Dirty wellness is a positive, balanced, and non-judgmental approach to health that we should all embrace to enhance our well-being. Let’s explore why.
In today’s world, there’s almost an implicit pressure to be “healthy.” Advertisements, magazines, and social media platforms often extol the virtues of various routines, specific physical activities, or ultra-healthy foods. Faced with these pressure-filled versions of well-being, it’s easy to forget that improving health doesn’t have to be a 24/7 commitment.
For many of us, it’s simply not feasible, giving rise to the concept of “dirty wellness.” Coined by the Global Wellness Institute (GWI), as reported by Glamour, dirty wellness suggests that there are gray areas in well-being, even for the most dedicated fitness enthusiasts or mindfulness practitioners (and for the rest of us as well). In other words, to truly take care of our mental and physical health, we must accept that perfection isn’t always attainable.
Embracing Imperfection
Indeed, a rigid and restrictive approach to well-being can be detrimental both physically and in terms of lifestyle. Wellness is a very personal journey, and a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work for everyone. Putting too much pressure on oneself to adhere to a strict and unsuitable program can lead to anxiety, guilt, and disappointment. An overly rigid approach can inadvertently contribute to stress and a sense of failure if not adhered to perfectly. In my opinion, true well-being involves developing a positive relationship with one’s body and mind, which includes flexibility and self-compassion.
Therefore, there is no need to engage in three meditation sessions, seven hours of exercise, and four intermittent fasts per week to feel good. The idea is to permit yourself to love Pilates as much as pizza, smoothies as much as glasses of wine, and good nights of sleep as much as endless lively evenings. Well-being isn’t about perfection, strict rules, or restrictive measures. It’s more about creating sustainable habits that enhance your life and finding a balance that suits you.
