WELLNESS GOOGLE SEARCHES

Improving Your Gut Health 

83% increase in searches on Google for ‘gut health’
60% increase in searches on Google for ‘gut brain axis’

Prioritising your gut health is increasingly popular. Gut health can refer both to your digestive system - also known as your gastrointestinal (GI) tract – and the balance of bacteria in your gut. Your gut digests food, houses a range of bacteria, absorbs energy and nutrients, and gets rid of waste products. Mental health may also impact your gut health, also known as your ‘gut brain axis’. Remember that it might take your gut time to get used to a new eating pattern, so make changes slowly to give your body time to adjust.

Lead an Eco Friendlier Life 

418% increase in searches on Google for ‘climate anxiety’
238% increase in searches on Google for ‘eco anxiety’

Eco and climate anxiety are growing and that can be a normal response to what’s happening in the world. You aren’t alone in your feelings either - millions of people across the world will be feeling the same as you. Taking notice of your feelings and turning those into positive actions can support your wellbeing, but also make a difference for the planet.

Incorporate Mindful Exercise into Your Life 

80% increase in searches on Google for ‘mindful moving’
53% increase in searches on Google for ‘mindful exercise’
23% increase in searches on Google for ‘mindful running’

Not only does moving your body have a positive impact on your physical health, but it’s a great way to celebrate what your body can do and boost your self-esteem. A great example of combining mindfulness and exercise is through mindful running, where you’re mentally connected with your movements and avoid any distractions. Try to notice the feeling of your body moving and the different smells and noises around you.

Track Your Stress Levels 

83% increase in searches on Google for ‘fitness tracker’
80% increase in searches on Google for ‘stress tracker’
50% increase in searches on Google for ‘cortisol level’

Another trend for the year is tracking stress levels. Some fitness and stress trackers worn on your wrist are now able to track your cortisol levels, but there are other options. Try taking note of any physical or mental stress symptoms, including pain or tension in your body, digestive problems such as nausea or constipation, and an increased heart rate. Emotional signs to look for include irritability, anger, feeling overwhelmed and racing thoughts.

Start a Mood Diary 

88% increase in searches on Google for ‘mood tracker journal’
50% increase in searches on Google for ‘mood journal’ in 2021

Keeping a mood journal, or emotion journal, can be a useful way to get to the root of lingering negative feelings (and increase positive ones). This allows you to recognise negative emotions and take action to help these feelings, whether it’s opening up to a friend, loved one or mental professional. Writing down your feelings has been shown to reduce your feelings of anxiety and depression, too.

Source: Bupa