The Triangle of Health | Part 1

Your Best Year Yet: Stop Struggling & Start Thriving

Discover the 3 Simple Changes to Transform Your Health in 2025


Dr. Aaron Hartman

January 7, 2025

Triangle of Health Intro

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    The Triangle of Health: Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4

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    Why Are We Stuck?

    Imagine feeling exhausted despite doing everything “right.” You’ve tried diets, exercise routines, and supplements, but nothing clicks.

    That frustration—maybe your frustration—is something I’ve witnessed in thousands of patients. The answer often lies in three overlooked factors: Gut, Stress, and Sleep. These three form what I call the Triangle of Health, the foundation of our well-being. Your body was designed to heal itself. If it’s not healing, something’s in the way. The Triangle of Health helps clear those roadblocks.

    Since our original article in 2023, we’ve introduced dozens of science-backed resources to help you tackle these core areas. Today, let’s revisit how these three elements can help you unlock your body’s potential to heal.


    Your body was designed to heal itself. If it’s not healing, something’s in the way. The Triangle of Health helps clear those roadblocks.


    The Energy Triad: Gut, Stress, & Sleep

    Why do Gut, Stress, and Sleep deserve this spotlight? Think of them as interconnected levers: when one is off, the others suffer too. They’re not just obstacles; they’re opportunities for transformation.

    Gut: Your Energy Engine

    Your gut doesn’t just digest food—it regulates your immune system, mental health, and even energy levels. Did you know that 90% of your serotonin and 50% of your dopamine are made in your gut? If your gut isn’t thriving, neither are you.

    Tip: A healthier gut isn’t just about what you eat—it’s about how you eat. Slow down, chew, and enjoy meals without distractions.


    Stress: Silent Saboteur or Secret Weapon?

    Not all stress is bad; in fact, it helps us grow. But chronic stress? That’s a slow poison affecting your hormones, immune system, and gut health. Imagine a low-grade “drip, drip, drip” of stress disrupting your body’s healing systems daily?

    Tip: Self-regulation practices like mindfulness or simply stepping into nature can reframe stress into growth.


    Sleep: Your Body’s Reset Button

    Ever feel like sleep is a luxury you can’t afford? It’s not—it’s non-negotiable. Sleep helps detoxify the brain, regulate hormones, and even stabilize blood sugar. Skimp on it, and the entire Triangle of Health crumbles?

    Tip: Prioritize sleep hygiene. Small steps like reducing screen time before bed or creating a regular sleep schedule can make a huge impact.


    Take the First Step Toward Renewed Energy

    Your health isn’t just a list of symptoms; it’s an interconnected system. By addressing Gut, Stress, and Sleep, you’re not just surviving—you’re thriving. And the best part? You don’t have to go it alone.

    You were made for health. Let’s help you achieve it—together.

    Ready to dive deeper?

    Start with the foundational post on Gut Health, and explore our guides on Stress Relief and Better Sleep.

    We’ve Updated Our Popular Food Sourcing Guide

    • Food Sourcing Principles
    • Local Sourcing Options for Central VA
    • Non-Local Sourcing Solutions & Principles

    And we’ve added it to our FREE micro course “Real Food Diaries.” Register for the free course to access the updated guide.