One of the most interesting wellness trends right now might actually be people wanting less technology. Not better tracking, not more optimisation, just less access.
There are now companies building physical devices that block apps from your phone, alongside more retreats, gyms and wellness spaces experimenting with phone-free experiences.
I get it. Particularly in gym settings where filming has become normalised and people are sometimes recording themselves and others, without consent. I can see why some spaces are starting to push back against that culture but I also think context matters.
In yoga and when public speaking, I’ve never really minded phones being present. As a parent myself and teaching people with caring responsibilities or jobs in bluelight services, I understand that sometimes having your phone on silent but visible is reassuring. Real life doesn’t disappear because we step onto a mat.
Part of yoga philosophy, for me at least, is worrying less about creating some artificially perfect or curated zen experience. I’m generally happy with whatever helps people feel safe enough to arrive.
That said… as recording culture, wearable tech and even smart glasses become more common, I can definitely see the conversation shifting.
Maybe this is all part of a wider return towards real experiences again, more presence, more boundaries with less performance and less living through screens.
Curious where everyone lands on this:
Would you attend a genuinely phone free class or wellness space or are we adults who should retain agency over our belongings?
