8 wellbeing trends predicted to be big in 2025
Wellbeing in 2025 will see the rise of digital detox retreats, sound healing and community connections to boost our mental health.
The start of a new year feels apt to make meaningful changes to old habits, attitudes and mindsets, especially when it comes to wellbeing.
Not sure where to begin? We asked the experts to share the biggest trends for 2025, plus advice on how to make them stick beyond January. Keep reading for all you need to know:
1. Cold water therapy
Cold water therapy might be rooted in ancient medicine, but its resurgence in modern wellness routines means it's not going anywhere.
According to Google data, searches for "cold therapy" are up by 121% as people continue to take the plunge. Trips to Iceland are also on the rise as travellers head to sites like Silfra Fissure in Thingvellir National Park for cold water swimming.
"Cold therapy mentally stimulates the secretion of endorphins-commonly referred to as 'feel-good' hormones-and can provide a feeling of mastery and hardiness once the initial pain has been overcome," says Dr Sham Singh, a psychiatrist.
"A state of shock after being exposed to cold lends a new sense of clarity and awareness that often reduces stress and helps regulate our mood. Prolonged cold therapy can increase, over time, our hardiness and tolerance for stress – be that physical or mental – and provide long-term positive effects on the emotional resilience of a person."
There is science to back this up, too. Previous research published in The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (2012) analysed cold water immersion and found it can reduce muscle soreness following intense physical activity.
Meanwhile, another study found that individuals who took cold showers daily for 30 days experienced a 29% reduction in sick days.
2. Digital detox retreats
Digital detox retreats don't just calm a frazzled mind; they reclaim your attention from devices and offer sweet respite to your body.
As technology consumes more of our time, the demand for digital detox retreats is skyrocketing in 2025.
"These retreats offer a chance to completely disconnect from screens and immerse yourself in nature," says Zara Hiridjee, an AFN nutritionist, health coach, and founder of Flourish with Zara. "These retreats often incorporate mindfulness practices like yoga, meditation, forest bathing, and journaling, with group activities designed to encourage human connection.
"The science is clear — excessive screen time is linked to increased stress, anxiety, and reduced focus. Retreating into nature and stepping off the grid allows your brain to reset, lowers cortisol levels, and improves overall wellbeing."
3. Biophilic design
In recent years, biophilic design has emerged as a transformative approach to creating more sustainable living spaces. Now a hallmark of modern homes, this design philosophy offers a solution that enhances wellbeing, reduces stress and fosters a sense of harmony.
"In 2025, biophilic design will take centre stage. People are not just visiting nature. They're integrating it into their daily lives," says Deepak Shukla, CEO of Wellness in Italy.
"Wellness spaces are evolving into green sanctuaries that nurture mental health while promoting sustainability. Forest bathing, outdoor yoga retreats, and eco-conscious architecture are becoming staples of modern wellbeing."
4. Regenerative wellness
Regenerative wellness is big news for 2025. A mindset that promotes wellbeing for people and the planet, Deepak says it's about "growing produce at home, participating in local restoration projects, and embracing eco-friendly lifestyles" that all become central to our wellbeing.
"Regenerative wellness is also gaining traction. This approach encourages individuals to go beyond sustainable practices, focusing instead on regenerating the self and the planet."
5. Connection and community
"In 2025, the spotlight is on connection. As humans, we're hardwired for relationships, but the modern world often makes genuine connections harder to find," continues Zara.
"Loneliness has been called an epidemic, and studies show it can have the same impact on health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Combine this with the rise of AI, the increasing dominance of social media, and the isolating effects of remote work, and it's no wonder people are feeling more disconnected than ever."
Connections can be just as important to physical and mental health as exercise and healthy eating.
Group-based activities like cooking classes and hiking groups are reconnecting people through shared experiences, while many holiday retreats are prioritising group activities like communal meals and collaborative workshops.
"People are craving real, meaningful relationships—not just networking or small talk. We're seeing a shift toward activities that encourage authentic interaction."
6. Making time for solitude
Solitude may seem unnatural for those with busy lives, but research from the University of Reading found that more time spent alone is associated with lower stress levels.
"Solitude really is the essence of holistic health. By helping you ground yourself, it calms your nervous system down and brings your attention to whatever discomfort is currently preventing your wellbeing, whether that's physical, mental, or emotional," says Sarah Jones St John, Energy Healer and Founder of London Wellness Members' Club Grey Wolfe.
"That quiet and calmness sparks clarity and can be used as a tool to prevent future diseases and illnesses, simply by tapping into what sits at your core. If you haven't already, consider including moments of real, uninterrupted solitude into your day, and experience your wellbeing improve in the most natural, organic way."
7. Sound healing
Sound healing — a powerful therapy that combines different sounds and music — is on the rise. Google searches for "sound healing" tripled between July 2020 and July 2024, while the sound therapy market is expected to expand at a growth rate of 25% this year.
"Sound healing is growing in popularity because people are increasingly exploring alternative and holistic approaches to wellbeing, seeking nervous system reset and improved mental health without relying on medication," says Madeleine Jago, Principal Clinical Psychologist and co-founder of Seven Lion Yard.
"There is a growing emphasis on preventative mental health care which involves stress reduction and holistic self-care. Unlike some wellness practices, sound healing does not require prior training or physical effort so is accessible to people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities."
8. Mindful exercise
And finally, low-impact mindful exercise will take precedence in 2025.
"Walking has wonderful benefits for the mind and body. Whilst walking might not be the most strenuous form of exercise, it is certainly an effective way to strengthen the muscles in your legs," says Penny Weston, a fitness, nutrition and wellness expert.
"I think low-impact exercises will continue to go from strength to strength as we go into 2025."
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