Is It Really in Your Genes? The Truth About Lifestyle & Wellness
When we hear phrases like “It runs in the family,” it can feel like our health is already written in stone. Genetics absolutely play a role in our wellness—but what many don’t realize is that they don’t tell the whole story.
In fact, research continues to show that our daily choices—what we eat, how we move, how we manage stress, and even the environments we live in—can have a far greater impact on our long-term wellness than our DNA alone.
Your Genes Aren’t Your Destiny
While we’re all born with a unique genetic makeup, many of those genes need the right environment to be expressed. This concept is known as epigenetics—the idea that our genes can be “turned on or off” depending on our lifestyle and surroundings.
Things like:
The foods we nourish ourselves with
How much sleep we’re getting
The way we handle stress
Our exposure to toxins
Movement and connection to nature
...all shape the terrain our bodies operate in.
So while you might carry a genetic predisposition, it doesn’t mean you’re guaranteed to experience illness. Instead, the focus can shift to what you can influence.
Small Habits, Big Impact
Creating a supportive lifestyle doesn’t have to mean overhauling everything overnight. It starts with small, consistent shifts:
Choosing more whole, real foods
Making space for rest and movement
Reducing toxic load in your home
Creating rhythms that support your mental and emotional well-being
Each of these small steps builds resilience over time. You’re not just responding to symptoms—you’re creating a foundation that supports your body and mind every single day.
A Note of Encouragement
This isn’t about blaming ourselves for getting sick—it’s about empowering ourselves with the tools to support our wellness. Genetics may be a piece of the puzzle, but they’re not the whole picture. You have more influence than you think.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to begin, that’s okay. Start with what feels manageable. One shift at a time. Over time, those choices become your lifestyle—and your lifestyle is powerful.
Ready to start making shifts?
Download my free guide, Start Living Well: 5 Simple Shifts for Natural Wellness — a gentle starting point to support your journey.
Disclaimer:
This blog post is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making changes to your wellness routine.
Resources
CDC – Chronic Disease Prevention
Book: Dan Buettner’s Blue Zones research (in partnership with National Geographic and the NIH)
