Wellness is big. It represents a growing industry increasingly dedicated to helping us feel good, and enhancing our health. As with all industries it likes its reports and predictions, the identification of trends.
It also has its gurus and pioneers who have been making their own tick lists for the coming year. This, following a visit to the Global Health Summit in St Andrews, where last year, The Future of Wellness Travel 2025 report was launched, is my own list of health habits and indulgences to help you face the coming year, and find a healthier you. 1.
Reading Yes, you saw that right. Just reading. Ideally a print book, but it doesn't have to be.
Every year, the podcaster and writer Gretchen Rubin, on her Happier podcast, suggests an annual challenge. This year, it is to read for at least 25 minutes every day in 2025. And, she says, “listening to an audiobook counts”.
Her recommendation says a lot about the growing body of research showing that reading is good for our health and mental wellbeing. (Image: Seven Shooter) Last year, the Scottish Book Trust even published a blog titled, 'How reading improves your mental health and wellbeing'. Among the benefits it lists are “reduces psychological stress”; “improves theory of mind”; “develops resilience and well being for older people”.
2. Longevity through community The wellness industry is big on longevity and the talk these days is about healthspan, rather than lifespan. Recently there has been a lot of foc.