Modern Wellness is Narcissism Lite

The State of Wellness in 2025 

In 2023, the wellness industry was valued at a staggering $6 trillion—promising better health, better minds, and better lives… for a price, of course. 💸

Since the COVID days of self-isolation, self-care has changed. What was once a basic human need has now turned into a luxury shopping list. 🛍️

• ✅ $300 Pilates class packages

• ✅ $20 Erewhon smoothies

• ✅ $40 Blue Sea Moss

• ✅ $10k Eat, Pray, Love Trip to Bali ✈️

Wellness has become a status symbol, wrapped in the language of self-improvement. And if you don’t have a Tracey Anderson membership—then, are you even doing it right?

Diva’s, I’ve fallen prey to it too. I’ve done boutique fitness classes, bought unnecessary activewear, and even paid $6 extra for collagen in my smoothie (gotta love New York).

But Here’s the Thing: Real Wellness Isn’t Something You Buy. 💡

It’s not supposed to be a never-ending pursuit of perfection. It’s about practicing self-compassion and living a somewhat balanced lifestyle.

In today’s newsletter, we’ll dive into how the wellness industry has morphed from individual empowerment to full-blown narcissism—and how you can start living a better life for FREE. 😌✨

Individualism, Wellness, and Narcissism 🧠

Individualism is about being the main character of your own life. It means:

• ✅ Making your own choices

• ✅ Defining your own path

• ✅ Prioritizing your personal growth

• ✅ Expressing yourself freely

• ✅ Being independent

• ✅ Chasing what truly matters to you 🌟

Individualism, rooted in the Enlightenment, has been a major driver of personal growth. But now, digital individualism may have led us astray. 🤳

The Rise of Digital Individualism 🌐

Social media (2010s-present) turned individualism into self-curation—our digital presence became an extension of our personal identity. The creator economy blurred the lines between personal and professional, making self-optimization a necessity.

Wellness culture has turned self-care into an industry, tying personal health to personal branding. 💅

In short? Wellness has become about personal branding, not about feeling whole and integrated. 🔄

Does Going to Pilates Make Me a Narcissist? 😳

Let’s face it, we all have narcissistic tendencies. We care about how we’re perceived, we seek validation, and we want to belong. 💕

But digital individualism has blurred the line between self-expression and self-branding, making personal identity a curated performance rather than an authentic experience. 🎭

So, does Pilates make you a narcissist? Not inherently. But if you’re using it solely as a status symbol or living above your means to afford it, it’s worth asking yourself: Am I doing this to feel good, or just to look good? 🤔

What Being Broke Taught Me About Wellness 💸

Not too long ago, I was broke. I mean MC Hammer broke. Post-FFS, I was five months behind on rent, my hair extensions were falling out, and I was waiting in line for free food.

It was rock bottom, but it was also a wake-up call. If you’re going through something similar, check out my podcast episodes: “The Bright Side of Hitting Rock Bottom” & “Living in Harmony with the Seasons of Your Life” 🎙️.

Grandiose vs Vulnerable Narcissism 

When we think of narcissism, we usually picture grandiose narcissism. It’s marked by arrogance, exhibitionism, and a constant need for approval.

But vulnerable narcissism is quieter. It’s rooted in insecurity and envy of others. People with these traits often feel like they’re not enough. 🤐

Both forms rely heavily on the opinions of others, focusing more on optics than living in the present. ⏳

The good news? Recognizing these traits means you can start shifting your mindset and reconnecting with your true self. 🌱

What I’ve Learned About Wellness 💖

True wellness isn’t about spending more money. It’s about being kind to yourself, having a balanced lifestyle, and taking small steps toward becoming the person you want to be. 🌸

When I had nothing, I had to slow down and do the inner work. Here are a few things I did (for FREE) to start healing and saving money:

• Going Outside/Touching Grass 🌳: Sunlight boosts your mood, and grounding with the earth calms your system.

• Moving My Body 💃: Daily movement, even a simple walk or run, is crucial for your well-being.

• Yoga/Meditation 🧘‍♀️: Accessible and free—try YouTube for guided sessions (I love Charlie Follows!).

• Cooking for Myself 🍳: Preparing meals brings peace, and making healthier choices boosts your mood.

• Deepening Friendships 🤗: Healing is a community effort—don’t isolate yourself.

• Being Kinder to Myself 🥰: Challenge negative self-talk and be more compassionate.

The Real Takeaway? 💬

Feeling good shouldn’t be a flex. It should be a fundamental part of life. 💖

Next time you’re tempted by a new wellness trend, ask yourself: Is this truly for me? Or is it just another way to keep me chasing a version of wellness I can never afford?

Because real wellness isn’t about buying more. It’s about doing less. And that’s free sister!

What Do You Think? 🗣️

I’d love to hear your thoughts—hit reply and let me know:

• ❓ Do you think wellness has become too exclusive?

• ❓ What’s one wellness habit that actually works for you (without the price tag)?

Until Next Time CTG

XOXO

ARIA :)