Wellness

With so many wellness products on the market, it can be hard to know what actually works. The team at CNN Underscored recently rounded up the health and fitness items that made the biggest impact on their daily lives – and they’re not just passing fads. From practical essentials like resistance bands and durable water bottles to big-ticket recovery devices such as compression boots and smart mattress toppers, each product earned its place through consistent use and noticeable results. For some, tools like a water flosser or the Whoop strap encouraged healthier habits, while others found motivation through basketball or even Nintendo’s Ring Fit Adventure. These editor-tested picks highlight how the right product can boost both body and mind. Read the full list at CNN Underscored.

Homeowners are embracing “emotional architecture,” integrating wellness features once reserved for luxury retreats into everyday living. Designers are layering sensory lighting, soundscapes, aroma systems and meditation nooks into homes, alongside nature-first elements like living walls, timber and stone to reduce stress and improve cognitive function. Circadian lighting is moving from high-end to standard specs, while air and water health systems—enhanced filtration, energy-recovery ventilation and VOC reduction—are being built into core infrastructure. Flexible floorplans now include “wellness corners,” yoga alcoves and tech-ready recovery spaces, with shared amenities such as infrared saunas, rooftop gardens and social “third spaces” to combat isolation. Agents say softer greens and blu...

A wellness influencer who recently faced a breast cancer diagnosis has publicly spoken out about her concerns regarding modern health risks, including mobile phone use, chronic stress, and poor sleep habits. Drawing on her personal journey, she questions the impact of everyday technologies and lifestyle factors on women’s health. While scientific research generally finds no definitive link between mobile phone usage and cancer, many in the wellness community continue to debate the environmental and emotional factors possibly contributing to rising cancer rates. Experts agree that chronic stress and lack of sleep may influence overall well-being and could play a role in health outcomes. Her story spotlights ongoing uncertainty and controversy in public health messaging, urging women to re...

As summer rolls across Greater Cleveland, wellness is being reimagined as more than just physical fitness. In a recent column, YMCA of Greater Cleveland president Timothy Hilk urges the community to look beyond treadmills and swimming pools. True wellness, Hilk writes, encompasses mental resilience, emotional balance, social connection, and a sense of belonging—a holistic approach increasingly vital in today’s world. Addressing gaps in access to affordable childcare, mental health resources, and senior support, Hilk highlights how community organizations across the region, including the YMCA, are expanding their missions. Programs now focus on youth development, chronic disease management, and combating social isolation. The YMCA not only provides financial assistance but also delivers ac...

The wellness industry is booming, with trends from seed oils to green powders promising everything from clearer skin to boundless energy. But as psychologist Giulia Suro warns, the relentless pursuit of “optimal health” can quietly shift from self-care to self-surveillance, especially for those prone to perfectionism or anxiety around food. Wellness messaging often surrounds us—via influencers, ads, and social media—making new products seem essential. Yet this constant pressure can erode well-being, leading to rigid behaviors or even orthorexia, a lesser-known condition marked by an obsession with eating “pure” or “clean” foods. Suro urges readers to approach wellness content with skepticism. Watch for extreme language, vague promises, and advice that ties self-worth to dietary disciplin...

As daily life grows louder, hearing protection is stepping into the wellness spotlight. Once reserved for industrial workers and concertgoers, earplugs are now being reimagined as lifestyle accessories. Brands like Loop, Eargasm, EarFab, and EarPeace are leading the way with products that are not only functional but also stylish and discreet, making it easier for people to protect their hearing with confidence. This shift comes as awareness grows about the cumulative effects of noise exposure—from earbuds to open-plan offices and city streets. Yet, despite increased awareness, adoption remains low due to habit, access, and social acceptance. Experts argue that, much like sunscreen, hearing protection should be a routine part of self-care to prevent long-term damage. The movement is gaini...

A new wave of wellness is sweeping through 2024, and it’s called habit stacking. This approach is gaining traction for its simplicity: link a new healthy behavior to an existing habit, making both more likely to stick. For example, after brushing your teeth, you might add flossing, or tack on a set of squats to your morning routine. Experts say the method works because it leverages routines you already follow, reducing the mental effort needed to adopt new habits. Recent research highlights why Australians are embracing this trend—most are struggling to meet basic health benchmarks in diet, exercise, and sleep. By starting small and building on what you already do, habit stacking offers a practical way to boost energy and well-being, even for those with busy schedules. For m...

Feeling overwhelmed by the idea of refreshing your daily routine? According to Marie Claire, small, intentional changes can make a big impact on your mood and wellbeing. Their guide highlights five key wellness rituals: starting your day with a meditative morning routine, indulging in a luxurious skincare regimen, practicing five-minute mindfulness, moving your body, and embracing aromatic haircare rituals. From swapping your morning doom scroll for energising breathwork and nature walks, to taking time for gratitude journaling and endorphin-boosting exercise, these rituals bridge the gap between mind and body. Even a sensorial hair-wash routine using aromatherapy oils can help wash away stress. For more details and product recommendations, read the full article at Marie Claire. Start you...

Digestive health is increasingly recognized as a foundation for overall well-being, influencing everything from nutrient absorption and immune defense to mental health. The gut is home to about 70% of the body’s immune cells and produces serotonin, a neurotransmitter vital for mood regulation. Disruptions-caused by processed foods, chronic stress, antibiotic overuse, or dehydration-can lead to issues like bloating, fatigue, and chronic conditions such as IBS. Simple daily habits can support a balanced gut microbiome: eating fiber-rich foods, including probiotics, staying hydrated, and managing stress. These steps not only aid digestion but also boost energy, immunity, and mental clarity. To learn more about the science and practical tips behind maintaining a healthy gut, see “The Vital Ro...

In a world where burnout is the norm and stress is ever-present, experts say the key to true wellness is learning to slow down-without guilt. Health coach Dr Prarthana Shah emphasizes that wellness is “daily maintenance, not damage control,” urging people to tune into their bodies and minds before problems arise. Rather than piling on more self-care tasks, the focus should shift to what genuinely works for you. Simple changes-like pausing before checking your phone, savoring a cup of herbal tea, or spending a few minutes outdoors-can help restore energy and clarity. Building small breaks into your day, saying no to draining commitments, and being present with one task at a time all contribute to a healthier, more balanced life. Remember, rest is not a luxury; it’s essential for both menta...