In recent years, the concept of wellbeing has moved from the margins of popular culture to a central focus in business, healthcare, and personal development. Yet, as the industry grows, the conversation around wellbeing is often clouded by questions: Is wellbeing a legitimate, science-backed field, or is it just a passing trend? With rising interest from both consumers and investors, how can we ensure that the wellbeing industry stays grounded in science and truly benefits individuals and communities.
A game changer called Global Wellness Institute
The Global Wellness Institute (GWI) has played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between wellbeing practices and scientific research. Through its extensive reports and resources, the Institute has highlighted how wellbeing is not just a “nice-to-have” but a crucial element for long-term physical, mental, and societal health. According to the GWI, the wellness economy is now valued at over $6.3 trillion (representing 6.03% of global GDP), and it touches everything from nutrition and fitness to mental health, real estate, workplace and tourism. But more importantly, the GWI has emphasized the science behind wellbeing practices, helping turn what was once considered “soft” or “subjective” into an evidence-based field.
The GWI’s research has highlighted the proven benefits of practices such as meditation, sleep optimization, exercise, nutrition, and social connection. For example, their studies have shown how mindfulness and stress-reduction practices can reduce inflammation, enhance cognitive function, and even slow the aging process. Similarly, exercise and proper nutrition not only improve physical health but also significantly impact mental wellbeing, lowering rates of anxiety and depression. The GWI’s commitment to rigorous research and collaboration with scientific experts has helped transform wellbeing from a feel-good buzzword to a respected field grounded in data.
The key role of private researchers
We must not overlook the role of private researchers, who continue to be on the front lines of discovering the tangible benefits of wellbeing practices. Researchers in universities, wellness companies, and private institutions have worked tirelessly to better understand how elements like mindfulness, breathwork, and fitness impact the brain and body. Their work is invaluable in shedding light on the physiological and psychological mechanisms behind practices that have been part of human culture for millennia but were often dismissed as unscientific.
These researchers deserve our gratitude. Their work often goes unnoticed by the public, but without their dedication, we would not have the evidence we do today to support wellbeing practices. Thanks to their efforts, we now understand why practices like yoga, tai chi, or even regular walking have such a profound effect on reducing chronic diseases, improving mood, and enhancing overall life satisfaction. The importance of this research cannot be overstated, as it gives credence to what many have intuitively known for centuries: that wellbeing is a multi-faceted, scientific, and vital part of a healthy, successful life.
People’s wellbeing (not just cash) must be the king here
As the wellbeing industry grows and commercialises, there is a growing responsibility for industry leaders to remain focused on the true mission of improving people’s lives, not just boosting the bottom line. It’s easy to see the wellbeing market as a vehicle for profit, especially as more businesses are jumping on the bandwagon. Indeed, the GWI projects that the global wellness economy will grow at a robust rate of 7.3% annually from 2023-2028, a growth rate substantially higher than the projected global GDP growth (4.8% according to current IMF forecasts). However, it is essential that the core mission — the actual wellbeing of individuals — remains the guiding principle. In the rush to capitalise on the growing demand, companies and organisations must ensure they uphold scientific integrity and offer products and services that genuinely contribute to better health.
To the leaders of this industry: It is crucial to stay committed to the values that first sparked the wellness revolution. Yes, profits and returns for investors and stakeholders are vital. But let us not forget that the greatest value of the wellbeing industry lies in the lives it can change. We must continue to prioritise high-quality, evidence-based practices that improve mental, physical, and emotional health, ensuring that the products and services offered are not just lucrative but life-affirming.
Profitability and people’s wellbeing can, and should, go hand in hand. When companies act with a purpose, grounded in science and driven by the mission of improving lives, they set themselves up for long-term success and help create a future where personal health and collective wellness are seen as fundamental rights — not just consumer products.
In conclusion, the wellbeing industry is far from a fleeting trend or a marketing gimmick. Backed by science, research, and the tireless efforts of experts, the practices we now understand as “wellness” are essential to both individual and collective health. As the industry continues to evolve, it is vital that all stakeholders — from researchers to entrepreneurs to investors — stay committed to ensuring that the focus remains on authentic, evidence-based wellbeing. After all, it is people’s lives we are trying to improve, and it is only by staying true to the science and prioritising people’s health over profits that the wellbeing industry can realise its full potential.
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Inma Moreno Coach
Wellbeing Coach, Master in NLP coaching and Time Line Therapy®
