Why Wellness Culture is Toxic
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Wellness culture is the mainstream phenomenon known for promoting ideas, customs, beliefs, values, and lifestyles that promise to benefit and improve oneself. Do yoga, use your phone less, and use these skincare products. Doesn’t it sound like following these tips will change your life? Society desires to live in the world of wellness aesthetics, as we are under the impression that we are doing what is necessary to improve our wellbeing.
The wellness industry has grown into an estimated $1.5 trillion market. We are constantly surrounded by the promotion of this culture, which causes us to strive even further to follow a “healthy” routine. We watch videos posted by our favorite influencers about what they eat in a day or see advertisements for the latest cruelty-free makeup brand on our Instagram feed. The image-conscious version of health that has received much praise is why so many of us take part in acts of “self-care.”
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However, parts of wellness culture, such as romanticizing alone time, are making us anti-social. Purchasing food products that promote “climate friendliness” is actually one of the leading causes of the climate crisis. Overexercising pushes your mind and body too hard and can result in insomnia, fatigue, or muscle soreness. Taking care of your mind and your body is good for the soul, but that isn't up for debate. However, is the culture created by the wellness industry really as trusting and healing as we perceive it to be?
The wellness industry targets two types of people: those who want a real-life change and people who adhere to societal pressures because of what they think they are “supposed” to look like. Whether it’s wanting to lose weight, looking for a way to ease the mind, or hoping for clearer skin, these wellness brands know exactly how to target these groups into buying their products.
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These two types of people have one thing in common: wanting change. Wanting change allows you to be vulnerable. While the superficial marketing of the wellness industry may not hurt those who are in to keep up with the latest trends, it could be detrimental to those seeking real change.
Wellness brands post aesthetically pleasing pictures and videos of food, skincare routines, and yoga poses—you name it. This entices customers into paying for these services in hopes of living a better, healthier life. However, the content that these brands post often promotes unrealistic expectations. This only leads to customers putting more pressure on themselves, which can result in eating disorders, anxiety, obsession, and other psychological issues.
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Certain wellness practices are not bad for you as long as you take them at your own pace without overwhelming pressures. The key is knowing when to lighten up and rest. We must set goals for ourselves that are realistic. The road to achievement is one of learning. The pursuit of health must be a process you actually enjoy so that it doesn’t become burdensome. Once you find balance and acceptance and forget what the wellness industry has falsely promised, you can begin to practice your own genuine wellness culture.
Strike Out,
Writer: Nikki Cohen
Editors: Roxy Rico & Lexi Fernandez
Tallahassee