I Tried the Latest Wellness Trends So You Don't Have To: Here's the Tea

In the quest for optimal well-being, I've ventured into the wild world of wellness trends. From sipping on dubious green liquids to sitting in rooms that look like they belong in a sci-fi movie, I've done it all. 

Here's my honest take on what's worth your time and what's better left to the Instagram influencers. Grab your favorite drink (whatever floats your wellness boat) and let's spill the tea on these trendy fads.

The Claim

• Detoxifies the Body: Advocates swear that celery juice cleanses rid your system of toxins, leaving you rejuvenated and energized.
• Improves Digestion: Supposedly, the juice aids in better digestion and gut health.
• Clears Skin: Promoters claim clearer, more radiant skin as a direct result of the cleanse.

The Reality

Taste Test: Imagine Liquefying Grass Clippings—Delightful

Let’s be real—drinking celery juice first thing in the morning can feel like a punishment. The taste? Think of liquid grass with a hint of earthiness. It’s not exactly a morning pick-me-up unless your idea of a wake-up call involves a spoonful of kale.

Preparation Hassle: Requires a Lot of Celery for a Small Amount of Juice

To get your daily dose, you need a bunch of celery stalks. Blending them into juice means enduring the grinding noise of your blender and dealing with the inevitable cleanup. Plus, it’s not the most appetizing way to start your day.

Physical Effects: Minimal Noticeable Changes After a Week

After a week of the celery juice cleanse, did I feel significantly detoxified? Not really. My digestion felt slightly better, but attributing that solely to celery juice would be a stretch. My skin didn’t undergo a dramatic transformation either—no overnight glow-ups here.

The Verdict

Overhyped: Limited Scientific Evidence to Support the Extravagant Claims

While celery is nutritious, the idea that juicing it alone can detoxify your body is misleading. Your liver and kidneys are already doing a fantastic job of detoxifying without any assistance from a morning celery ritual.

Better Alternative: Eat the Whole Celery Stalk for Fiber Benefits or Stick to Water and a Balanced Diet

Instead of juicing celery, incorporating whole stalks into your diet provides the fiber your body needs. Plus, maintaining a balanced diet with a variety of fruits and vegetables is a more effective and enjoyable way to support your health.

The Claim

• Reduces Stress: Unplugging from digital devices is said to lower stress levels and improve overall mental health.
• Improves Sleep: Cutting down screen time, especially before bed, can enhance sleep quality.
• Enhances Focus: Without constant digital distractions, your ability to concentrate on tasks increases.

The Reality

Withdrawal Symptoms: First Few Hours Felt Odd—Kept Reaching for My Phone

Initially, a digital detox day felt like a cruel joke. My hands kept reaching for my phone out of sheer habit, and the urge to check social media was intense. The first few hours were a battle between my desire to stay connected and my commitment to unplug.

Mental Clarity: By Midday, Felt More Present and Less Scattered

As the day progressed, something magical happened. Without the constant barrage of notifications and the endless scroll of social media, my mind felt clearer. I was more present in conversations and found myself enjoying activities I had previously sidelined.

Activities Enjoyed: Read a Book, Went for a Walk, Had Uninterrupted Conversations

With my phone out of reach, I rediscovered the joy of reading a physical book, taking leisurely walks without the distraction of GPS or podcasts, and engaging in meaningful conversations without the temptation to check my screen.

The Verdict

Worth Trying: Even a Partial Detox (Like No Devices After 8 PM) Can Have Benefits

Digital detox days are not only doable but also beneficial. Even if you can't go completely offline, setting boundaries like no devices after a certain time can significantly improve your mental well-being.

Tip: Let Friends and Family Know So They Don't Panic When You Go AWOL

To make the detox smoother, inform your close contacts about your plan to unplug. This way, they won’t worry if you’re not responding immediately, and you can enjoy your digital-free day without unnecessary interruptions.

The Claim

• Promotes Deep Relaxation: Sound baths use soothing sounds to help participants achieve a state of deep relaxation.
• Reduces Anxiety: The immersive sound experience is said to lower anxiety levels and promote mental calmness.
• Balances Energy: Practitioners believe that sound baths can balance your body's energy centers, or chakras.

The Reality

Ambiance: Dimly Lit Room with Cozy Mats and Blankets

Walking into a sound bath session feels like stepping into a different world. The room is softly lit, with comfortable mats and blankets inviting you to lie down and relax. The atmosphere is serene, almost otherworldly.

Sensations: Vibrations from the Instruments Were Calming; Almost Fell Asleep

As the session begins, the soothing sounds of singing bowls, gongs, and chimes fill the air. The vibrations resonate through your body, creating a calming effect that makes it easy to drift into a light sleep. It’s an incredibly relaxing experience, though sometimes a bit too tranquil for someone used to a high-energy lifestyle.

Aftermath: Felt Relaxed and Refreshed, Like After a Good Nap

Post-session, I felt a profound sense of relaxation and mental clarity. It was akin to the refreshment you get after a solid nap—mind fog lifted, and I felt rejuvenated, ready to tackle the rest of the day with renewed energy.

The Verdict

Surprisingly Effective: A Unique Way to Unwind and De-Stress

Sound baths offer a unique and effective way to unwind, especially for those who struggle with traditional meditation or relaxation techniques. The immersive sound experience can be a powerful tool for reducing stress and enhancing mental clarity.

Recommendation: Great for Those Open to Alternative Relaxation Methods

If you’re open to alternative relaxation methods and enjoy unique experiences, sound baths are worth trying. They provide a different approach to relaxation that can complement other wellness practices like yoga and meditation.

The Claim

• Detoxifies When Ingested: Activated charcoal is marketed as a detoxifier that can cleanse the body of toxins when consumed.
• Whitens Teeth: Charcoal-infused toothpaste is said to naturally whiten teeth by removing stains.
• Clears Skin Impurities: Activated charcoal face masks are promoted as a way to deep-cleanse the skin and reduce acne.

The Reality

Charcoal Lemonade: Tasted Okay but Left a Gritty Residue

Trying activated charcoal in my morning lemon water was a questionable decision. The taste was earthy and somewhat unpleasant, and it left a gritty residue at the bottom of my glass. While it didn't ruin the lemon water entirely, it wasn't the most enjoyable way to start the day.

Teeth Whitening: Messy and Turned My Sink Black

Using charcoal toothpaste was an adventure in itself. While my teeth did feel cleaner, the charcoal left stains on my sink and bathroom fixtures. Cleaning up after brushing became an extra hassle, and the long-term effects on tooth enamel remain uncertain.

Face Mask: Left Skin Feeling Tight but Not Necessarily Cleaner

The activated charcoal face mask did create a deep-cleansing sensation, but instead of clearing impurities, it left my skin feeling excessively tight and dry. The promise of a clearer complexion was not entirely fulfilled, leaving me with mixed results.

The Verdict

Proceed with Caution: Can Interfere with Medication Absorption and Isn't as Miraculous as Touted

Activated charcoal products come with potential risks, especially when ingested. They can interfere with the absorption of medications and nutrients, making them a questionable addition to your wellness routine. The effectiveness of charcoal for teeth whitening and skin cleansing is also not as impressive as advertised.

Better Alternatives: Use Clinically Proven Teeth Whiteners and Skincare Products

Instead of relying on activated charcoal, opt for clinically proven teeth whiteners and skincare products that offer reliable results without the messy side effects. Products backed by scientific research are a safer and more effective choice for maintaining your oral and skin health.

The Claim

• Reduces Anxiety: CBD is touted as a natural remedy for managing anxiety and promoting a sense of calm.
• Relieves Pain: Many believe that CBD can alleviate chronic pain and inflammation without the side effects of traditional painkillers.
• Improves Sleep: CBD products are marketed as aids for better sleep quality and combating insomnia.

The Reality

CBD Oil Drops: Mild Relaxation, but Effects Were Subtle

I started with CBD oil drops, hoping for a noticeable reduction in anxiety. While I did feel a slight sense of relaxation, the effects were subtle and not as transformative as promised. It was a gentle nudge toward calmness rather than the profound peace I was seeking.

CBD Gummies: Tasty but Expensive for the Dosage

CBD gummies were an enjoyable way to incorporate CBD into my routine. They tasted great and were easy to take, but the cost per dosage was high. Consistently using them became a pricey habit, especially considering the modest effects they provided.

Topical Creams: Provided Temporary Relief for Muscle Soreness

Applying CBD topical creams offered immediate relief for my muscle soreness after workouts. The cooling sensation was pleasant, and I felt temporary alleviation from the tightness. However, the effects didn’t last long, and the creams needed frequent reapplication to maintain any noticeable relief.

The Verdict

Promising but Pricey: Some Benefits, but More Research Is Needed

CBD products show promise in providing mild relief for anxiety, pain, and sleep issues. However, the high cost and subtle effects make it a less accessible option for regular use. Additionally, more scientific research is needed to fully understand the benefits and potential risks of long-term CBD use.

Tip: Ensure Products Are from Reputable Sources to Avoid Impurities

If you decide to try CBD products, it's crucial to choose reputable brands that provide third-party testing results. This ensures that you're getting pure CBD without harmful additives or contaminants, making your wellness journey safer and more effective.

Wellness trends are a mixed bag—some offer genuine benefits, while others are all hype and no substance. Before diving into the next big thing, consider:

• Research: Look for scientific backing, not just celebrity endorsements. Reliable studies and expert opinions can help you discern what’s truly beneficial.
• Listen to Your Body: What works for others may not work for you. Pay attention to how your body and mind respond to different practices and products.
• Cost vs. Benefit: Is it worth the investment? Evaluate whether the time, money, and effort required for a trend justify the potential benefits.

Remember, true wellness is about finding balance and practices that genuinely enhance your life—not just following the crowd. It’s about making informed choices that fit your unique lifestyle and needs, rather than chasing every new fad that pops up on your feed.

Stay curious but skeptical. Your well-being is worth it.

Stay balanced, stay fabulous.

XO M