The well of physical and mental panaceas, therapies, and services runs very deep; let’s dive into several wellness trends that boast holistic claims and maybe some truth (or not) behind them
Health and wellness trends have been touted and tried for millennia; revealed in ancient texts, glorified in modern magazines, and advertised across the digital media realm. Some trends become everlasting principles; others fade as fads do. Over centuries, how we approach and treat our healthcare and selfcare split into hemispherical factions—Western and Eastern medicine. But now, the phenomenon of embracing multiple health and wellness disciplines is growing. Yin meets yang these days…kind of like the yoga hut in a shopping mall.
Yes, we’re eyeballing the big picture—a holistic wellness vision that crosses cultures. But where to start your own journey toward a healthier you? Let’s outline several current wellness trends and figure out when and where to give them a try*.
Sober-Curious Lifestyles
It’s no secret that during the Covid-19 pandemic, alcohol sales increased significantly as more adults drank heavier than they had previously. And now, it seems, the rebound effect is taking place as more and more adults are exploring sober-curious lifestyles by either eliminating or significantly reducing their alcohol intake. The health benefits of teetotaling are well documented, which include improved organ health (brain, heart, liver, etc.), clearer skin, better sleep, reduced anxiety or depression, and lower risk for several diseases. And now, the best restaurants and bars are on board, offering mocktail menus specifically to accommodate those hopping on this trendy wagon. Gone is the day when declining an alcoholic beverage was considered a social faux pas.
Oxygen Therapy/Bars
Yes, just like the name implies, an oxygen bar is where eager patrons can saddle up and suck down some good, ole element O—concentrated and, even, scented oxygen. Like wine bars of the past decade, oxygen bars are popping up in every major city and trendsetting scene. What’s the claim? Proponents say that breathing concentrated oxygen (at about 40 percent saturation versus the 21 percent air we normally breathe) boosts energy levels, increases endurance, and helps with physical recovery. But the medical community generally disagrees, citing the healthiest of us are already at 100 percent oxygen saturation in our blood when breathing normally. Though doctors see no medical benefit, the medical community may be missing the most obvious benefit of all—folks simply enjoy it, and that be the only reason one needs to give it a try.
Mouth Taping
Remember the nasal strips that we placed across our noses, to open the air passages allowing for easier breathing during sleep? Well, mouth taping is a similar concept, yet a different approach, to improve overnight rest. Mouth taping involves closing your mouth shut with skin-safe tape during sleep, forcing you to breathe only through your nose. The idea is that this lowers blood pressure, filters allergens, regulates the temperature of your breath, humidifies the air you breathe and moisturizes your throat, and decreases anxiety. At least, that’s the claim of proponents, who also say mouth taping avoids dry mouth, bad breath, and sore throat. But according to the Cleveland Clinic, “studies done so far appear inconclusive and the jury’s still out on whether or not mouth taping is beneficial.” Don’t put away your nasal strips just yet.
Waves of Smoother Skin
Brow showing a new furrow? Is there a little crow beginning to perch near the corner of your eye? If you’re beginning to see the early signs of aging and are interested in non-invasive options to roll back your profile picture a year or two or five, there’s good news. Today, ultrasound and radiofrequency skin therapies are becoming common in our local dermatology practices. Though laser therapies remain a popular choice, more and more patients are entering the smoother skin game by choosing the less invasive wave therapies. These therapies, with brand names such as Sofwave and TempSure Envi, send high-frequency (even ultrasound) energy into mid-dermal tissue, heating it, and stimulating the rejuvenation of collagen. This, in turn, reduces wrinkles and offers patients the potential for a more youthful appearance.
Yoga
Though chances are you’ve heard of Vinyasa, Hatha, Ashtanga, or Bikram yoga—and even tried them at some point (maybe you take classes)—there’s an endless amount of yoga types and experiences in this ever-growing body of physical and spiritual practices. “Goat Yoga” was all the rage five years ago. “Cat Yoga” seems to be popular now. And yes, both involve striking your poses with the animals balanced on you…somehow. Outdoor yoga sessions have become increasingly popular—“SUP Yoga” is a hit in our waterfront region, even “SnowGa” is appearing at ski resorts. Specialty sessions at unique locations—e.g., several local breweries offer weekly events—and yoga retreats are, now, omnipresent. In short, there’s no shortage of options to pursue this healthy activity or find an entirely new way to experience yoga.
Shroomin’
No, we aren’t talking about memories of your first or fiftieth Phish concert. Mushrooms—the culinary kind, that is—have been gaining traction in the health and food industries for their unique properties. They offer a combo of health-boosting vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which provide immunity support, the potential to lower blood pressure, and help with weight loss. Plus, their umami flavor tastes great prepared in a variety of cuisines and dishes. Check out the Mushroom Council (mushroomcouncil.org)—yes, that’s a thing—for more information and ideas about how to incorporate them in your diet.
Cannabidiol (CBD)
You’ve likely heard “CBD” a lot lately, and for good reason. Beside the often whimsical takes in the media as a marijuana derivative that can “help you feel better, man,” the truth is…well, that is the truth. Cannabidiol is a prevalent, active ingredient in marijuana, but is derived for our everyday use from Mary Jane’s cousin, the hemp plant (or created in the lab). The subject of many studies, CBD has demonstrated medical uses (notably as an antiseizure treatment) and the potential to help with anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain, and even addictive cravings. Today, all 50 states have laws legalizing CBD with varying degrees of restriction. In Maryland, you can find CBD oils, extracts, capsules, patches, and topical preparations for use on skin readily available at dispensaries, pharmacies, health stores, and, even, the supermarket.
Float Therapy
Itching to get back to an embryonic feeling void of time, space, and circumstance? Maybe you’re looking to treat anxiety, stress, or depression. Float therapy could help both body and mind achieve a full-bliss state. It’s an escape from all distractions—light, sound, and, even, gravity. Sometimes called sensory deprivation tanks, the enclosed float spa is filled with warm water saturated with Epsom salt, which allows the body to achieve full buoyancy. The zero-gravity, completely dark, and soundproof environment has been well researched. Studies have shown that one-hour to 90-minute sessions can offer stress relief, reduce anxiety or depression, relieve headaches, reduce blood pressure, and help improve sleep, among other benefits. Float spas are becoming more prevalent in our local cities and towns. The practice may be worth trying before committing to more conventional or medicinal treatments (as always, consult your physician).
*Healthcare Disclaimer: The article “Holistic Specific!” is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or professional services. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, and those seeking personal medical advice should consult with a licensed physician.
