The Wellness Legacy: What Are We Teaching Our Daughters?
- lrosenthall
- May 6
- 3 min read
Hey sis,
Have you ever caught your daughter watching you—not just with her eyes, but with her heart?
She’s paying attention to how you care for yourself… or don’t. She notices when you skip breakfast, speak harshly to your reflection, or push through exhaustion without rest. She hears when you whisper, “I’m fine,” even when you’re clearly not.
More is caught than taught. And sis, she’s catching everything.
That’s why I’m here today with a gentle reminder: Your wellness journey isn’t just about you. It’s about the generations coming behind you.
I know it can be hard to prioritize yourself in the chaos of motherhood, work, and life. But if you can’t do it for you right now—do it for her. Because we always find the strength to show up for our children. Let this be the moment you choose to model something different. Let this be the moment you start building a wellness legacy.
Why It Matters: Your Health Is Her Foundation
Sis, you don’t need a doctorate degree to know that your energy sets the tone in your home—but let’s look at the science for a second.
🔹 Your mental health matters more than you know. Studies show that when moms struggle with untreated anxiety or depression, their kids are more likely to experience emotional and behavioral challenges.¹ You showing up for your peace? That’s emotional protection for her future.
🔹 Your physical wellness is contagious. A 2020 study from Harvard found that children of mothers who practiced 5 simple healthy habits—eating well, moving their bodies, staying smoke-free, managing alcohol, and maintaining a healthy weight—were 75% less likely to become obese.²
So, every walk you take, every balanced plate you make, every time you say “no” to protect your peace—you’re not just making a better day for yourself. You’re literally shaping her health outcomes.
The Power of Tiny Shifts
Here’s something else I want you to know: You don’t need to overhaul your life overnight.
According to the CDC, small consistent actions—like drinking water before coffee, walking 30 minutes a day, or getting to bed on time—can lead to massive improvements in heart health, weight, energy, and longevity.³
And those little choices? They speak volumes to your daughter.
They show her what it looks like to listen to your body. To honor your needs. To put yourself on the list.
Sis, this isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being intentional. Because when you choose wellness—even in small ways—you’re giving your daughter permission to do the same.
So… What Are You Really Teaching Her?
Ask yourself:
How do I talk about my body in front of her?
What does she see me do when I’m stressed?
What habits is she picking up just by being in the room with me?
You are the first mirror she looks into. The way you treat yourself becomes the blueprint she’ll follow.
That’s why I created something to help me, and you pause and reflect—a moment just for us to think about what kind of legacy we’re creating.
This isn’t about perfection. It’s about planting seeds. Every single day you choose yourself, you show your daughter how to do the same. I know you’re tired. I know the days blur together sometimes. But you are doing better than you think. You’re raising a girl who will one day look back and say, “My mama showed me what it looks like to take care of yourself. She didn’t just say it. She lived it.”
Be intentional, slow down and do the work, choose to make wellness your legacy and Make wellness your best accessory!
Your sister in wellness,
Lauren
Your Wellness Legacy Worksheet
This printable worksheet is your space to:
Reflect on the wellness messages you were taught growing up
Decide which patterns you want to break—and which you want to keep
Write your own “Wellness Legacy Statement”
Take on a 7-Day Legacy Challenge with small, powerful habits
👉 Download Your Free Worksheet Here
📚 References:
Pearson RM, Evans J, Kounali D, et al. Maternal depression during pregnancy and the postnatal period and child development: a prospective cohort study. Lancet Psychiatry. 2013;1(4):309-317.
Choi HK, Willett WC, Hu FB, et al. Healthy lifestyle and risk of obesity in children. BMJ. 2020;369:m1849.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Small Steps for Your Health.”
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