Wellness is an important aspect of an individual’s life. It allows us to nurture physical and mental well-being. On account of August being Wellness month, Gauri D, caught up in an exclusive rendezvous with Dr. Rekha Chaudhari, Global Wellness Ambassador to discuss the importance of wellness initiatives. And the Government’s new guidelines for influencers and celebrities and what they entail.
August is globally celebrated as wellness month. In the spirit of promoting wellness in Indian society, the Indian government rolled out guidelines for social media wellness influencers and also celebrities. The Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution set these guidelines to ensure transparency.
To understand further about the wellness influencers and quotient, Dr Rekha Chaudhari strongly advocates digital detox and continues to work towards wellness for all.
Here’s what she had to say.
The government recently revealed new guidelines for wellness influencers. Why do you think that was important?
The government’s decision to introduce new guidelines for wellness influencers is surely an important one. People nowadays rely on influencers for advice on health and also on wellness. Without proper guidelines, there is a risk of misinformation. Furthermore, guidelines will ensure that influencer claims are backed by evidence and/or experience.
Do you think the new guidelines will push wellness influencers to earn professional licenses and certifications?
Yes, the introduction of new guidelines for wellness influencers could potentially push many of them to seek professional licenses and also certifications. Certification builds credibility and followers. Further, it will help gain a competitive advantage. It may also help avoid potential legal ramifications.
You have been an advocate of digital detox for wellness. What steps should be taken to make people more aware of it?
World Digital Detox Day Organizations have launched educational campaigns. These programs highlight the potential negative effects of excessive tech use. The establishment of tech-free zones is encouraged. Under workplace initiatives, companies can promote face-to-face interactions and also set boundaries around after-hours work communications. Benefits should be included in the school curriculum.
Wellness is seen through different lenses by many people. What do you think are the basic wellness factors?
The Basic Wellness Factors according to me are Physical, Mental, Emotional, Environmental, and Spiritual Wellness.
- Engaging in regular exercise
- Maintaining nutritional balance
- Stress management
- Fostering positive relationships
- Practising self-care
- Adopting sustainable practices
Personal introspection helps one connect with their inner calm.
Will the new guidelines give a voice to more authentic information coming through social channels? Will it encourage the people at a grassroots level?
Yes, the new guidelines could pave the way for more authentic information on social channels. It will help vet out misinformation, encouraging credible voices to come forward.
It could also empower people at the grassroots level. Give them confidence in sharing traditional practices.
What message would you convey to the industry during the wellness month of August 2023?
“I’ve been championing the essence of wellness for over a decade. I firmly believe that wellness isn’t a luxury but a fundamental birthright of every individual. Our collective health is a shared responsibility; let’s prioritize it with integrity and compassion.
The World Digital Detox Day, while serving as a reminder, also signifies that digital detox isn’t just a one-day commitment but a daily practice. Just like wellness. It’s an enduring commitment, approached with passion and personal significance.
I call upon my fellow Indian wellness leaders to embrace wellness and digital detox initiatives. Let’s remind the world that wellness isn’t a recent trend in India. It’s our heritage, embedded in our traditions, flowing through our veins, and resonating in the soil we walk upon.”
Image Courtesy: Instagram page @/drchaudhari.rekha
