Wellness holiday specialists Health and Fitness Travel envision a picture of health for the year ahead. For those still hanging on to New Year’s health resolutions, here are some emerging wellness trends to keep an eye on in 2018.

Preventative Health
Preventable diseases are responsible for 70 percent of premature deaths worldwide each year, so it’s more important than ever to take action. As people become increasingly aware of the consequences of unhealthy habits, there’s an increase in preventive health holidays. For example, medi-spas — involving check-ups, spa therapies and counseling — will likely increase in popularity.

Architectural Wellness
A growing trend in the wellness industry, wellness architecture reshapes luxury travel, providing spaces physically beautiful but also comfortable, functional and sustainable. Hotels, airports and other travel spaces are increasingly designed and constructed with materials addressing the physical and mental health of those inside. Singapore Changi Airport, for example, houses more than 500,000 plants, and resorts like Aro Ha in New Zealand and Canyon Ranch in Tucson incorporate calming aesthetics into their wellness offerings.

Mindful Movement
With increased awareness of the connection between the mind and body, a shift toward mindful exercises is happening. Hotels and resorts will offer more classes and private instruction combining physical and psychological exercises.

Technology for Wellness
It should come as no surprise tech heavily influences the travel industry, but it’s not only popping up in smart TVs and self-driving cars. Spa and fitness technology becomes increasingly sophisticated, and we can expect to see it incorporated in every aspect of the travel experience.

Happy Retreats
As travel priorities shift toward experiential as opposed to material, happiness retreats become more popular. This type of travel is inspired by the desire to experience something that will have positive psychological impacts. Activities like morning hikes, beach yoga and meditation will work their way onto more itineraries.

Community Wellness
The wellness tourism industry places emphasis on social responsibility and takes steps to give back to communities. By utilizing locally made commodities, supporting local farmers and implementing sustainable practices, travel companies focus more and more on the overall well-being of communities around the world.

What are your wellness travel plans for 2018? Email us at letters@globaltravelerusa.com.