While most of us know what terms like "neuro," "nephro," and "osteo" mean, there are many new health-related words cropping up. These terms, often coined at the intersection of science, lifestyle, and culture, encapsulate innovative practices and concepts that redefine our understanding of health. From "forest bathing" to "biohacking," these terms not only introduce novel approaches to well-being but also challenge conventional approaches by incorporating elements of nature, technology, and personal empowerment.

Take "sleep hygiene" for example. It's all about creating good habits for better sleep, like having a regular bedtime routine and keeping your bedroom comfortable and quiet. Then there's "hygge," a Danish concept that's about cosiness and enjoying simple pleasures. It reminds us to slow down, relax, and find joy in little things like a warm cup of tea or spending time with loved ones. 

 

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"Forest bathing," inspired by the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, harnesses the therapeutic power of nature by immersing individuals in forest environments. Rooted in the belief that spending time amidst trees promotes physical, mental, and emotional health, this practice encourages mindful engagement with natural surroundings to alleviate stress, boost immunity, and enhance overall vitality. 

Similarly, "biohacking" encompasses a diverse range of techniques aimed at optimising human performance and longevity, by the use of technologies, personalised nutrition, and lifestyle modifications.

These terms might be new, but they offer simple ways to take care of ourselves in today's busy world. That's why it is important to know these words and try incorporating these approaches for well-rounded health.

 

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20 Health Terms To Know

Biohacking

The practice of making small, incremental changes to lifestyle and diet to optimise physical and mental performance. Whether it's tweaking nutrition, optimising sleep, or incorporating new technologies, biohackers are constantly seeking ways to optimise their health and productivity. 

 

Floatation Therapy

Also known as sensory deprivation or isolation therapy, it involves floating in a saltwater tank in complete darkness to promote relaxation and stress relief. This unique environment promotes deep relaxation, sensory deprivation, and stress relief. By removing external stimuli, floatation therapy allows the mind and body to enter a state of profound relaxation, facilitating introspection, creativity, and mental clarity. 

 

Hygge

It is a Danish concept emphasising cosiness, contentment, and well-being. This concept goes beyond just physical comfort; it's about creating a cosy atmosphere that fosters a sense of contentment and well-being. Whether it's lighting candles, snuggling up with a warm blanket, or enjoying a homemade meal with loved ones, hygge encourages us to slow down and appreciate the simple pleasures in life. 

 

Green Exercise

It involves physical activity performed in natural environments, such as hiking, gardening, or outdoor yoga. Research suggests that spending time outdoors can reduce stress, enhance mood, and boost cognitive function, making green exercise an enjoyable and effective way to stay active and well.

 

Nature Deficit Disorder

This is a term coined to describe the negative consequences of spending insufficient time in nature, including stress, anxiety, and reduced attention span. Beyond stress and anxiety, prolonged disconnection from nature has been linked to decreased creativity, impaired cognitive function, and weakened immune systems. 

 

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Decision fatigue

Decision fatigue is mental or emotional exhaustion due to excessive or relentless decision-making, specifically the cumulative effect of making small decisions throughout the day. Implementing strategies like simplifying choices, prioritising tasks, and taking regular breaks can help mitigate decision fatigue. 

 

Sleep debt

It is the difference between the hours of sleep an individual needs and the actual time spent sleeping; when the hours exceed the time slept. Accumulating sleep debt can have serious repercussions on physical and mental health, including impaired cognitive function, mood disturbances, and increased risk of chronic diseases

 

Coffee nap

It is a short nap (15-30 minutes) taken immediately after drinking a cup of coffee, supposedly as the energising effect of caffeine is strengthened by a sleeping body’s drop in adenosine levels. The idea behind a coffee nap is to capitalise on the dual effects of caffeine and short naps on alertness. By consuming a cup of coffee just before a brief nap, typically lasting between 15 to 30 minutes, individuals aim to wake up feeling more refreshed and alert.

 

Forest Bathing

It is a practice of immersing oneself in nature, often in a forest, for its therapeutic benefits. It's about slowing down, connecting with the natural world, and allowing the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest to calm the mind and rejuvenate the spirit. 

 

Slow productivity

Slow productivity doesn’t have a negative connotation, instead it means working a little slower on fewer tasks at one time to enjoy the process of work a bit more. It is productivity redefined based on quality of work instead of the quantity. Slow productivity shifts the focus from completing tasks quickly to savouring the process of work and delivering high-quality outcomes

 

Orange shower

Orange shower is making rounds quite literally. In this an orange that’s peeled and eaten while taking a steamy shower. The supposed benefit is that the steam enhances the orange’s citrusy fragrance and creates a soothing shower experience. So, for a quick pick-me-up, let’s skip the spas, and opt for the revitalising sensation of an orange shower.

 

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Dopamine fasting 

It involves avoiding over stimulating activities (video games, junk food, social media) to calm the nervous system and feel more grounded. The ultimate goal of dopamine fasting is to reduce cravings, increase self-control, and foster a greater sense of mindfulness 

Cryotherapy 
It is a type of low-temperature treatment to reduce inflammation, associated pain and may help in easing mental health conditions such as anxiety, and depression. This is because cold temperatures trigger the release of endorphins and other feel-good hormones, providing a mood-boosting effect

 

Sober Curiosity 

It is a deliberate examination of one’s drinking choices and how it impacts their life. This exploration may involve questioning the role of alcohol in social situations, examining motivations for drinking, and considering the physical, mental, and emotional effects of alcohol consumption. 

 

Rucking 

Rucking means walking a predetermined distance while carrying a loaded backpack (with weights or other items). rucking can be a social activity too, allowing participants to bond with others while enjoying the outdoors and improving their overall fitness level.

 

Antifragile

It involves becoming more robust when exposed to stressors, uncertainty or risk. Unlike fragile systems that break or weaken under pressure, antifragile means to thrive and benefit from volatility, randomness, and disorder.

 

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Procrastivity

It is a type of productive procrastination, where a person puts off a priority task to escape to a lower priority task, but it is still a productive task. Rather than avoiding work altogether, procrastivity involves channelling procrastination tendencies into activities that may not be immediately urgent but still contribute to overall productivity. 

 

Procaffeinating

Procaffeinating is the habit or tendency to not start anything until you have had your cup of coffee. Procaffeinating individuals may find that the caffeine boost from coffee helps them feel more energised and focused, making it easier to tackle tasks with renewed vigour and enthusiasm.

 

Trauma Dumping 

Trauma dumping is an unsolicited, one-sided sharing of traumatic or extremely bad experiences or emotions in a non-ideal setting or with people who are unprepared for the interaction. This behaviour can overwhelm and burden the listener, leading to feelings of discomfort, helplessness, or emotional distress. Trauma dumping may occur due to a lack of awareness about appropriate boundaries, a desire for validation or sympathy, or an inability to regulate emotions 

 

Expressive Arts Therapy 

Expressive arts therapy is a form of therapy that integrates various creative modalities, such as visual arts, music, movement, drama, and writing, to help individuals explore and express their emotions, experiences, and thoughts. It can be particularly beneficial for those who find it difficult to express themselves verbally or who prefer alternative forms of communication.

 

Need all your wellness solutions in one place? A whole new world awaits just a click away.