Recently, my TikTok feed has been brimming with wellbeing trends, each promising benefits from lower stress levels to a boosted immune system. I tend to be sceptical about wellness fads, believing that moderation and common sense are key to feeling our best. For me, that means exposure to nature, moving my body, eating well, taking time for self-care, and spending time with loved ones. But in the interest of journalism, I’ve recently been incorporating six of the top wellness trends on social media to see their effects on my overall wellbeing. Here’s what I found…
Dry Body Brushing In The Morning
Dry body brushing is nothing new. It’s actually an ancient Ayurvedic practice, but recently I’ve seen it repeatedly on TikTok’s ‘get ready with me’ morning routines. Naturopath and Nutritionist Rhian Stephenson explains, “Dry brushing in the morning encourages the flow of lymph, boosts circulation, and exfoliates dead skin cells. Because of this, it can help us de-puff, clear congestion, and reduce the appearance of cellulite while contributing to overall lymphatic health and wellbeing.”
I spent a few minutes before hopping in the shower using a brush in upward motions toward my heart. Not only is it a great way to exfoliate, but the stimulating action also helps boost blood flow, making you feel instantly energised.
Try Hydréa London's collection of Body Brushes.
Trying An Infrared Sauna Blanket
Infrared therapy is used for deep tissue warming, pain management, and enhancing relaxation and sleep. It works by emitting infrared heat that penetrates deeper into the tissues, warming the body from the inside out to support the recovery process. But short of renovating a home sauna or joining an expensive gym, it can be hard to commit to regular sessions and really reap the benefits. Which is where infrared sauna blankets come in. "Sauna blankets took off because of their portability to bring a spa experience into your home and with you while travelling,” explains Lauren Berlingeri, co-founder at HigherDose. “Most consumers can't afford to install a full-size sauna in their homes, so sauna blankets are a fantastic solution to help the masses stay committed to a consistent wellness routine."
So does infrared therapy work from home? I spent 15-minutes in my HigherDose Infrared sauna blanket a couple of times a week and noticed almost instant benefits. It helped soothe my muscles after a particularly hard workout and definitely helped me sleep better. Plus, you can relax and watch TV while reaping the wellbeing benefits which feels like you’re hacking the system! While it’s expensive and not the most inviting place to be on a hot summer evening, it’s a great way to boost your wellbeing from home.
Shop HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket here.
Journaling Every Day
Journaling before bed has been a game-changer for me. Taking just 10-15 minutes to jot down my thoughts, reflect on my day, and plan for tomorrow has significantly improved my sleep quality and mental clarity. Research backs it up too. Studies (like this one) show that just 15-minutes of journaling three times a week can help manage anxiety. This simple habit helps declutter my mind, reduce stress, and set a positive tone for the next day. Plus, it's completely free. I light my NEOM Perfect Night’s Sleep Candle and scribble down any thoughts before bed – allowing myself to completely switch off once I’ve closed the pages.
Using Ice Facial Rollers
As a beauty editor, I’m no stranger to ice facial rollers. These are usually used within facial treatments as a cryotherapy tool to soothe, reduce puffiness, and aid in lymphatic drainage. Celebrity facialist Abigail James says, “I’m a huge fan of cryotherapy and have used ice rollers in treatment many times over the years. They create vasodilation of the vessels, which increases blood flow and floods nutrients to the skin. They’re great for brightening and offering a temporary tightening as muscles contract – amazing for pre-event.”
Incorporating the practice at home helps me to feel energised in the morning. I keep my rollers in the fridge and spend a quick five minutes while my coffee is brewing to roll over my eyes and face in upward and outward motions. While the effects don’t last all day, there’s definitely an instant de-puffing and refreshing effect, and it’s also genius if you suffer from hay fever. Pair with a quick mist of NEOM Big Day Energy Facial Mist, and you’re good to go.
Shop Botanics Facial Ice Rollers here.
Drinking Electrolytes
When we drink water, we hydrate our body but we also dilute the levels of minerals in our system. Adding electrolytes back into our body (either in the form of a liquid, gel, or powder) can help keep us sufficiently hydrated, aid muscle contraction, and regulate the nervous system.
I’ve been taking electrolytes for a few months now and am a big fan. I take the Artah Health Cellular Hydration powder, but there are plenty of great formulas out there. I instantly feel more energised, and I notice (via my Whoop, a wearable tech device) that my sleep is much better when I have taken electrolytes the day before.
Shop Artah Health Cellular Hydration powder here.
Giving Blue Mind Theory A Go
Have you heard of Blue Mind Theory? It’s the idea that being near, in, on, or under water can make you happier, healthier, and more connected. There’s growing evidence to support it too. The calming effect of water is something I’ve always loved, and after seeing posts about Blue Mind Theory on TikTok, I made it a point to spend more time by the water. Whether it's a trip to the beach, a walk by the river, or just a long bath, I found that incorporating more "blue mind" moments into my life has a profoundly positive impact on my mood and stress levels. Now I just have to move to the coast…