Simple Habits for Better Health

“My job as a physician is to share my knowledge, explain all the options, and work with each patient to find what’s best for them. We’re here to work with you and help you reach your health goals.” — Dr. Bennett Haley, MD at Washington Health Institute

Healthy living doesn’t have to mean making dramatic changes overnight. According to Dr. Bennett, a family medicine physician at Washington Health Institute (WHI), small, consistent habits can have a lasting impact on your physical and mental well-being.

Dr. Bennett Hailey, Primary Care Provider at Washington Health Institute (WHI)

Dr. Bennett Hailey, MD, Primary Care Provider at WHI

Dr. Hailey cares for patients at WHI’s Price Medical location near Dupont Circle in Silver Spring, Maryland, and brings extensive experience in managing chronic conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. His approach to care focuses on prevention, education, and partnering with patients to create personalized health plans.

Move Your Body Every Week

One of Dr. Haley’s most important recommendations is to make exercise a regular part of your routine. “People hear it often,” he says, “but it’s worth repeating because it works.”

He recommends:

  • 20-30 minutes of exercise that raises your heart rate, five to six days each week
  • Strength or resistance training two or three times per week

Regular physical activity doesn’t just strengthen your heart – it can also improve mental health, memory, energy levels, and overall quality of life.

Don’t Underestimate The Power of Sleep

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NIH), sleep plays a vital role in good health and well-being throughout your life. During sleep, your body is working to support healthy brain function and maintain your physical health.

In today’s busy world, sleep is often one of the first things we sacrifice. Dr. Haley encourages patients to make healthy sleep habits a priority.

Quality sleep gives your body time to recover, supports a healthy immune system, and provides the energy needed to take on the next day. Consistently getting enough restful sleep is one of the simplest ways to improve your overall health.

Healthcare Should Be a Partnership

Dr. Haley believes that best healthcare decisions happen when patients and providers work together.

Rather than simply telling patients what they should do, he takes time to explain their diagnosis, discuss every available treatment option, and help them choose the plan that best fits their goals and lifestyle.

“As physicians, we bring medical knowledge,” he explains, “but every patient is different. What works for one person may not be the right solution for another.”

Removing Barriers to Better Health

Another important part of Dr. Haley’s philosophy is helping patients overcome obstacles to care.

Whether it’s understanding treatment options or navigating access to specialists, he believes education and communication help patients make informed decisions and stay engaged in their healthcare journey.

Your Health Goals Matter

At WHI, the focus is on caring for the whole person –not just treating a condition.

“We’re here to work with you,” Dr. Haley says. “We want to understand your goals and use our knowledge and experience to help you achieve them.”

Building healthier habits doesn’t require perfection. Small changes –moving more, sleeping better, and staying connected with your primary care provider –can make a meaningful difference over time.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Whether you’re due for your annual wellness exam, managing a chronic condition, or looking to establish care with a trusted primary care provider, Dr. Bennett Haley and the team at Washington Health Institute are here to help.

📅 Schedule your appointment today
🌐 www.dc-whi.org
📞 (202) 525-5175