Forget the mainstream, 2020 is all about alternative wellness, embracing everything from crystals to light therapy in the name of self-improvement, healing and stress relief. In fact, experts predict that multidimensional wellness will take the lead in the new decade, inspiring people to look at mental, physical and emotional wellness in search of a more peaceful, healthier lifestyle. Ready to dive in? Here are five ways to get a head start on 2020.
Luxe Sleep
Sleep has become big business for Americans in the past few years and it’s not slowing down. Mindbody app (mindbodyonline.com) recently conducted a wellness index study that showed 28 percent of people are now using sleep apps while companies such as Casper and Purple and lulling consumers to sleep with non-toxic mattresses and bedding. Also on deck is the rise (and return) of the nap. Forward-thinking offices are installing “nap pods” for a midday refresh and nap bars like The Dreamery in New York allow for a quick pit stop in one of their “nooks.”
Experiential Wellness
Consumers are foregoing expensive equipment in favor of wellness experiences such as spa visits or wellness festivals and conferences. Those looking to expand their horizons via travel aren’t out of the loop. The Mindbody index showed that 30 percent of travelers “book fitness, beauty, or wellness services at least half of the time they’re away from home.” Keep an eye out for more and more fitness retreats such as surf or yoga camps as well as a jump in high-level wellness offerings from hotels, resorts and airlines.
Chickpeas
Yes, the humble chickpea gets the kale treatment in 2020, thanks to its being a rich source of vitamins, minerals and fiber. Pasta disrupter Banza (maker of all things chickpea) recently secured $20 million in funding and has plans to enter the food service industry, while food aisles will soon be filled with everything from chickpea ice cream and chocolate-covered chickpeas to snackable puffs, dessert hummus and cookie dough.
Emotional Wellness
Health takes a turn inward as mindfulness and emotional work takes center stage in more and more fitness and health classes. In addition to online therapy options like TalkSpace, which makes talking to a professional easy and affordable, the Journey app helps channel thoughts and feelings into visuals in the form of work, travel, dream or even gratitude journals.
Shorter Workouts
Pushing yourself to the limit in 50-minute classes is taking a backseat to short and sweet fitness. Online options for 10-, 15-, or 20-minute workouts are charging ahead, with Instagram favorites like Melissa Wood (melissawoodhealth.com) and Obe (obefitness.com) as well as streaming services like Peloton and Aaptiv offering quick hits for the time challenged. For those more into the group workout, a new breed of studio is cropping up, allowing drop-ins to benefit from classes that begin every 10 minutes and feature 10-minute blocks of targeted stations.