The meaning of wellness today is far more inclusive than ever. From traditional implications such as healthy eating and exercise, to modern wellness trends like biohacking and crystal healing – the term “wellness” is about as broad as the term “restaurant.” Gastropub or Asian-Fusion?
The Global Wellness Institute defines the term wellness as “the active pursuit of activities, choices and lifestyles that lead to a state of holistic health.”
With such a broad range of subject matter, below we explore a few of the more non-traditional wellness trends of today. Are any of these methods part of your regular wellness routine?
New Age Spiritual Practices:
Wellness today stems far beyond the physical to incorporate emotional and spiritual health. New Age Spiritual practices are surging in popularity. Tarot cards, astrology charts, new moon gatherings, full moon rituals, goddess circles – what was once considered alternative and mysterious is now going main stream in the wellness world. So much so, spiritual wellness practices are becoming a regular offering at fitness studios and wellness centers. It is certainly not outside the realm of normalcy to find a fitness classes, tarot readings and monthly moon circles under one roof.
CBD:
No longer considered taboo, hemp plant products are everywhere – from your yoga studio to the coffee shop you frequent – and boasting a variety of health benefits. CBD, or Cannabidiol, comes from cannabis plants, which is still very much illegal in some states and more widely accepted in others. Unlike THC, CBD is not intended to give the user a sensation of being “high.” Instead, CBD is used by many to treat symptoms associated with anxiety, chronic pain, substance abuse, and more. The FDA does recognize the use of CBD for seizures disorders in children, however research is still preliminary and non-conclusive on using CBD for other healing purposes, including those listed above.
Wellness Tourism:
Travel in the pursuit of wellness is a modern global movement. From tropical yoga retreats to shamanic jungle ceremonies to luxury wellness resorts – mainstream tourists are seeking a healthier travel experience. Wellness travel can refer to an entire travel experience centered around the pursuit of wellness, of which there are many. However, travelers are also seeking ways to incorporate wellness into regular trips as well. From healthy room service options to on-site spa and fitness amenities, business travelers, families and individuals are prioritizing travel options that provide the ability to maintain good health while on the road.
Energy Healing:
Modern wellness is not only focused on physical and emotional health; energetic wellness is also a priority. Reiki, a practice that originated in Japan thousands of years ago, is surging in popularity in the United States. Energy healing is centered around the belief that a life force, or energy field, is present in the body. This energy can be stagnant or blocked as a result of disease, emotional imbalances, trauma, or injury. During an energy healing session, the healer works to restore the natural flow of energy through the patient’s body. The benefits of Reiki cannot be seen, but those who practice energy healing strongly attest to benefits that can be felt.
These wellness trends are a small representation of the many modern wellness practices of today. Some of these modalities are recent developments, while others are ancient practices that have garnered mainstream attention. Some will be lasting; others will fade, only to be replaced by the next trend. The biggest takeaway: Wellness today is not just physical – rather it encompasses the whole being. This, in and of itself, is a modern wellness trend with true staying power.
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