Trends in the Field of Mind-Body Wellness

Today's blog, inspired by my new studies at VCC  [You can learn more on their facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/VCCSchoolOfInstructorEducation/] —I'll be talking about some of the trends I've discovered in the field of Mind-Body Wellness.

The field of mind-body wellness can encapsulate a wide range of modalities. Based on my experience I am speaking of the areas of psychology, holistic nutrition, yoga, mindfulness, life coaching, and the intersection of spirituality and science. 

In an article by  Margo Badzioch, a Market Research Lead  [Source: https://www.mindbodyonline.com/business/education/blog/wi/7-wellness-trends-watch-2022]
She shares that "Mental health was ranked the most important dimension of wellness by the greatest number of Americans."

When I hear that, I am happy that mental health is seen as increasingly important. I believe taking care of our mental fitness is as important as taking care of our physical fitness.

Furthermore, more people are talking about trauma-informed practices being integrated in all aspects of wellness from trauma informed yoga, to teaching in a trauma-informed manner (https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/health-and-wellness-trends)

I've noticed in the College I work at, classes are taught from a trauma-informed lens, and both life coaching and counselling are taught through a trauma-informed lens. When I teach yoga, I teach from a trauma-informed lens. This can even mean giving options, and giving permission, and recognizing that some things may not feel safe for somebody that has experienced trauma or somebody that may have PTSD or c-PTSD, thus by being trauma informed and approaching wellness through the lens allows for a more inviting and inclusive environment for all, with the hope to create more safety and a sense of space, freedom, and acceptance.

Another unfortunate trend in the field of mental health/wellness is that since covid 19 there has been higher rates in adolescents facing mental health issues. The school closures and constant changes took a toll, and there is a need to address the mental health of youth https://www.facetsjournal.com/doi/10.1139/facets-2021-0078  Although there is a lot of opposing views on whether lockdowns and mandates were appropriate, we cannot negate the damaging mental-health effects it caused, and it is important to give space time and care to meet the mental health needs of those affected, particularly youth 

Additionally, another trend in mental-health is that more services are being offered online at an increased rate since Covid began, and according to The American Psychological Association - this trend is here to stay (https://www.apa.org/monitor/2021/01/trends-online-therapy)

Although the regulated profession of psychology has more privacy rules than unregulated professions such as coaching, it used to be an emerging trend to see clients online. I used to see clients on Skype before Zoom became popular! However in the last few years, I have found from my experience too that the trend to go online became more and more accepted, which in my mind allows for more freedom and flexibility in how people get the support they are looking for.

Overall, the trends of increased interest in importance of mental health is a step in a positive direction. I am inspired to be part of creating more learning and support in the field of mind-body wellness and learning more in the years to come. Additionally, the trend towards trauma informed is a positive one that I hope continues to spread across other industries, and the trend towards online is something I am prepared for, as I enjoy being able to work remotely.

This blog was written as part of a class assignment for VCC, in this journey of returning to the classroom.

A recap of Sources used in this blog:
https://www.mindbodyonline.com/business/education/blog/wi/7-wellness-trends-watch-2022
https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/health-and-wellness-trends
https://www.facetsjournal.com/doi/10.1139/facets-2021-0078
https://www.apa.org/monitor/2021/01/trends-online-therapy

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