Grounded, Glowing, and 10,000 Steps Ahead: My Favorite Science-Backed Wellness Habits

Wellness "Propaganda" I'm 1000% Falling For (And Why You Might Want To, Too)

By someone who's deep in the wellness trenches and not looking back.

I’ll admit it: I’m the wellness version of a conspiracy theorist. If it involves sunshine, beef tallow, or electromagnetic fields, I’m probably doing it. But here’s the thing—when you look past the Instagram aesthetics and TikTok trends, a surprising amount of this so-called "wellness propaganda" actually holds up to science.

So let’s talk about the things I’m 1000% falling for, and the reasons why they might deserve a place in your daily ritual too.

1. Infrared Saunas: Detox, Recovery, and That Glow

You haven’t really lived until you’ve sweat out your existential dread in a 150-degree infrared box. But beyond the emotional release, infrared saunas are backed by studies showing improved circulation, reduced inflammation, and even cardiovascular benefits. A 2015 study in JAMA Internal Medicine linked frequent sauna use with reduced risk of heart disease and all-cause mortality.

Translation: It’s not just hot air.

2. Beef Tallow: Grandma Was Right

Turns out, grandma's skincare secret was slathering rendered animal fat on her face. And now, we’re back at it. Beef tallow is rich in fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K), has a similar structure to our skin’s own oils, and contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which has anti-inflammatory properties.

Compared to chemical-laden lotions, this is skincare that whispers, not screams.

3. Air Purifiers: Because You Deserve to Breathe Better

Indoor air can be up to 5x more polluted than outdoor air, according to the EPA. Enter: HEPA filters. These babies remove up to 99.97% of airborne particles, including dust, allergens, and even some viruses.

If you live in a city, have pets, or just love your lungs, this one’s a no-brainer.

4. Spring Water: Nature’s Original Electrolyte Drink

Tap water gets the job done, sure. But spring water—untouched, mineral-rich, and filtered by Mother Earth herself—offers naturally occurring electrolytes like magnesium, calcium, and potassium.

And yes, I bring my glass bottle to the fill station like it’s a sacred pilgrimage.

5. Daily Dry Brushing: Lymphatic Love

Is it exfoliation? A ritual? Maybe all of the above. Dry brushing stimulates the lymphatic system, boosts circulation, and sloughs off dead skin.

There’s limited research, but even the Cleveland Clinic gives it a soft nod for skin and energy perks.

6. EMF-Blocking Tech: Tin Foil Hat Chic? Maybe Not.

Let’s be real—we are constantly marinating in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular signals. While the science is still emerging, studies have shown potential links between EMF exposure and oxidative stress.

Am I wrapping my router in copper mesh? Not yet. But sticking an EMF-shielding patch on my phone? Absolutely.

7. Grounding Mats: Hippie or Hacker?

Grounding, or "earthing," is the act of physically connecting to the Earth’s surface electrons. Studies suggest it may reduce cortisol, inflammation, and even improve sleep.

When you can’t walk barefoot in the forest, a grounding mat under your laptop can bring the forest to you.

8. 10,000 Steps: The OG Biohack

Born from a 1960s Japanese pedometer campaign, the 10k steps goal stuck around for a reason. Regular movement throughout the day reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and even some cancers.

More than a number, it’s a reminder to move your body—in any way that feels good.

9. Vitamin D from the Sun: Liquid Gold

Despite being free and abundant, over 40% of Americans are deficient in vitamin D. It impacts everything from mood to immunity to hormonal health.

Just 15 minutes of sunlight a day (without sunscreen) can be enough. Plus, there’s nothing quite like morning sun to make you feel alive.

10. "Your Health is Your Wealth": Because It's True

This one isn’t a product or a protocol. It’s a mindset. It’s the idea that everything—from your morning smoothie to your bedtime wind-down—is an investment in your future self.

Wellness isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s messy, evolving, and sometimes a little woo-woo. But in a world that profits off your distraction and disconnection, choosing to care for yourself is quietly radical.

And maybe, just maybe, falling for the right kind of propaganda isn’t such a bad thing.