Putting too much pressure on ourselves to be healthy could actually be making us sick, according to a new report.
Nearly two-thirds of more than 15,000 adults surveyed in a global poll said they felt “overwhelming societal expectations” about looking good.
This is leading to “wellness burnout”, experts say, and they have warned that the pressure is causing people to become obsessed with what is missing in their lives.
Research shows that it mainly affects younger generations: people in their twenties are twice as likely to feel physical, mental and social pressure than those over 60.
The data, compiled by sportswear brand Lululemon, also revealed that 53 percent of people believe there is too much conflicting information about the best way to be healthy.
Nearly two-thirds of more than 15,000 adults surveyed in a global poll said they felt “overwhelming societal expectations” to look good (file image)
The report also revealed that 89 percent of people are taking more steps than a year ago to improve their wellbeing in some way (file image)
The Global Wellbeing Report 2024 says: ‘We are trapped in a perpetual cycle, where the more pressure we feel to be well, the worse we feel.
‘The cycle is fueled by three key pressure points: unrealistic societal expectations, conflicting information and the sense that we are acting alone.’
She recommends actions to help break the cycle, including taking breaks from social media, practicing meditation, moving your body throughout the day, spending time in nature, or using physical activity to socialize.
The data showed that people who participate in group fitness classes report 15 percent greater well-being, those who practice meditation report 9 percent greater well-being, and those who set boundaries in their work and personal lives report 13 percent greater well-being.
Dr Murali Doraiswamy, member of lululemon’s global mental wellbeing advisory board, said: ‘Often, the pressure to improve our wellbeing causes us to overthink and obsess about what’s missing in our lives.
‘I recommend setting gradual, achievable goals, turning the pursuit of wellness into a source of joy and anticipation rather than stress.’
The report also found that 89 percent of people are taking more steps than they did a year ago to improve their well-being in some way.