You Can Never Be Too Rich Or Too Well

Gurus, juice fasts, sheet masks and Reiki healing sessions have replaced the Birkin bag as a status symbol, according to some trend watchers, as “wellness,” a concept with a luxury patina, is the new conspicuous consumption.

Wellness consultant Anni Hood calls it “luxury for one’s selfie,” as pampering routines once done in private have turned into social media currency. Hashtag: #SpaDay.

These East meets West concepts of wellness, often accompanied by a guru shilling their cleanses, tends to be part of of the package. Along with advice against GMO foods, gluten, and sugar.

Analysts say this new Aspiration is being driven by Millennials who are helping to redefine luxury — and it makes sense that wellness would be a focus. It’s part of a trend we call Extreme Safety, excessive focus on safety and preparedness. Perhaps Millennials, some of whom are also part of a new sobriety movement, want to be as well and strong as they can for what looks these days like End Times.