Soft Wellness: A Gentle Approach to Well-Being
For over a decade, Well+Good has reported on the latest trends in wellness, helping to shape the conversation. In recent years, two contrasting paths have emerged within the wellness spectrum: ‘softcare’ and ‘hardcare.’ While soft wellness focuses on nurturing practices, akin to a cozy weighted blanket on a rainy day, hard wellness emphasizes rigorous tracking and optimization of health.
Understanding Soft Wellness
Soft wellness promotes gentle, introspective practices that often reject the hustle culture prevalent in today’s society. Activities such as yoga, journaling, and meditation are celebrated within this realm. According to a survey from the National Institutes of Health, the number of individuals practicing meditation more than doubled from 2002 to 2022. Furthermore, with a projected revenue of $5.1 billion in 2024 from meditation apps, it’s clear that this approach has gained significant traction in the wellness community.
The Role of Community in Soft Wellness
Licensed mental health counselor Joan Choi emphasizes the importance of these practices, stating, ‘These practices can help us make space to return to parts of us that are often neglected.’ Engaging in activities that prioritize presence and joy is essential, allowing individuals to breathe and reset without the influence of metrics.
Hard Wellness: A Focus on Metrics
In contrast, hard wellness relies on hyper-optimization, encouraging individuals to track their health meticulously. This approach is characterized by the rise of wearable technology and health screenings that provide detailed insights into biological markers. Dr. Mark Hyman highlights that many are seeking empowerment in their healthcare choices, stating, ‘Health care is failing. We have a disease-care system, not a healthcare system.’
The Critique of Hard Wellness
Though appealing, critics argue that excessive diagnostic testing may lead to adverse health outcomes. Nonetheless, the desire for agency in managing one’s health is undeniable, particularly following the revelations brought to light during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Combining the Approaches for Optimal Wellness
As the wellness landscape evolves, individuals need not choose between soft and hard wellness. By integrating practices from both ends, one’s approach becomes more balanced. Whether tracking fitness metrics or indulging in mindfulness practices, leveraging both can yield a comprehensive and fulfilling wellness journey.
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