We’ve been scouring the internet for the hottest wellness trends of 2024 and we’re sharing some of our favourites with you. We all know that taking care of ourselves is important for staying happy and healthy, but here's the twist: these trends go beyond a fleeting buzz. Think of them as little hacks for a longer, happier life, recommended by the experts. So, why not explore something new in the coming year? 

1. Brain Health

In today's high-performing world, we're always looking for ways to boost our mental sharpness and productivity. A growing trend in the health and wellness scene that offers a solution to this is the use of nootropics. These are substances designed to enhance cognitive functions like memory, creativity and motivation.

So, what are nootropics?

Nootropics are substances crafted to boost mental abilities. They include various natural and synthetic compounds believed to improve cognitive function, increase mental endurance and stimulate creativity and learning.

Examples of nootropics range from familiar ones like caffeine and L-Theanine (found in tea) to Rhodiola Rosea and synthetic compounds such as Modafinil and Racetams.

The popularity of nootropics stems from their potential to improve mental performance. In our fast-paced and competitive world, the ability to stay focused, remember information and sustain productivity is highly valuable. As a result, nootropics are becoming part of the routines of students, entrepreneurs, athletes, and professionals who seek an extra boost.

Users often report benefits such as increased concentration, better memory recall, lower anxiety and an overall sense of mental clarity. Adding to their appeal is the fact that many nootropics come from natural sources, aligning with the increasing consumer preference for organic and natural wellness products. Need a guide on what form of nootropic is best for you? Check out our blog here.

Our Favourite Nootropics

Rosemary

Acting as both a circulatory and nervine stimulant, Rosemary promotes increased blood flow to the brain, making it a valuable ally in neurological conditions. A study, published in Psychogeriatrics, tested the effects of rosemary oil aromatherapy on 28 elderly dementia and Alzheimer's patients and found that its properties can prevent and slow Alzheimer's disease. We harness the benefits of Rosemary in our incredible Focus & Clarity blend. Combining the power of Lion's Mane, Holy Basil, Lemon Balm and Rosemary, creating a natural synergy that supports mental clarity, sharp focus and overall cognitive well-being.

Lion's Mane

This mushroom is not only beautiful, but it helps you power through any sluggish afternoons when your brain is tapping out. The two primary active compounds in Lion's Mane are hericenones and erinacines. Hericenones can help our brain produce more of a protein called nerve growth factors (NGF) that is produced in our hippocampus and regenerates neurons in our brain. This is truly one of the safest and best-known tools for neuroplasticity - the brain's ability to form and reorganise synaptic connections. This is especially valuable for learning new things. You can find it in our best-selling formulas Focus & Clarity and Calm & Collected.

Ginseng

The best way to sum up Ginseng is its great for being the first to jump out of bed (or staying there all day with a partner). This herb has a panacea of actions that supports each body uniquely. Best known for its neuroprotective, aphrodisiac, stress-relieving, immunomodulating and vitality supportive properties, its a tune-up for the whole body- elevating energy, general health and longevity. Find it in our classic morning tonic, Rise & Shine. The main active constituents in Ginseng are ginsenosides, which have been shown to increase neurotransmitter activity and blood flow to the brain. In one randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind study put on by a human cognitive neuroscience unit, young individuals who took 400 milligrams of Ginseng per day showed improved secondary memory performance, speed of performing memory tasks and accuracy of attentional tasks versus the placebo group.

2. Taking regular digital detox breaks

Have you noticed that more people are craving outdoor adventures? Wanting to unplug from digital life goes hand in hand with realising the multitude of benefits that come from spending time in nature. Whether it's ditching a few apps or switching off your phone, making a habit of taking breaks from screens is a great idea for 2024. Time without screens can be used to relax, try something new, or enjoy the outdoors – all of which can naturally boost your mood by giving your dopamine levels a positive nudge.

Our modern technology brings many great things! We can talk to anyone instantly and find tons of information easily. Jobs are diverse, work is better and life is simpler. But, there's a downside. We're also finding out that there are problems with our digital world.

Information overload: Too much information can make you feel stressed and confused. It might lead to feeling anxious, making bad decisions, losing focus and being less productive.

Shorter attention spans: Because we're trying to understand so much information, our attention spans are getting shorter. This makes it harder to focus and be productive.

More multitasking: Technology encourages multitasking, but it may not be what our brains were designed to do and may make it harder to focus on what's important and completing projects..

Signs it's time for a digital detox:

• You feel the urge to check your phone, affecting concentration.

• You feel FOMO (fear of missing out) if not checking social media regularly.

• You feel sad, angry, or anxious after spending time on social media.

• You've been experiencing sleep disturbances after exposure to electronic devices.

• You often find yourself measuring your worth against others' curated personas on social media.

• You have a preference for virtual interactions over in-person connections

Taking a break from all things digital might work for some, but it's not practical for most people. Instead of completely cutting off, try these small steps to still enjoy the benefits:

Make a plan: Figure out what's bothering you and take steps to change it. If you're on your phone too much, set specific times to check messages, emails, and notifications. Don't keep your phone in hand all the time.

Get intentional with your goals: Once you have a plan, make it specific. Have meals without your device with your family. Take a break from Instagram or Snapchat for a week, or limit your social media time each day. Turn off notifications to reduce the urge to check your device constantly. Use device settings or apps to monitor and limit your usage. Whatever you choose, commit to it, be specific and give yourself time to break old habits.

3. Natural Energy 

Do you regularly feel fatigued? If so, you're not alone. In fact, Holland & Barret's Wellness Trend Report 2024 has revealed that one in eight UK adults feel tired all the time. The year ahead promises to see people tackle the issue head-on – but without turning to stimulants like caffeine.

Adaptogens Boost Your Energy!
Adaptogens amp up your ability to tackle physical tasks, offering a steady stream of increased energy throughout the day. Think of them as an energy backup that kicks in during intense physical strain and fatigue recovery when your body needs it most. These adaptable boosters also help your body bounce back from the wear and tear of stress. Plus, they step in at the cellular level to counter stress effects, encouraging the liver to transform glycogen into glucose for an extra energy boost! 

What type of energy do you need?

Morning boost with Rise & Shine

This is a classic morning tonic with the powerhouse duo of Reishi and Ginseng, cherished in Traditional Chinese medicine for their energy-restoring qualities. Say goodbye to jitters and anxiety – just pure feel good energy!

Brain energy with Focus & Clarity

Our unique blend of three adaptogens (Holy Basil, Rhodiola, and Lion’s Mane), alongside four other all-natural ingredients create the perfect environment for your brain to focus on what’s most important. It's a must-have for modern-day life, loved by people with busy minds and packed schedules!

Building stamina with Perform & Recover

Go the extra mile with our trusted training formula! Cordyceps helps to enhance oxygen use and focus during workouts. Rhodiola, a Viking-endorsed ingredient, boosts mental and physical endurance, enhancing strength and speed. Paired with Ginseng, our formula becomes an age-old tonic for stamina. Athletes trust this dynamic blend, including Cordyceps, for a natural performance boost.

4. Sauna Bathing

Nordic countries have long known the benefits of regular sauna sessions – reducing brain aging, boosting blood flow, and getting rid of toxins. The Guardian reports that several studies in Scandinavia have shown that a 30 to 50-minute sauna session improves cardiorespiratory fitness in the same way that 30-50 minutes of moderate exercise does. Guess what? The love for saunas is catching on in the UK too, especially in places where people enjoy wild swimming. According to the British Sauna Society (BSS), there are about 60 pop-up saunas all over, and they've been doubling up every year since 2018! 

Sauna Tips:

Frequency of Use: Aim for four to seven sauna sessions per week for the best cardiovascular and overall health benefits.

Session Duration: Start with 20-minute sessions. Begin with shorter sessions and gradually increase as your body gets used to the heat.

Temperature Matters: The ideal sauna temperature is around 79 degrees. Different saunas may have varying temperatures; for example, infrared saunas operate at lower temperatures but still offer great health benefits.

Post-Sauna Cooling: After each session, cool down with a cold shower, a dip in a cold pool, or just sit in a cooler environment. This quick change in temperature stimulates the cardiovascular system.

Hydration and Electrolytes: Stay hydrated by drinking water before, during, and after each session. Consider beverages rich in electrolytes to replace minerals lost through sweating.

Listening to Your Body: Everyone's tolerance to heat is different. Start slowly, and gradually increase sauna time. If you feel dizzy, nauseous, or uncomfortable, exit the sauna immediately.

5. Ashwagandha

This is the cool, calming adaptogen that's all about tackling stress and anxiety. What makes it stand out? Well, it's not here to rev up your energy (like adaptogens typically do); instead, it's your go-to for relaxation. Whether it's work stress or your body feeling a bit off, Ashwagandha is up for the challenge. 

In Ayurveda, it is believed that this herb gives its users ‘the stamina and strength of a stallion’. It is used traditionally to prolong life, stimulate the mind and also acts as an aphrodisiac. 

Another benefit of Ashwagandha is that it is rich in iron and has been used to treat iron-deficiency anaemia when taken as a powder. Women, who are seven to ten times more likely to develop anaemia can benefit from this herb and it also relieves some perimenopausal symptoms such as muscle pain and cloudy thinking. We're huge enthusiasts of Ashwagandha, considering it is a core adaptogen in our product range. Explore our range to discover which The Herbtender products incorporate the benefits of Ashwagandha here.

Keep an eye out of these wellness trends, you’ll probably spot them everywhere now. If you’re wondering how you can possibly incorporate all of these ideas into your life, why not pick one thing and start there. Whether it's disconnecting from screens, fueling your energy with adaptogens, embracing the sauna wave, or finding tranquility with Ashwagandha, these trends are your invitation to a year filled with well-being.