Selfcare & Sexual Wellness

Trends in 2023: Focusing on Mental, Physical, and Sexual Well-being

If you are aiming for a healthier lifestyle, it might be best to leave behind certain toxic trends. Here are some of the trends that you might want to avoid:

1. “What I eat in a day” videos

Trying to emulate someone else’s meal routine is not a feasible solution, as everyone is unique, and restrictive eating can have a detrimental effect on both physical and mental health.

Nine times out of ten, these “What I Eat in a Day” videos, which are usually created with positive intentions, promote an unrealistic view of healthy eating and, in some cases, even normalize unhealthy eating habits and an obsession with food.

Despite being told that the video is “for inspiration only,” it is likely that someone trying to lose weight will follow the diet without looking into its potential health benefits or risks.

Instead of obsessing over what your favorite influencer eats in a day, take the time to take care of yourself by eating nutritious food and finding an exercise plan that is right for you; this can help to prevent a range of physical and mental health issues.

2. ‘That Girl’ and other unrealistic wellness routines

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to achieving optimal health; the wellness habits that you see people sharing on social media, such as early mornings, green juices, long skincare routines, taking supplements and wearing athleisure, are not the only way. There are plenty of other options that can be just as effective, and are simpler, more affordable and sustainable. Each individual’s health needs are unique and should be tailored to them.

3. Self-diagnosing on TikTok

Due to the proliferation of wellness influencers on social media, there is an abundance of misinformation and generic advice circulating on the internet. This makes it simple for individuals to trust the professional opinions of so-called “doctors” featured in viral videos.

It is important to speak with a medical professional and get accurate tests done in order to accurately diagnose a medical issue, as relying on videos for medical advice can be dangerous and damaging as the content may not be based on any plausible medical facts or evidence.

Wellness trends to look out for in 2023

As the health and wellness industry progresses with the changing world, each new year brings a fresh set of trends that make it easier for us to reach our health goals. We have already identified some wellness trends that will be at the forefront in 2023, so let us take a closer look at what to expect.

Wellness travel

Traveling for wellness can be beneficial for physical, mental, spiritual, emotional, and social health. It can be calming by giving travelers the opportunity to explore different cultures while also providing them with a chance to focus on their well-being

Companies are capitalizing on this trend by creating specialized wellness packages that feature activities like sound baths, recovery lounges, and “preventative” spa stays.

In the past, a vacation was an opportunity to abandon our diets and exercise regimens. Now, however, we plan our trips with a focus on relaxation, as well as personal growth and wellbeing.

Brain care

In 2021, just as we adopted self-care due to the pandemic, the upcoming year of 2023 will bring with it its own “care” trend, namely “brain care.” Nurturing your mental and neurological health goes beyond the typical idea of self-care; while self-care is any activity you do to maintain your overall well-being, brain care is a crucial element of overall health.

Taking care of your mental well-being is essential for improving your concentration, problem-solving skills, and stress management. To do this, you can engage in activities that can reduce stress and help sharpen your mind, such as reading, meditation, and playing chess.

Caring for one’s brain is connected to one’s mental health, and can be supported through activities like therapy, participating in support groups, and engaging in mindfulness practices to cultivate a positive outlook and emotional steadiness.

Sexual Wellness

The popularity of sexual wellness is projected to increase over the next few years, with the goal of helping people of all genders, orientations, and sexual experiences to become more at ease with their bodies and sexual decisions.

Different forms of sexual wellness, such as sex therapy, self-love, healthy communication, contraception and sex education, are becoming increasingly accepted. This is reflected in the growing availability of sex toys and other sexual wellness products in stores, as well as a reduced stigma surrounding pleasure.

As technology progresses, more apps and services have been developed to assist people in understanding their reproductive health, while an increasing number of individuals are having open conversations about issues like consent, body image, and pleasure related to sexual wellness.

As more data is made accessible, individuals are able to take a better informed stance on their sexual health and well-being.

Habits to continue in 2023

We don’t believe wellness needs to be a one-size-fits-all approach; it should be tailored to the individual. Drinking a matcha latte in the morning and practicing yoga daily may not be what works for everyone, but as long as your daily habits and lifestyle choices make you feel better than the year before, you are on the right track.

The good thing is, it all begins at home. Therefore, continue to adhere to these 5 fundamental wellness principles in 2023 to attain a healthier, more content version of yourself:

1. Ensure you get at least 7-hours of sleep

2. Move your body daily

3. Eat well-balanced meals

4. Build healthy habits

5. Prioritize your self-care.

You don’t have to follow the latest wellness trend or buy expensive products to be healthier; only you know what is best for your body and your needs, so it is up to you to decide what is healthiest for you.

Selfcare & Sexual Wellness

Legal to Sell, Illegal to Buy: The Paradox of France’s Prostitution Law

The European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) on Thursday ruled that France’s criminalization of the sale and purchase of sexual acts/prostitution does not constitute a violation of Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).

Case Overview

The case, M.A. and Others v France was ruled unanimously. 261 applicants complained against Law no. 2016-444 of 13 April 2016, which aimed at criminalizing prostitution in France. This law intended to “strengthen the fight against the prostitution system and provide support to prostituted individuals.” Applicants relied on Articles 2, 3, and 8 of the ECHR for their case. These individuals argued that criminalizing the purchase of sexual acts affects the physical and mental integrity of individuals who commonly participate in prostitution and violates their right to private life, personal autonomy, and sexual freedom.

Legal Reasoning

The Court judged the applicants’ complaint principally based on Article 8 ECHR, which refers to the right to respect for everyone’s private and family life. According to the official document, interference with this right is unacceptable except when done “in accordance with the law and as is necessary for a democratic society in the interests of national security, public safety or the economic well-being.” The French Government submitted that the aim of Law no. 2016-444 was “combatting prostitution rings and human-trafficking networks,” which the Court considered a legitimate aim within the meaning of Article 8 ECHR.

Ethical Considerations and International Consensus

During the judgment, the ECtHR also referred to the moral and ethical “sensitivity” of the problems linked with prostitution. It specified the lack of consensus among the European and international community on how to address prostitution correctly. Reem Alsalem, UN Special Rapporteur on violence against women and girls, in 2023, commented on French Law no. 2016-444. The Special Rapporteur argued in favor of the comprehensive approach taken by the law, stating:

“Far from ensuring access to the rights guaranteed by articles 2, 3, and 8 of the ECHR, the potential repeal of the criminalization of the purchase of sexual acts would further expose the most discriminated women and girls, who are the overwhelming majority in the sex trade, to the control, violence, and inhumane and degrading treatment of trafficking networks and sex buyers.”

Legal to Sell, Illegal to Buy

French law presents an unusual dynamic where it is legal to sell sex but illegal to buy it. This approach aims to reduce demand for prostitution while protecting those who may be forced into selling sex due to economic hardship or coercion. The logic is that by targeting buyers, the law reduces the market for prostitution, thereby decreasing the exploitation of vulnerable individuals.

Ongoing Debate

Despite this ruling, the criminalization of prostitution remains a heated debate with conflicting opinions. The ECtHR held that France had not overstepped its discretion and did not violate Article 8 of the Convention. However, it emphasized the duty of the French Government to constantly review its legislation and amend the law as European and international standards evolve on the matter.

Conclusion

The ruling underscores the complexity of addressing prostitution through legal means. While France’s approach aims to combat human trafficking and protect vulnerable individuals, it also faces criticism and demands for ongoing scrutiny and adjustment. The dichotomy of legalizing the sale but criminalizing the purchase of sex continues to be a contentious and ethically sensitive issue, reflecting broader global debates on the most effective and humane ways to handle prostitution.

Source: jurist.org

Selfcare & Sexual Wellness

Le Shaw teams up with Woodhull Freedom Foundation to champion sexual rights and freedom

Le Shaw, the International Sexual Health and Wellness Research Institute, is thrilled to announce its new collaboration with the Woodhull Freedom Foundation, an organization dedicated to advocating for sexual freedom as a fundamental human right. Named after suffragist Victoria Woodhull, the foundation focuses on challenging sexual repression and advocating for the rights and freedoms of all individuals.

Through this partnership, le Shaw will support Woodhull’s mission with its research capabilities and commitment to sex-positive principles. Their joint efforts will advance the dialogue around sexual rights, promote a culture of sexual liberation and human dignity, and help build a more equitable and informed society.

Bobbi Bidochka, Director of le Shaw, was excited to start working together: “The Woodhull Freedom Foundation’s commitment to sexual freedom resonates deeply with our mission at le Shaw. Together, we will work to dismantle the barriers of sexual repression and promote a more inclusive and respectful understanding of sexual rights as fundamental human rights.”

For more information about le Shaw and its partnership with the Woodhull Freedom Foundation, please contact bobbi.bidochka@byborgenterprises.com.

Latest News

Etsy Bans Adult Toys and Accessories

Etsy, the popular e-commerce platform, will no longer allow the sale of adult toys and sexual accessories. The company announced this policy change in a recent memo, sparking frustration and anger among its loyal vendors. Starting July 29, Etsy will remove listings for sex toys such as dildos, vibrators, and similar products, as well as items depicting sexual acts, genitalia, or sexually charged slogans related to familial relationships like “daddy” or “mommy.”

Alice Wu, head of Etsy’s trust and safety team, stated the policy was updated to “keep our users safe.” However, vendors have criticized the decision as “lazy” and a “crushing disappointment.”

“The ban will essentially close the doors of many handmade makers in the adult toy realm like ourselves,” said Preston Stevenson, an Etsy vendor, in an interview with The Guardian. For small shops like his, which have invested significant time on Etsy, the 30 days’ notice is insufficient to transition to a new platform with similar traffic and exposure.

Stevenson and his partner Laura Norden, who have been selling handmade sex toys since 2018, expressed concern that their site traffic will not recover if they move to another platform. “Bans like this one further the idea that sexual health and pleasure are taboo or something to be ashamed of,” he added. “It has broader impacts on society as a whole.”

Alexandra Houston, founder of the UK-based fetish apparel platform Charmskool, criticized Etsy for catering to the mass market instead of remaining loyal to its users. “Etsy wants anything creative as long as it is beige and middle of the road. It doesn’t want anything risqué anymore,” Houston told The Guardian, noting an increase in former Etsy vendors migrating to Charmskool.

Simply Elegant Glass, another affected vendor, penned an open letter to Etsy on Twitter, condemning the company for its “lazy solution” under the guise of community safety. “Protecting children from adult content is a noble interest, and we agree it should be pursued. But that’s not what you’re doing here, is it?” the vendor wrote, arguing that a blanket ban is an easy fix for non-compliance issues Etsy created. “It’s a solution that targets buyer retention and appeases investors and advertisers.”

The transition to other platforms is complicated by many payment processors’ refusal to work with vendors advertising adult toys. Anna, founder of Simply Elegant Glass, told the BBC she feels “betrayed” by Etsy’s new policies. “As creators who have helped make Etsy what it is and remained loyal for years, we feel betrayed,” she said, advocating for explicit labeling of sexual products rather than an outright ban.

According to Anna, a large portion of their profits came from Etsy sales, and moving to a new e-commerce site would be like starting from scratch. Other vendors echoed her concerns, worried that new platforms may not generate enough income.

“It’s like having your house burnt down,” Houston said, reflecting on the difficulties of establishing a new business presence after relying on Etsy for years.

This decision by Etsy is not only a business challenge for vendors but also raises questions about societal views on sexual health and pleasure. Many see the ban as a step backward, reinforcing outdated taboos and stigmas.
This decision by Etsy is not only a business challenge for vendors but also raises questions about societal views on sexual health and pleasure. Many see the ban as a step backward, reinforcing outdated taboos and stigmas.

Source: BBC