Tor West

Senior Health & Wellness Editor

It feels like all aspects of ‘wellness’ have had a shake-up over the last couple of years – from where we exercise to what’s on our plate – but if one lesson has been learned this year, it’s the importance of rest and self-care. Brands like Wunder Workshop, Higher Dose (1) and Sensate (2) are making proper rest more accessible than ever, while treatments focusing specifically on stress reduction are everywhere, from Dr David Jack's Mindful Facial, which incorporates hypnotherapy, to the mindfulness massage at ESPA at The Corinthia (3), which was developed alongside a leading neuroscientist. Be sure to book in for a workshop at Re:Mind (4) in January, too. The meditation studio has joined forces with Self Space, the first brand in the UK to offer therapy on the high street, to create sessions that combine breathwork with sound healing and therapist-led practices. 

I see people turning to holistic therapies like acupuncture, too – so keep an eye out for more from Jo Ellner and Ross J Barr (and in the meantime, get involved with his Calm Patches). One dark November evening, I had the pleasure of joining the incredible Michelle Roques O’Neil for one of her new micro-retreats – a 90-minute session of meditation, breathwork and healing. Michelle will be holding these monthly from January. Reiki with Katy Boughey was also a highlight as was an astrology reading with Miranda Cook from The Wootique.

When it comes to nutrition, blood sugar control has been a big topic in wellness this year. I loved interviewing The Glucose Goddess in April – her practical tips for avoiding energy slumps and balancing hormones have been a game-changer. And if you’re looking for new supplements, check out Invivo, one of the most exciting brands that’s doing things differently, all with gut health in mind.