Table of Contents
Introduction
2023 is set to be the year of the wellness warrior, as we redefine our approach to achieving good health – both mental and physical. However, not all trends are created equal. To help you reignite your passion for wellness in 2023, we have gathered advice from leading industry professionals in the UK across beauty, fitness, and healthcare. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the wellness trends that will dominate the year, focusing on a holistic approach, inclusive solutions, and the most impactful health topics in 2023.
Top Trends At A Glance
Here is a quick overview of the wellness trends that will take center stage in 2023:
- Sleep syncing
- Women’s wellness
- Gut-brain connection
- Incidental exercise
- Matcha makeover
- EMDR therapy
- Gender inclusive beauty
- Facial yoga
- Digital detox
- Mushroom stacking
Now, let’s delve deeper into each trend and explore the health topics that will shape 2023.
Sleep Syncing
In 2023, getting a good night’s sleep will be a top priority. A study by Direct Line Life Insurance revealed that a significant number of UK adults are sleep deprived, with only 29% getting the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep each night. Lack of sleep can have detrimental effects on our health, including weight gain and insulin processing issues.
To combat sleep deprivation, the trend of “sleep syncing” will gain traction. This approach focuses on adjusting our diets and nighttime routines to support better sleep. Holland & Barrett, a health food shop, predicts that circadian eating – switching from heavy evening meals to lighter afternoon meals – will become more popular. Additionally, new sleep aid ingredients like glycine will be incorporated into bedtime skincare routines. Furthermore, a digital detox before bed will be encouraged to avoid nightmares and promote restful sleep.
Women’s Wellness
In recent years, there has been a push to break the stigma surrounding women’s health and wellness. In 2023, this movement will gain even more momentum, with a spotlight on conversations across various media platforms. Women’s wellness will become big business, focusing on breaking taboos and addressing broader health issues such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and fertility. Nootropics and adaptogens will make their way into products to support menstrual health, reflecting the growing awareness and demand for women’s wellness.
Gut-Brain Connection
2022 saw the rise of discussions surrounding gut health, with TikTok users sparking conversations about tummy troubles. In 2023, this trend will continue to flourish, as more people seek ways to nurture their gut health. The gut-brain connection will take center stage, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach to maintaining good health and preventing disease.
The gut is often referred to as the “second brain” because of the extensive network of neurons lining it. This enteric nervous system produces more serotonin, the “happy hormone,” than our actual brain. The chemical messages that pass between the gut and the brain are influenced by the gut microbiome, which consists of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Taking steps to positively influence the gut microbiome through lifestyle choices and the ingestion of beneficial substances will become even more important in 2023 and beyond.
Incidental Exercise
Finding time for exercise can be a challenge in today’s time-poor society. However, in 2023, the trend of incidental exercise will continue to grow. Incidental exercise refers to small bursts of activity throughout the day that can be incorporated into daily routines. It offers similar health benefits to longer workout sessions but can be more easily integrated into everyday life.
Simple examples of incidental exercise include getting off the bus a few stops earlier and walking, increasing walking speed, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, or doing squats while waiting for the kettle to boil. Investing in a mini-trampoline and doing mini-bounces throughout the day can also be a great way to incorporate incidental exercise into your life and reduce stress.
Matcha Makeover
In 2023, coffee will take a back seat as matcha, a Japanese superfood green tea, becomes the morning energizer of choice. Switching from coffee to matcha can help reduce stress, manage anxiety, and boost the immune system. Unlike coffee, which can cause hormonal imbalances and energy crashes, matcha releases energy over a longer period, providing sustained focus and preventing sudden crashes.
Matcha is also rich in antioxidants, which support the immune system and help prevent seasonal colds. Its calming effects, attributed to the amino acid L-Theanine, make it an ideal choice for promoting focus and concentration. As a result, matcha will see increased popularity as a healthier alternative to coffee in 2023.
EMDR Therapy
Mental health has gained significant attention in recent years, leading to reduced stigma and increased access to mental health treatments. In 2023, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR) will become a prominent wellness trend. EMDR is a therapy that works at the emotional level, particularly for deep-rooted problems related to trauma, low self-esteem, anxiety, dysfunctional relationships, and persistent low mood.
EMDR therapy has a strong evidence base and is recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) in the UK. It offers a flexible approach to addressing emotional issues and can complement other therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). As the demand for effective treatments for mental health issues continues to rise, EMDR therapy will gain further recognition and popularity in 2023.
Gender Inclusive Beauty
In 2023, the beauty industry will witness a shift towards gender inclusivity. Gendered marketing will take a back seat as brands focus on developing products that target specific concerns relevant to all genders. Skincare and beauty will become more problem-targeted, addressing issues such as breakouts, pores, and irritation. This inclusive approach aims to make everyone feel welcome and included in self-care, breaking down gender barriers in the beauty industry.
Facial Yoga
Facial yoga, also known as face yoga, will continue to gain popularity in 2023. This wellness trend involves a routine of massages and exercises that stimulate the muscles, skin, and lymphatic system in the facial area. Facial yoga aims to relax facial muscles, alleviate tension, and reduce the visual signs of stress and worry.
While facial yoga can have a positive effect on lymphatic drainage and reducing fluid buildup, it should be noted that it may not have the same tightening effect as medical procedures or advanced aesthetic treatments. However, for those who prefer non-invasive methods, facial yoga can be a valuable addition to their skincare routine.
Digital Detox
The increasing dependence on electronic devices has led many individuals to reconsider their relationship with screens. In 2023, the digital detox trend will gain momentum as people become more aware of the impact of excessive screen time on their well-being. Studies have shown that the average Brit spends around 11 hours per day looking at screens, and this trend has only increased during the pandemic.
A digital detox involves taking intentional breaks from screens and limiting screen time. This trend will be fueled by the growing awareness of the negative effects of excessive screen time, increased celebrity endorsements of digital detoxes, and companies offering off-grid retreats for employees. Embracing a digital detox can have numerous benefits, including reduced stress, improved sleep, and enhanced focus.
Mushroom Stacking
Medicinal mushrooms will continue to make waves in the wellness world in 2023. These functional mushrooms have been praised for their various benefits, from combating burnout to boosting libido. Mushroom stacking, the combination of different medicinal mushrooms with adaptogens and antioxidants, will be a popular trend in 2023.
This trend explores the synergistic effects of combining specific medicinal mushrooms with other beneficial substances. As more research uncovers the uses and benefits of mushrooms, we can expect to see an increasing variety of mushroom stacks on the market, catering to different health concerns and goals.
Conclusion
In 2023, the wellness landscape will see a shift towards holistic approaches, inclusive solutions, and a focus on both mental and physical health. Sleep syncing, women’s wellness, the gut-brain connection, incidental exercise, matcha makeovers, EMDR therapy, gender inclusive beauty, facial yoga, digital detox, and mushroom stacking will be the leading trends shaping the year. By embracing these trends and prioritizing our well-being, we can achieve a healthier and more balanced lifestyle in 2023.
Note: This article has been rewritten to match the original structure and formatting. The information provided is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or professional advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized recommendations and guidance.