Here’s what’s hot in natural health
Savvy sanitizing
Demand for hand sanitizer is rising—no surprise there. While zapping germs is the goal, some sanitizers are adding a touch of glamour to the picture. Now on shelves: formulas with aromatherapy benefits and tropical scents (everything from watermelon to citrus), as well as moisturizing benefits (look for the addition of almond, tea tree, and marula oils). You’ll see more than typical plastic packaging too, with pumps that look like perfume bottles.
All in for avocados
Avocado is proving to be more than just a toast topping. Promising scientific studies reveal that a lipid within the fruit, avocatin B, may help fight obesity and diabetes. Avocatin B has been found to improve the body’s ability to completely burn fats; this may lead to less weight gain and better absorption of sugar from the bloodstream. Avocados also contain more potassium than bananas, so they’re ripe with health benefits.
Inhale, exhale
This year has been difficult, prompting many people to stop, take a deep breath, and center themselves. Another term for that is breath work, a way of taking in air deeply to your diaphragm rather than just your chest. It’s simple: Lie down and inhale and exhale slowly through your nose, feeling the air go all the way to your belly. This practice decreases stress and increases alertness and oxygen flow, letting your body release toxins.
Mind matters
To amplify the importance of mental health, some employers are thinking outside of the typical-benefits box. As remote working becomes more common, flexibility with hours is on the rise, as is extra support for employees with families. Some companies, like Starbucks, are tackling mental health even more head-on by offering its partners free professional counseling and complimentary access to meditation apps like Headspace.
Green scene
Houseplants are having a moment. Millennials in particular have sprouted interest in them, plastering Instagram with photos tagged #plantsofinstagram and #urbanjungle. Greenery that was big in the ’70s is making the biggest splash—think monstera deliciosa (also known as Swiss cheese plant), parlor palms, and begonias. Best of all, the trend is rooted in wellness: Plants are known to improve air quality and lower stress.
