Indians are changing towards a better, healthier lifestyle, as there is a growing interest in wellness. Due to the increased number of non-communicable diseases, preventive measures to live healthier lives have become important. 

In recent years, the wellness industry has grown significantly towards holistic lifestyle changes and growing awareness among Indians on physical, mental, and emotional health. 

India has a deep connection with wellness for thousands of years. Ayurveda, yoga, and meditation have been integral parts of Indian culture. Many people have started to use Ayurvedic products like herbal teas, dietary supplements and skin care products to improve their health. 

Following the COVID-19 epidemic, people have started to take natural products like ashwagandha and turmeric, to reduce stress and strengthen their immunity. People are going towards a holistic approach. 

In recent years, these ancient practices have been rediscovered and reinterpreted by a new generation of health-conscious Indians. 

Role of technology in wellness

Technology has played an important role in bringing wellness awareness to India. There are apps for everything from fitness tracking to yoga, food guidance, and guided meditation. E-commerce platforms have also increased accessibility to wellness products, offering a wide range of possibilities at the touch of a button, from organic groceries to exercise gear. The use of artificial intelligence and machine learning in wellness solutions helps in creating personalised recommendations. 

Younger generations are not only using the wellness content but also actively creating new wellness programs that bridge tradition and modern science.  

Corporate Wellness  

Many corporate companies in India have recognised the importance of employee health and mental wellness and have implemented programs like health screening, mental health workshops, stress management, nutrition counselling, and fitness activities. This support has been important in making wellness a part of daily life for many. It also creates a positive work culture and reduces healthcare costs.  

Previously, the concept of addressing mental health was taboo in India. Now it has become a very important component of wellness. Increasing awareness about stress, anxiety, and depression has led to a growing demand for mental health support services. Many online therapy apps have been developed which are easy, convenient and affordable to access. Practising meditation, deep breathing exercises and journaling are gaining popularity as tools for stress management. 

The general public is now more open to seeking help since Gen-Z individuals are more willing to talk about mental health issues in the workspace and their lives. Many companies have started to have more flexible working hours and also adopted wellness programs. 

Wellness tourism 

Wellness travel has been gaining popularity in recent times. The concept focuses on de-stressing from the tiring and more stressful environmental conditions where people are travelling to wellness retreats where yoga, meditation and healing techniques are practised. These retreats are not only focused on health but also mental health and spiritual well-being. 

Government role in wellness

The Indian government has implemented many wellness movements. It has recognised the importance of improving public health and boosting economic growth. A few initiatives by the government are:

• The Ministry of AYUSH. It focuses dedicatedly on promoting Ayurveda, yoga, Unani, Siddha, and homoeopathy by standardising traditional practices and integrating them with modern healthcare. 
• The Fit India Movement that promotes physical activity and balanced meals to move towards a healthier lifestyle. It also highlights the importance of fitness in schools, communities and companies. 
• The government has promoted India as a global centre for wellness travel by promoting yoga and Ayurveda. By promoting wellness it attracts many foreign visitors looking for wellness retreats. 
• The goal of mental health initiatives is to reduce social stigma and increase mental health treatments by incorporating it into primary care. 
  
  

Wellness Industry 

Initiatives to make fitness accessible to a variety of populations, such as women, the elderly, and children, have caused the fitness industry to change towards inclusivity. Events like marathons, cyclothons and yoga camps are gaining popularity and they encourage physical activity. The use of fitness apps and wearable technology has also played an important role.
 

Economical impact

The wellness industry has made remarkable growth and the report shows that there will be significant growth in the coming years. The growth is seen due to the increase in wellness startups, investment in health-tech companies, growing demand for organic and natural products and the popularity of wellness tourism. 

Wellness and nutrition 

With increasing health awareness, Indians are turning to clean eating and organic lifestyle. The demand for organic fruits, vegetables and minimally processed food is high. Foods like chia seeds, quinoa, and millet are preferred due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. 

Balanced eating and the inclusion of traditional superfoods have grown recently in their nutritional profile. Plant-based diets, vegan and vegetarian diets are becoming more and more popular. Many restaurants have included healthier menu options. 

Challenges in wellness  

Despite the promising growth, there are several challenges. The need to ensure that wellness remains accessible to everyone, and maintain authenticity while adapting traditional practices. 

Conclusion 

India’s wellness is a combination of ancient wisdom and modern science. As many people are recognising the value of holistic health approaches there can be continued innovation. We use a holistic approach at The London Obesity & Endocrine Clinic, and our results have shown to be sustainable and long-term.


Kripa N
Senior Clinical Dietitian, Simplyweight