • Keep your bedroom cool, quiet, and relaxing.
  • Create a calming bedtime routine.
  • Limit screen time before bed.
  • Avoid caffeine late in the day.
  • Support sleep with regular exercise and a balanced diet.

Mental Well-Being

Mental health affects how we think, feel, and act. It helps us manage stress, connect with others, and find purpose. Poor mental health can impact physical health and daily functioning.

Tips for Mental Wellness:
  • Notice stress triggers and physical/emotional responses.
  • Use a journal to reflect and identify patterns.
  • Practice relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation.
  • Take breaks from news and social media.
  • Spend time outdoors and connect with loved ones.
  • Cultivate gratitude daily.