Aware of hidden agendas, people no longer believe in the possibility of absolute truth or complete transparency from institutions, public figures, and individuals. Yet they are still drawn to honesty, integrity, and – at times – even vulnerability, which they expect from peers and brands alike.

From decentralised autonomous organisations (DAOs) run on Discord to city-wide mutual aid groups, people are finding safety and optimism in numbers. For growing numbers of people, collective action is emerging as the only viable solution to compounding crises and deepening alienation.

We’re witnessing the ‘wellnessification’ of absolutely everything. Beyond boosting their physical health with fitness and nutrition, people are looking for a path to being well in all aspects of their lives, including their finances, careers, activism, spirituality, home design, tech usage, and so much more....

With the outside world becoming less predictable, Americans are seeking stability within themselves by focusing on self-care. But as this social phenomenon spills into multiple health and beauty categories, how can beauty brands deliver meaningful propositions around personal wellbeing?

Diagnostic health company Quest has launched a campaign focusing on humor to get people talking about physical, mental, and sexual health. By using comic relief to lessen the taboo around sexual wellbeing, Quest provides a welcome relief from the oppressive nature of many approaches to wellness.

Spanning everything from healthcare to tourism to workplace programs, wellness is a trillion-dollar industry. But who is it really for? Canvas8 spoke to dietician and author Dalia Kinsey about the impact that wellness ideals have on marginalized people and how brands can decolonize the sector.

In post-Roe v. Wade America, women are attempting to navigate the legality of abortions and are looking for support from outside the government. As people adjust to new realities around access, what long-term implications does this ruling have on women’s healthcare and reproductive rights?