McKinsey & Company’s Future of Wellness survey reveals six categories that consumers believe to encompass, or define, wellness: health, fitness, nutrition, appearance, sleep and mindfulness. That may sound like a lot to focus on all at once, but because wellness is an individual experience, you get to define what it looks like for you. Here are a few tips and trends for this new year.
Hello friluftsliv
Pronounced free-loofts-liv, friluftsliv refers to the Nordic concept of getting outdoors and spending time in nature. Offering mental, physical and emotional health benefits, the value of spending time in greenery (or going for a dip in the big blue) can’t be overstated, especially for office types who spend hours on end in front of a screen.
Breathing right
It’s a weird one, alright, but taping your mouth closed when you go to bed forces you to breathe in and out of your nose. Sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised at the number of people that breathe through their mouth, effectively missing out on the benefits of nose breathing, including improved snoring.
Pump up the protein
Nothing packs a punch like protein. The snag is that we typically don’t get enough of this powerful macronutrient. Whether you go for animal, plant or alternative options, pumping up your protein intake will mean increased energy, metabolic function, musculoskeletal health, hormonal balance and other benefits.
Micro workouts
Squeezing exercise into random moments throughout your day helps you achieve more movement and build on your efforts with much less pressure.
Undrinking yourself
If you tend to consume quite a bit, you might benefit from exploring a ‘sober curious’ lifestyle and going for alternative drink choices (have you heard of adaptogenic drinks?) as you seek to partner with your body for health and wellness.
Mental health moments
Be proactive in nurturing your heart and mind, even if it means doing what doesn’t come naturally, i.e. being open and vulnerable about where you’re at and what you need help with, either with a trusted someone or an appropriate healthcare professional.
Healthy adulting
Last but certainly not least: go see your doctor. Annual visits and routine screenings are essential to maintaining the health from which your wellness springs, including that prostate cancer check you keep avoiding. Regular check-ins are a preventative measure that could save you from any cholesterol, blood pressure and weight troubles that may be lurking in the future.
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