Surfing, Adrenaline, and Multi-generational Groups: The Top 10 Wellness Trends for 2016

Spafinder Wellness 365 this week released its 13th annual Global Spa & Wellness Trends Forecast, citing the of Top 10 trends they say are “poised to shape the wellness, hospitality, travel and spa industries, and chart new territory in wellness for consumers in the new year.” 

Six of the trends that agents should know about are:

1. Surfing (and spinoffs like standup paddle boarding) is expanding,with new offerings includingall-female surf retreats, surf-simulating fitness classes, and wave-simulating surfing parks.

2. The ancient Mexican practice of temazcal (an elaborate ritual in which a trained shaman uses heat, steam, aromatic herbs, and ancient prayers and chants to connect guests with forces of the physical and spiritual world) is the latest manifestation of travelers seeking out native, authentic wellness offerings.

3. Parents are dedicating more time, attention, and money to keeping their families well, and consequently we’re seeing more wellness-focused and active family vacations.

4. Adrenaline plus relaxation combos are seeing more extreme adventure travel being topped off with “après-adrenaline” relaxation at spas, resorts, and wellness retreats. SpaFinder reports “medical science reveals why this seemingly paradoxical contrast therapy is addictive: adrenaline rushes followed by ‘Zen’ relaxation uniquely reset and quiet the brain, and result in the most blissed-out relaxation.”

5. Wellness festivals are cropping up all over the globe, celebrating health and wellbeing while still embracing the spirit that makes music festivals so popular.

6. Cruise lines are incorporating more wellness options, allowing travelers to de-stress and stay healthy while onboard and during shore excursions. Offerings include yoga sessions on deck, medical beauty treatments, indigenous wellness, and adventure activities.

For more on what’s hot in wellness, see our coverage today in the Reporter’s Notebook: New York Times Travel Show, Part 3. 

For the full SpaFinder survey, go here.