Where to Begin When You Don’t Know What You Need: A Beginner’s Wellness Guide

01/23/26Swanson Staff

Where to Begin When You Don’t Know What You Need: A Beginner’s Wellness Guide

Starting a wellness journey is a meaningful step, but it can feel overwhelming when you’re not sure where to begin. With so many options to choose from, it’s easy to wonder which supplements matter, whether quick fixes exist or what “being healthy” really looks like.

This guide is here to help you move forward with clarity, confidence and a more approachable path to wellness.

Feeling Unsure Is Normal

Starting a new supplement routine might feel really confusing at first. Especially because there is a lot of information out there, and not all of it is easy to digest. The good news is that you don’t need to know everything to get started on the right foot.

Wellness isn’t about perfection or doing everything all at once. It’s about learning, trying small changes and sticking with what works best for you and your goals. When you establish a strong foundation off the bat, it can help take away a lot of guesswork so you can focus on what makes sense for your lifestyle.

Focus on Foundations First

Before diving into supplements, it helps to build a strong base. These foundational habits help establish a baseline of how you feel when you really take care of your body and your health. From there, you can assess which areas you most need to support.

  • Nutrition: Aim for balanced meals with a mix of protein, fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Staying hydrated is just as important and often overlooked.
  • Sleep: Simple routines like consistent bedtimes, limiting screens before bed and creating a calming sleep environment can make a noticeable difference.
  • Movement: You don’t need an intense workout plan. Walking, gentle stretching or trying more active hobbies like gardening all count.
  • Stress Management: Beginner-friendly practices like deep breathing, brief meditation sessions or journaling can help support emotional balance.

These simple wellness steps lay the groundwork, making it easier to understand what your body needs and how supplements might fit in later.

Supplements Can Be Helpful, Not Complicated

Supplements are designed to support healthy habits, not replace them. If you’re learning how to start taking supplements, it helps to think small and simple. Many beginners start with approachable options like a daily multivitamin to help fill nutritional gaps, magnesium to support relaxation and muscle function, or probiotics for digestive health. The goal isn’t to build a long list overnight. It’s to choose one or two options that align with your lifestyle and see how they fit into your routine and build from there.

Ways to Determine What Might Work for You

Choosing supplements doesn’t have to feel overwhelming, and a little reflection can go a long way.

  • Assess your current habits: How’s your diet? Your energy levels? Your sleep and stress?
  • Identify your goals: Are you hoping for more daily energy, stronger muscles or some help with mental well-being or stress levels?
  • Use trusted resources: Educational articles, product descriptions and guides from Swanson can help explain options without so much jargon.
  • Check with a professional: A healthcare provider can offer personalized guidance, especially if you have specific health concerns.

Taking this thoughtful approach helps turn the question “what supplements do I need?” into a manageable next step rather than a guessing game.

Take Small Steps and Build Confidence

Wellness works best when it’s built gradually. Instead of changing everything at once, try focusing on one habit or supplement at a time. Maybe it’s adding a daily walk, improving your bedtime routine or introducing a single supplement.

These small, consistent steps add up when it comes to creating a routine that feels personalized and sustainable.

Swanson Can Guide You Along the Way

If you’re ready to start, we’re ready to help. Be sure to check out our self-assessment guide along with hand-picked selections for beginners by our in-house licensed nutritionist, or reach out to our award-winning customer service team to help you make informed choices with confidence.

 

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Britta Sather, Swanson Health Products

About Britta Sather, LN

Britta Sather is a Licensed Nutritionist with over 14 years of experience in the dietary supplement industry. She has a passion for holistic living and a lifelong belief in natural health practices. Her philosophy is that your health is the greatest investment you’ll ever make, but be sure and enjoy life along the way.