It’s been Blue Monday again, that magical, mythical day where we all apparently rush to book our summer holiday – but that was all made up, a marketing ploy, to get us to book the holiday.
But that said, there is something about this point in January where the shininess of the new year is less gleaming and the winter with dark nights still feel firmly in full swing. In my ongoing quest to live well and banish blues any day of the week, I’ve been exploring some of the emerging wellness trends for 2026. I’m usually a little sceptical. But I have to say, I kind of love them, well most of them anyway.
01
Cultural workouts – touted by The Times to be the next best thing to boost our wellness. Recent research has shown that visiting galleries can reduce stress and boost our immune system. I’ve been taken on cultural workouts since I can remember, not sure I can describe those events as good for anyone’s wellbeing (with either me or a sibling moaning non-stop). I’ve visited national trust properties galore, been taken to see ancient ruins and ostentatious palaces on every family holiday (except for Disney!). I used to moan and groan and felt like I was missing out on some all important sunbathing but now I’m quite partial to a bit of culture. I’m all in – the question is where to visit?
02
Paper – this one I loved when I read it, I love putting pen to actual paper for my journalling practice. I am also planning to launch my first journal to the world this year and what better reassurance than the fact we are reverting to paper and away from tech. And, although this needs to be seen, one article focused on the return of snail mail and sending/receiving cards through the post as a way to boost wellbeing. I somehow cannot get to grips on the wasteful nature of cards, yet they are so lovely to receive. Such a thoughtful thing to send a card, even lovelier to receive. The best bit, putting pen to paper boosts focus (my word of the year) and helps memory.
Shop Papersmiths for a fab selection of unique cards and journals.
03
Cardio is set to make a come back – I love running more than any other exercise I do. Its amazing for the heart and also helps me personally reduce stress. I know I need to do strength training to help me as I age and more so because of my cancer induced menopause, but give me running every day of the week. I’ve also love dance workouts – a great cardio exercise but good for the brain too. Even if my favourite type of exercise is back in fashion, forget trends, moving our bodies in ways that boost us matters most.
04
Tech abstinence (going analogue) – my word of the year is focus and already I’ve seen the benefits of leaving my phone in another room. The absolute productivity is unreal – powering through my to-do list easily. I recently heard someone talk about ‘Intermittent phone fasting’ – I love this idea. Lock the phone away, be present and immerse yourself in whatever you’re doing. I can see this trend growing.
05
Connection – Its one of the most important things for our wellbeing and longevity – to have connection. It helps improve mood and gives us a sense of belonging. Community and connection are set to be one of the biggest wellness trends according to Harpers Bazaar – I know my midlife friends are all talking about connection and clubs. I’m part of a dance club, and I’ve just joined a knitting circle. Plus, as part of my work with Menopause and Cancer, we’ve launched Community Support Sessions with connection in mind, because its so cathartic to meet people to share, learn and support each other.
Click to find out more about Menopause and Cancer Community Support
06
Contrast therapy – I’ve already got sucked into this trend and have set myself a goal to have an outdoor sauna at least once per month, and it looks like I’m set to exceed it in January alone. Contrast therapy works by switching the body between heat and cold, which supports circulation, calms the nervous system, and often leaves us feeling clearer and more energised. The best bit is, you can do it from the comfort of your own shower – just switch from hot to cold intermittently. A wellness boost every single day!
And then there are the usuals – diet and gut health – fibre is the new protein (protein remains important), eating a variety of plants, and generally adopting a healthy diet is essential….I think we’ve got that message.
The same goes for sleep – I say this with caution, because while we know how important it is, a full night’s sleep isn’t always realistic for everyone. A good night’s rest can be restorative too.
And then there are the ones I don’t think I’ll be getting involved in:
Individualised supplements are apparently the way forward. I think I’ll stick to my healthy diet.
Dating but not on an app. Dating but the opposite of who you would normally chose. I’m not sure I will try either – but never say never.
And as I type, I’m travelling back to the motherland and will participate in a cultural workout when I’m there. Oh and I’ve just booked a holiday – it is Blue Monday after all!
Which wellness trends will you try?
