Yes, we live in a world where our wellness practices are determined by the interwebs and what the majority of other people are doing. The great thing about that though, is that the moment something new and effective is out in the market, everyone gets to known, and hence can go looking for that particular treatment. Our access to the newest wellness practices, trends or technologies, allows us to choose what we would like to do for ourselves and our bodies. Therefore, in our quest for your wellness and ours, here are the top wellness trends for 2016.
Exercise as a feel-good factor
Exercising is no longer only about losing weight or getting fitter. It’s now more than ever before that exercise is being considered as a positive factor in life, as something that makes you feel good inside and out. A host of trainers are coming up with programs that focus on helping people deal with anxiety, depression, OCD, etc. through exercise, as opposed to focusing on body image and weight loss.
Athleisure is here to stay
We saw the trend of athleisure emerge early this year, with Kate Hudson and the newest crop of supermodels (Kendall Jenner, Gigi and Bella Hadid) being at the forefront. And it shows no signs of slowing down. Major sportswear brands as well as new start-ups are completely cashing in on this trend, with new collections. Plus, more and more non-famous people are stepping out in all their post-exercise or just-felt-like athleisure glory!
Like everything, technology takes over fitness as well
While we’ve been aware of the Apple Watch, the Fitbit device, and even the smart yoga mat for some time now. This year has seen every second person and their grandmother with either a hand-worn gadget or a smart phone app that encourages them to exercise or counts their steps. From what we can see, it seems to be a really effective way to get yourself in shape.
Soups are the new juices
Everyone’s favourite and not-so favourite juice trend may be on the way out to let the newest liquid diet take centre stage – soups! Whether it’s thick and chunky, trendy bone broth or a watery bisque, people are now relying on soup as their go-to liquid source for cleansing, nutrition and weight loss. A lot of new, healthy soup recipes are starting to emerge. Entrepreneurs are also looking to open soup bars and outlets to make this trend more accessible.
Green continues to be everyone’s favourite colour
With new-age wellness and health trends, there will never be a dearth of anything green to eat or drink or rub on your face. Everyone’s favourite green from last year, kale has been joined by some fellow green brethren this year. Seaweed is at its peak, at the moment, for its richness in iodine and minerals that help keep our thyroid glands and metabolism healthy. Then there’s the super antioxidant matcha and protein-rich algae like spirulina and chlorella.
Meditation makes a comeback, and how
Earlier, meditation was closely linked to spirituality and that may have been a slightly fearful topic for some people. The 2016 version of meditation though, puts you and your mind and body health at the forefront. Meditation has been scientifically proven to help brain health and general well-being. Many people are now turning to this mindful practice to help them become centred and get in touch with inner peace.
Fermented is the new fresh
We’re well aware of the health benefits of probiotics and this year continues to promote fermented foods to keep our gut clean. The two Ks, Kimchi and Kombucha (black or green tea that is fermented with bacteria and yeast), are the most popular fermented foods of the year and are easily available or can even be made at home.
Travelling is healthy
Not like we needed another reason to want to travel all the time, but the emergence of hotels, spas, resorts and various travel destinations promoting health and wellness as the focus or an aspect of your holiday is one of our favourite trends this year. You can now travel to an exotic location just to experience the ways of healthy-living they practice there or to hone your already available skills in a beautiful new locale!
