Two F words don’t have a place in my vocabulary, especially regarding overall health and wellness. I’m talking about “Fitness Fads.” Those words, when combined, are nothing but a recipe for disaster.
You're probably thinking, why am I so cynical? Well, I’ve been around this fitness block a time or two, and I stand firm in my belief that when it comes to your well-being, your fitness, your mental and physical health, and all the things you do to better yourself, there is no room for any fad.
Why? Because a fad is nothing but a trend, and trends come and go. Most fitness fads over-promise and under-deliver, guaranteeing quick results in record time. And while it’s true that you may see results from a quick fix, you have to keep in mind that it’s just that: A quick fix. The effects often disappear the moment you start following a regular pattern or lifestyle again.
Here’s the thing: It doesn’t hurt to try something new, and it doesn’t hurt to explore, right, because not every trend is necessarily alarming. The trick lies in knowing which ones may serve you while understanding that others are just a gimmick. SO. Since I’m knee-deep on this hill, I feel like it’s my duty to help you uncover and decipher the top health and wellness trends of 2023, which ones may benefit you, and which ones you should lace up your shoes and run far away from.
The Recovery Revolution: Embracing Sleep Hygiene
One trend I CAN get on board with this year is prioritizing recovery. It’s easy for all of us to fall into the hamster wheel of life, where we get so busy that all we can focus on is rushing through our to-dos to get to the next thing. But when we can take time to fully rest, recover, and recharge, not only are we receiving physical benefits, but we’re prioritizing our mental well-being, too. I love adding at least one full rest day to my week where I don’t exercise, I don’t work, and I don’t focus on a never-ending to-do list.
Another huge part of this is focusing on sleep, and that’s where the “Sleep Hygiene” trend comes into play. Sleep Hygiene refers to setting a nighttime sleep routine and sticking with it. It’s all about going to bed at the same time each night, waking up at the same time each morning, and removing distractions that may prevent you from falling asleep. This involves not allowing electronics or work in your bedroom and putting the phone down at least 30 minutes before bed.
Navigating Unrealistic Challenges
A trend to consider avoiding this year is anything around unrealistic challenges. Now, you know I love a good challenge. I even host multiple challenges per year! But any challenge that tells you you need to restrict yourself or add crazy expectations that are difficult to maintain daily and day out should be off-limits.
Living a healthier lifestyle should be all about finding what’s simple and doable for you, not following a crazy set of rules that makes life more hectic and leaves you feeling more stressed at the end of the day. If your upcoming challenge feels too drastic or difficult to maintain, ditch it and go for something more feasible.
This season should be about making fitness fit. Find ways to incorporate healthy habits into your daily routine, be mindful of steps, and pay attention to your body and what you are fueling it. You don't need a short-term, fad diet to get results.
Embracing the Alcohol-Free Lifestyle
Another massive trend with many health benefits is the Alcohol-Free Trend. You’ve probably heard of Dry January, but wellness influencers and TikTokers around the globe have come together to start posting more about not drinking when they’re out with friends.
Whether you’re ready to jump into this trend or want to focus on reducing your alcohol intake, knowing and understanding how your body utilizes and digests alcohol is a great place to start. Limiting anything that stands in the way of your happiness, physical and mental health, and goals should be evaluated. Aim for everything in moderation.
Except FIZZ. That can be consumed in excess. One thing I am working on this year is reducing my alcohol intake and swapping for mocktails. Fizz is a great mocktail option for going out, consuming a low-calorie beverage, and not feeling like you're missing out.
Cold Plunge Craze: Separating Hype from Reality
I’m sure you’ve seen someone on the ‘gram climbing into a nice cold bath filled with ice cubes, and you probably thought, “Are they NUTS?!”
While this latest trend may seem a little out there, the truth is that cold water therapy has been around for centuries. Also known as cryotherapy, it’s been used for treating various ailments: Pain, injury, inflammation, and even some cancers.
Cold water exposure has also been found to boost circulation and reduce inflammation, which helps speed up the recovery process from exercise while also releasing chemicals in the brain that positively boost your mood. It’s not for the faint of heart, but if you feel you can tolerate a little chill now and then, this may be a trend worth exploring.
So, there you have it. The good, the bad, and everything in between regarding wellness trends for 2023. Which trend will you be jumping on the bandwagon with, and which will you be leaving behind?
Until next time ...
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