Are wellbeing trends helping or harming Brits? A new study reveals 58% of UK adults had a negative experience with wellness trends – so where are they going wrong?
With an average of 31,000 Google searches for "wellbeing trends" each month, Brits are prioritising their health more than ever.
But a new study by hot tub manufacturer Platinum Spas reveals that while 75% of people want to try a new wellness trend in 2025, a staggering 58% say their experience with past trends has been negative.
From social media inspiration to expert recommendations, the report explores how people choose their wellness routines, which trends have gained traction and why some people struggle to maintain them.
How are brits choosing their wellbeing trends?
Finding the right source of wellness advice is crucial to success. The study found that 33% of Brits rely on friends and family for inspiration, while others turn to professional sources:
- Friends and family – 33%
- Health and wellness magazines – 30%
- GP/NHS advice – 30%
- YouTube – 28%
- Fitness apps – 23%
- TikTok – 22%
- Instagram – 20%
- Celebrities/influencers – 7%
While social media is a popular tool for discovering new trends, it’s essential to verify that influencers and content creators have the right expertise before following their advice.
The most popular wellbeing trends in 2024
Platinum Spas’ study found that hot and cold water therapies are the UK’s most popular wellbeing trend, followed by hormone health awareness and magnesium supplements.
The top wellbeing trends Brits have tried:
- Hot and cold water therapies (saunas and ice baths) – 11%
- Hormone health awareness – 8%
- Magnesium supplements – 7%
- Sober curiosity – 7%
- Sunday reset routine – 7%
- Morning shed routine – 6%
- Digital detoxing – 4%
- Reformer Pilates – 4%
- 5-9 before 9-5 routine – 3%
- Cortisol Face trend – 3%
- 75 Hard programme – 2%
While these trends have gained momentum, the study highlights that some have been more sustainable than others.
Which wellbeing trends were the most successful?
Certain wellness routines, such as digital detoxing, Sunday reset and magnesium supplements, were the most successful, with 23%–30% of participants integrating them into their daily or weekly habits.
Additionally, 68%–80% of participants reported no negative effects.
On the flip side, trends such as the “morning shed” routine, sober curiosity and the 75 Hard programme were harder to sustain.
23% of those who tried the morning shed routine abandoned it within a week, with 52% of them finding the idea on TikTok.
29% of people who attempted the 5-9 before 9-5 trend only stuck with it for one to four weeks.
Some trends also had unexpected downsides. The morning shed routine and 5-9 before 9-5 negatively impacted physical health, while sober curiosity and hormone health awareness affected mental wellbeing.
Meanwhile, reformer Pilates and the 75 Hard programme were financially unsustainable for some participants.
How brits are changing their lifestyles to improve wellbeing
Beyond trends, many Brits are making meaningful lifestyle changes to improve their overall wellbeing.
The most common wellbeing lifestyle changes:
- Incorporating regular exercise or movement – 19%
- Rebuilding or strengthening relationships – 18%
- Ending a relationship – 15%
- Taking time to travel or go on a sabbatical – 14%
- Reducing time spent on social media – 13%
- Stopping alcohol consumption – 12%
- Moving to a new city or country – 12%
- Changing careers or retraining – 11%
- Moving house – 10%
- Starting therapy, coaching or counselling – 7%
- Leaving a job to prioritise wellness – 7%
- Quitting smoking or vaping – 7%
- Starting a family – 2%
Whether it’s a major life change like moving cities or small adjustments like reducing screen time, these shifts indicate a growing focus on long-term wellness strategies rather than fleeting trends.
Expert tips for successfully incorporating wellbeing trends
To help Brits avoid the pitfalls of short-lived wellness trends, Platinum Spas shared expert advice on how to create a sustainable and effective wellbeing routine.
- Personalise your wellness routine
Your wellness plan should reflect your lifestyle, goals and personal needs.
Avoid adopting trends just because they’re popular – choose activities that genuinely benefit you. - Prioritise quality sleep
Lack of sleep can sabotage your wellbeing efforts. Set a consistent sleep schedule, reduce screen time before bed and create a relaxing evening routine. - Stay hydrated
Dehydration can lead to fatigue and poor concentration. Keep a water bottle handy and drink consistently throughout the day. - Find an accountability buddy
Having a friend or family member to check in with can help keep you motivated and make new habits more enjoyable. - Be kind to yourself
Wellness is a journey, not a race. If you have setbacks, don’t be discouraged – just refocus and keep going. Small, consistent actions lead to lasting results.
Wellbeing trends can be a powerful tool for improving health – when done right. While the rise of wellness culture shows a growing interest in self-care, it’s crucial to choose trends that align with individual needs, rather than blindly following online hype.
With the right approach, 2025 can be the year of sustainable, long-term wellness.
For more advice, visit Platinum Spas' full wellness trend report here.
