Practices such as yoga and tai chi have commanded a following for thousands of years, but the mass, worldwide adoption of mindful movement is a relatively recent phenomenon. Over the last couple of decades, many of these ancient or long-standing practices have been co-opted by the world of fitness, adapted to appeal to modern gym-goers. Alongside this trend, our concept of exercise and fitness is…
Technology is arguably the biggest force driving change in the physical activity economy, bringing new business models and methods of participation, new ways to reach customers, and new kinds of devices and equipment. Technology is transforming how consumers engage with all types of fitness and physical activity, enabling us to track our own metrics, monitor performance and progress, access programs and services on demand, and…
A new randomized controlled trial in the New England Journal of Medicine found that two sessions (three weeks apart) of 25 mg of psilocybin had at least as significant an impact on depressive symptoms as taking one of the most common SSRIs (escitalopram/Lexapro) daily for six weeks. The psilocybin group also reported fewer side effects and other positive emotional impacts. As the lead researcher put it,…
There is no longer any doubt that the future is hybrid. It is now everywhere: hybrid work (worldwide and across industries, 9 out of 10 organizations are switching to it); hybrid events (a given); hybrid food (a protein mix of animal cells and plants); and hybrid transportation (fostered by the dramatic improvement in battery technology and extending now to shipping). The list goes on. It…
Heat Therapies (Saunas, Hot Tubs) Offer Some Similar Benefits as Exercise A new meta-review of studies from Coventry University-UK found that heat therapies, such as time in saunas or hot baths, raise core body temp and improve blood flow, leading to benefits that include lower blood pressure, better blood sugar control, better fitness levels, and reduced inflammation—all similar to the effects of moderate exercise such…
Mental wellness is neither a modern concept nor a new practice. Since the beginning of civilization, humans have sought out ways to understand and improve ourselves, to find wholeness and happiness, to comprehend and cope with life’s mysteries, to work toward a moral good, and to please the gods. Over the last 50–60 years, many of these efforts have come to be associated with the…
