A new study from Univ. of California, Irvine and Univ. of Tsukuba-Japan found that just ten minutes of very mild exercise—such as walking—can immediately alter how parts of the brain communicate with each other and boost memory function. The researchers noted that very short and easy exercise can change people’s brains right away, and that the exertion required for this significant benefit is so minimal…
By Thierry Malleret, economist Monthly Barometer Recent history shows us that economic growth can’t be truly green, so what are the broad consequences for investors? (1) Any industry or company seen as being particularly damaging to ecology will suffer; (2) Any profitable business perceived as minimizing ecologically bad outcomes while maximizing socially good ones will prosper; (3) Militant environmentalism will radicalize in the future, wreaking…
Yesterday, the GWI released a new Global Wellness Tourism Economy report at World Travel Market (WTM) in London. This is the study that put wellness tourism on the world’s radar, and the new edition is packed with more regional and national data and trends than ever before. A few findings: Wellness tourism grew from a $539 billion market in 2015 to $639 billion in 2017—a…
Humanity Has Wiped Out 60% of Animal Populations Since 1970, Report Finds– The Guardian, October 30, 2018 This is about a new, widely cited report. According to the World Wildlife Fund (involving 59 scientists from all over the world), humanity has wiped out 60 percent of mammals, birds, fish and reptiles since 1970. The vast and growing consumption of food and resources by the…
A book that just came out (Heart: A History, from Sandeep Jauhar, a cardiologist) sheds some fascinating light on the connection between wellbeing and cardiac issues. Put in the simplest possible terms: Stress can kill. As the author explains, the connection between our physical heart and our emotions is an intimate one. Sentiments, such as fear and grief, can cause cardiac injury by causing blood…
The GWI’s Hydrothermal Initiative has just released a new edition of its popular Guide to Hydrothermal Spa & Wellness Development Standards Expanded by 50 pages, the book provides a primer for anyone—whether designers, architects or builders—on designing thermal experiences and wet areas for commercial properties or residential homes. It covers everything from project planning to construction considerations, including recommended standards and materials—and new for 2018…
