Run clubs are becoming social lifelines. In a world that feels increasingly digital, they bring people together with movement. According to the Strava Year in Sport report, 58% of runners say they’ve made new friends through fitness groups. One in five Gen Z participants has even dated someone they met through a run club.

Across North America and Europe, collectives like Slow Girl Run Club and No More Lonely Runs in New York are reframing running as a social outlet. Slow Girl Run Club welcomes women of all abilities to relaxed 5 K runs followed by casual hangouts. In Germany, Laufklub Berlin e.V. builds community for runners at every level. The Rolling Mile in Berlin focuses on inclusivity and genuine connection. In São Paulo, Inner Circle’s Run in Love initiative encourages single runners to wear blue socks as a signal of openness to friendship or dating. This gives proof that modern run clubs care as much about connection as they do about cardio.

In Asia, running is blending with nightlife and mindfulness to attract younger audiences. No Rules Run Club in Seoul hosts post-run DJ sets, while Wyrd Running in Hong Kong uses Celtic symbolism and mindfulness to reconnect runners with nature. In the UK, Ravers2Runners organizes 5K “festival runs” around Glastonbury, merging club culture with wellness. Together, they show how running has evolved from a solitary pursuit into a shared social scene. Care to join the movement? Read on!

A global movement, locally grounded

Run clubs thrive because they build hyperlocal belonging within global networks. In Japan, university running circles and campus-based clubs continue to play a central role in student life, blending wellness, teamwork, and self-expression with sport. Universities like Waseda and Tokyo Tech highlight the growing popularity of track-and-field clubs that welcome both competitive and recreational runners. These spaces foster friendship and creative collaboration as much as athletic achievement.

In Kenya, youth athletics programs are evolving into community enterprises that pair training with mentorship and social entrepreneurship. Programs like Kijana Ajibika have grown from 30 to 58 clubs, engaging over 1,300 youth through running and mentorship. Organizations such as Athletics Kenya and Kea Jenga Athletics Club are building similar pathways, using sport as a platform for empowerment and inclusion.

In Mexico, cult brand Hermanos Koumori has turned running into a creative, nature-connected lifestyle, partnering with adidas on mountain-inspired apparel. In Australia, Fractel Community Mission links running with environmental action, encouraging participants to collect litter or plant native seeds after every run. These initiatives show how, for the next generation, running goes beyond workout: it offers a way to give back.

Inclusivity is another major driver. Nike’s After Dark Tour, held in London, Mumbai, and Los Angeles, invites women to run safely after sunset with female coaches and reflective gear. ASICS’ NAGINO campaign reframes running as collective wellness with the tagline “Move your body and mind in harmony.” Meanwhile, PUMA’s Go Wild and On Running’s Soft Wins celebrate joy and community over speed, encouraging what runners affectionately call “smiles over miles.”

The road ahead

As youth running evolves, its real power lies in belonging over performance. Run clubs form the new social hubs: places where wellness, creativity, and culture intersect. From Mexico City to Manchester, Tokyo to Toronto, running is transforming from a solitary ritual into a shared identity.

For innovators and brands, the opportunity runs deeper than sport. These communities channel energy, motion, and emotion into new ideas. Think scent and skincare that move with the body, or hydration and recovery rituals that extend the post-run high. Running is reshaping fitness and it is shaping the next wave of lifestyle innovation.

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What if the secret to next-level hydration came from the desert? Meet the prickly pear cactus, a resilient plant known for thriving where few others can. Its ability to lock in moisture against heat and drought is now inspiring a new generation of beauty formulas. Once a niche botanical, Vogue first described it as a “cactus-derived skin-protecting ingredient”. Today, it has become a global phenomenon —from Seoul to San Francisco—appearing in serums, oils, and hair masks. Keep reading to see why this spiky survivor is shaping the future of beauty!

Why the buzz is real

On social media, as of October 2025, #pricklypear had over 91 million views on TikTok, as creators showcase its hydrating “vegan mucin” texture in dewy-skin routines. Glow Recipe’s Prickly Pear Peptide Mucin Serum, made with 81 percent cactus mucin and bioactive peptides, sparked a viral wave of before-and-after posts. Reviewers at Refinery29 and Who What Wear praised its glass-skin finish and gentle barrier support.

Industry experts are taking notice, too. Cosmetics Business reports an 84% surge in cactus-oil launches, calling prickly pear a new “hero ingredient” for scalp care. That momentum mirrors the ingredient’s crossover into body and hair care, proof that consumers want consistent hydration from head to toe.

Meanwhile, Byrdie calls prickly pear “one of nature’s richest sources of vitamin E and antioxidants,” while Vogue Scandinavia celebrates its barrier-strengthening benefits and soft, fast-absorbing texture.

A future built on resilience

Prickly pear’s power lies in its composition. The seed oil contains vitamin E, linoleic acid, and betalains, which help calm and protect the skin. It’s also rare: it takes nearly a ton of fruit to produce a single liter of seed oil, making it one of beauty’s most luxurious natural extracts. Brands are leveraging that premium appeal in everything from Klorane’s Hydration & Shine line, sourced in Puebla, Mexico, to Kahina Giving Beauty’s desert-inspired face oils.

For Mexican-American founder Sandra Velasquez, whose brand Nopalera celebrates the cactus under its Spanish name nopal, the ingredient carries deep cultural meaning. Her mission: to showcase Latin heritage through sustainable botanicals mirrors a larger shift in beauty toward authenticity and traceability.

Market analysts expect prickly-pear-based products to grow about 7 percent annually through 2030, driven by rising demand for plant-powered hydration. From luxury serums to scalp treatments, consumers are embracing its story of survival and renewal. As Fashion Magazine notes, prickly pear joins the global wave of “precision naturals”:  ingredients that combine efficacy, sustainability, and sensory appeal.

More than a passing fad, prickly pear represents beauty’s new balance — performance with provenance. Its journey from arid landscapes to glossy vanities proves that resilience unites plant trait with good care mindsets. One that continues to inspire innovation in hydration, sensorial texture, and natural protection.

This same resilience drives Symrise’s work with cactus-derived actives, transforming desert endurance into modern, sustainable hydration. Learn more here!.

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Did you realize the role collagen plays in everything from structure to stamina?

Grand View Research projects the global collagen market to reach $18.7 billion by 2030, with a CAGR of 11.3%. Collagen has been trending in food, beverage, and beauty products. Tastewise reported that social conversations about collagen have increased by 7% over the past year. Curious about the latest collagen applications to support your health? Read on!

Collagen & protein hand-in-hand

The collagen market brims with activity. Vital Proteins recently decided to serve up collagen at the U.S. Open! The Nestlé Health Science-owned brand showcased a Collagen & Protein Shake as the tennis championship’s first-ever “Official Collagen Partner.” With 30 grams of protein and 10 grams of collagen peptides per serving, the shake demonstrates the complementary relationship between collagen and protein. In fact, the latest collagen launches feature protein. Urban Remedy introduced two organic, high-protein collagen meal-replacement shakes formulated with organic bovine grass-fed collagen peptides. While both the Chocolate and Vanilla Organic Protein Collagen Shakes include 10 g of organic collagen, they also offer 30 and 28 g of protein, respectively. Refuel Protein Bar has joined the LTH portfolio of collagen-rich products. Per the brand, this “replenishing and energizing bar” provides 15 g of protein, dairy-free grass-fed collagen, and pea protein, with no added sugar!

Unique sources of collagen

Collagen finds its way into novel delivery systems and emerges from unique sources. Post-surgery-like Skims Seamless Sculpt Face Wrap was made with a signature fabric of “collagen yarns.” Recently, Canada-based biopolymer maker 3DBioFibR Inc. closed a $3m round of equity financing for the company’s production of collagen fibers. Ashland has recently launched Collapeptyl, which reportedly offers a new chapter in collagen science by delivering a biomimetic solution that harmonizes with the skin’s natural structure. Symrise offers a selection of unique, collagen-rich ingredients for joint health, carefully produced in a French facility focused on chicken. All-in-one solutions include different types of collagen peptides, combined with chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid from select edible chicken parts. These Symrise raw materials are 2.5% less carbon-emissive than those sourced from beef.

Beauty benefits and beyond

Collagen in skincare continues to capture consumer attention, both for its association with beauty benefits and also for the broader experience it offers. For example,  Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask gets praised for its moisturizing and calming properties, with studies suggesting it may help support the skin barrier. Collagen formats are also gaining traction—sheet masks, eye patches, and creams are spotlighted across beauty media. Vogue Business’ Beauty Tracker names Collagen eye patches a leading trend. Elle spotlights the “11 Best Collagen Face Creams for Plumping Fine Lines in 2025.” Meanwhile, Harper’s Bazaar dives into the efficacy debate, featuring dermatologist insights from TikTok’s @dr.mamima on how to choose safe, effective products. To support skin condition & anti-aging, and nail beauty from within, Symrise designed Collachic. This versatile hydrolyzed chicken extract powder is composed of type I collagen peptides and can be used in many beauty formats, including capsules, hot drinks, and shots!

Joint health and mobility

According to Mintel, 64% of UK Baby Boomers (57-75) are interested and willing to pay more for functional foods and beverages that improve muscle and joint health. Symrise recently launched Chondractiv Move, a 4-in-1 collagen and rosehip formula designed for active women over 40, clinically shown to deliver significant results in menopausal women. Symrise continues to expand its science-backed collagen range, offering natural solutions that support daily wellness and the growing collagen hydration trend.

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Ideating for the next-gen consumer

Approximately 70% of the immune system originates in the gut – says modern science. That insight highlights a strong connection between digestion and overall health. With this knowledge, consumers are rethinking their routines. They’re chasing energy, immunity, balance, and hydration. Wellness becomes intentional, personal, and a conscious decision.

As a result, a new wave of health-focused innovation is taking shape. Nutrition, sensory experience, and wellness come together via personal, cross-disciplinary solutions. Global gut health and hydration products reflect this shift. Formulas grow smarter. Postbiotics, precision fermentation, and microbiome-focused blends gain traction. Probiotic and prebiotic drinks now target digestion, ease feelings of fullness, and support overall well-being from within. The goal? A diet that feels good and tastes better. Curious where this ecosystem leads? Read on!

Ready-to-drink innovation accelerates

Are you constantly heading somewhere? The ready-to-drink (RTD) category continues to evolve, appealing to those seeking convenient ways to support their gut health on the go. One brand, microbz, employs the way nature has supported human health for centuries. The drinkable shot brand harnesses bacteria directly from UK soil and ferments them with generous doses of medicinal herbs and minerals. The result? An award-winning supplement (British Vogue & Wellness From Within Gold, 2024) designed to ease gut issues linked to a depleted microbiome. The fermented product, with a pH of 3.2, was designed to survive stomach acid and was formulated as a liquid for improved absorption. Another UK-based development, Remedy Drinks, offers a range of fermented beverages rich in live cultures and probiotics. From kombucha to gut-friendly tonics, Remedy provides a refreshing and effective way to support digestive health. These drinks taste good and are also packed with antioxidants and probiotics to support your gut health every day.

Healthier hydration products

Also driven by on-the-go wellness trends, healthier hydration products are quickly becoming the drink of choice in workplace convenience channels. Alex Edwards, Senior National Sales Director for Hint Inc., says consumer demand for “better for you” options is growing in the workplace. Hint’s flavored waters tap into that shift. The still versions utilize essential oils to achieve a naturally fruity taste. The sparkling line adds electrolytes for a refreshing, fizzy boost. Convenience, he adds, continues to play a major role in workplace channels. Grab-and-go with free of sugar, calories, or sweeteners help consumers stay hydrated with Hint all day long!

Along with the rise in wellness programs among corporations, employers have begun stocking break rooms and vending machines with improved hydration products. Matt Levine, Founder of Chlorophyll Water, says: “There is a growing shift toward functional beverages that support wellness, energy, and hydration.” Chlorophyll Water offers a plant-powered mountain spring water that meets the standards of the Clean Label Project. They have tested their products for more than 90 environmental toxins, harmful chemicals, and plasticizers. The chlorophyll-enhanced water contains essential vitamins A, B12, C, and D.

Smart formulations for everyday wellness

Symrise continues to prioritize tailored solutions that support digestive health and overall well-being. Responding to this demand, the team developed Prunease, a novel prune juice concentrate from the diana food portfolio. In partnership with Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine and the University of Technology, Symrise conducted a clinical trial with 38 participant volunteers experiencing digestive irregularity. After two weeks, findings suggested the role of the concentrate, at a low dose of 15ml, in supporting normal bowel function and activity.

The diana food portfolio features natural ingredients designed to support daily wellness. These clean-label options offer a simple, effective alternative to traditional sports drinks. Acerola adds vitamin C to support energy. Coconut water provides potassium to help muscles work properly. Bee4Perf includes plant-based compounds that may support physical performance.For joint health and mobility, Chondractiv Move blends collagen, hyaluronic acid, and other nutrients. These solutions are made to support active lifestyles and help people feel their best every day.

From seasonal sips to smart supplements, summer represents the ideal time to refresh routines, support digestion, and stay balanced. As consumers look for functional benefits in every bottle, the intersection of hydration, mobility, and gut health continues to shape the next generation of wellness drinks Discover how Symrise and the diana food portfolio support brands with natural ingredients and smart, lifestyle-focused solutions!

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When did you last apply sunscreen to your scalp? Often overlooked, a major share of sunrays hits the scalp and makes it one of the most sun-exposed parts of the body. At the same time, it hardly ever gets protected. On top, as the highest point on the body, it is directly facing the sun, which makes it especially vulnerable. For those with bald spots or thin hair, the risk rises even more. While a burnt scalp may seem like a minor nuisance, it can lead to serious consequences. Read on to explore why this sun-sensitive zone deserves more attention and how beauty and wellness brands are stepping in with smarter solutions.

Get moving

What makes the scalp so sensitive to sun damage? It gets often exposed without protection, especially along the part line, crown, and hairline. Over time, this exposure can lead to changes in the skin. In some cases, it may increase the risk of skin cancer. Around 80% of annual skin cancers occur on the head and neck. This applies especially to those with fair skin or a history of sun exposure. It presents a real challenge to detect melanomas on the scalp early, making regular checks crucial.

We recommend making your hairstylist a helpful ally. The Skin Cancer Foundation created ‘Heads Up!’, a program that teaches beauty professionals to spot early warning signs. At your next appointment, ask your stylist to flag anything that looks curious. A quick check could help keep your scalp healthy all summer.

New formulations target hairlines and parts

Yes, you need to wear a good sunscreen on your scalp if you plan to go outdoors for an extended period. While your hair provides some coverage, your hairline and part line are subjected to an increased risk of developing cancer, making sun protection critical. Make it your routine to cover babies’ and kids’ scalps too, with their fine hair and vulnerable skin burning fast. Altogether, you should consider applying sunscreen to your scalp an absolute must. While traditional sunscreen lotions and creams may feel unpleasant to apply, new mist and powder formulations – specifically designed for use on the delicate hairline and other sensitive areas – b ring ease of application.

Dermatologists are referring to hair parts as a “high-burn zone,” and recommend scalp-specific protection products as the new summer must-haves! The ideal options need to feature non-greasy, lightweight, and easy to apply formulas. For instance, sunbathers can easily use scalp sprays, such as Coola’s Scalp & Hair Mist without leaving behind residue. Other simple spray options with SPF 30 include Malibu Scalp Protector or this mineral spray, which protects colored hair from fading. Powdered sunscreens offer great protection for the scalp and act like a dry shampoo, leaving no residue, making LFCFBH’s SPF 50 Powder Sunscreen for Scalp a great option. Also with its high sun protection factor, the breathable powder allows the pores “inhale” and “exhale”, maintaining the health of the scalp. Recent entry, Oars + Alps Face + Scalp Mist SPF 35, offers the perfect all-in-one solution for face and scalp.

Check your scalp regularly

Want to know how to aid prevention on your own? Perform regular self-examinations of your scalp to check for any changes in moles, freckles, or other skin abnormalities. Consult a dermatologist if you notice any suspicious or concerning lesions. Symrise has prioritized sun protection throughout its history as a partner to the beauty and skincare industries. For over 80 years, Symrise has lead the field as a pioneer in skin protection, offering a comprehensive portfolio of ingredients that protect against UVA, UVB, and infrared light. As awareness grows, the scalp is finally getting the attention it deserves in the sun care conversation.

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Sleep, the new beauty secret—while most people aren’t getting enough. On average, they log 6.4 hours of sleep a night, falling short of their ideal 7.4 hours. Stress only makes it worse. The good news? A new wave of sleep-friendly beauty rises. From dreamy supplements to glow-boosting night creams and calming functional drinks, rest gets a serious upgrade. These products entail valuable rituals to help unwind, restore, and wake up radiant. Read on to see how sleep becomes the ultimate beauty power move.

Double-duty beauty while you sleep

Harper’s BAZAAR’s Go To Bed With Me series may have sparked a movement. According to Vogue Business, sleep has become a status symbol of beauty. Wind-down routines work as the new social flex. Nighttime beauty is booming. Estée Lauder is leading the charge. The brand launched Advanced Night Repair over 40 years ago. Now, it’s doubling down. Earlier this year, Estée Lauder named sleep scientist Dr. Matthew Walker its first Global Sleep Science Advisor.

The iconic line has evolved. New launches include:

• Repair Cleansing Gelee with 15 amino acids
• Advanced Night Repair Serum with multi-recovery complex
• Eye Repair Concentrate
• Supercharged Gel Creme Synchronized Multi-Recovery Eye Cream

Estée Lauder has continued to expand clinical research into “sleep science”, focusing on the biological behaviors of skin during sleep. The brand unveiled findings suggesting that the visible effects of poor sleep on the skin can potentially be reversed. The brand patented a peptide called tripeptide-32, which claims to help resynchronize the skin’s circadian rhythm. The latest Advanced Night Repair Eye Lift + Sculpt serum is set to launch this summer, with additional products in the franchise to follow.

Sleep innovation has added to new products to the much appreciated serums. Vichy took things further with the launch of Mineral 89 Moisture Recovery in February. The formula uses melatonin, the trending, clinically proven ingredient known to help regulate the skin’s circadian rhythm. No7 followed suit. The brand reformulated its No7 Night Complex and Pre-Sleep Fragrance, adding powerful antioxidants and humectants to boost overnight results. In March 2024, Therabody introduced science into the mix. A new medical advisory board now backs its research on sleep tech. Devices like the Therabody Sleep Mask and Smart Goggles are designed to support deeper rest and amplify beauty benefits by morning.

Retailers & brands expand sleep offerings

Have you noticed an increase in products featuring the word “sleep” in their names? Space NK, the beloved UK-based beauty retailer, has certainly added to the trend. Kourtney Kardashian Barker, looking to globally expand her beloved line of science-backed supplements, partnered with iherb, particularly on her lemme SLEEP tight gummies. Luxury hotels and gyms, including Six Senses and Equinox, offer blackout rituals, sleep coaching, and in-room breathwork menus.

Symrise reported on this growing direction early on! Sales of sleep-encouraging pillow sprays have grown by 81 per cent in 2025, according to Clearpay. On Pinterest, searches for “going to sleep” routines have increased by 360 percent this year compared to 2024.

As consumers redefine health, the sleep economy stands to benefit. Management consultancy McKinsey forecasts sleep wearables will reach $32 billion by 2026, nearly triple their 2019 value of $11 billion. Sleep aids reached $4.8 billion in global sales in 2024, up from $3.4 billion in 2019, according to Euromonitor. This shift presents significant growth potential for brands that can discover new ways to promote good sleep across skincare, wellness, and technology. Brands such as Cuddle Sleep Health exemplify this shift. Their Luminous Blue Instagram offers both solid advice and product support!

Mushroom-derived products are gaining popularity for sleep support, thanks to their adaptogenic and neuroprotective properties, as noted by Symrise. Beyond blankets and sheets, adaptive sleepwear and smart bedding blend fashion and function to meet the rising demand of consumers. As sleep evolves into a marker of status and wellness, brands continue to invest in science, personalization, and clinical results—reshaping the bedtime economy.

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Soap may seem like an everyday staple. We find its story particularly remarkable. With roots stretching back thousands of years, soap has served as so much more than a mere tool for cleanliness. It symbolized luxury, art, and culture. From ancient Babylon to modern Paris, soap can do more for you than washing. It connects to the past, indulges in beauty, and transforms a daily ritual into something functional and profound. Read on to look at how this modest bar has evolved into something truly everlasting.

Ancient wisdom: soap’s beginnings and enduring methods

Has hygiene become an obsession in modern times? Quite the contrary. Soap-making spans nearly 5,000 years, connecting us to a rich historical tradition. Archaeologists have found traces of soap in ancient Babylonian clay artifacts, complete with recipes etched into the surface. In Aleppo, artisans crafted their version by blending olive oil, laurel berry oil, and lye and cooling it underground into avocado-green sheets. Remarkably, we still use this method today, a testament to the enduring legacy of ancient wisdom.

Legend even links Cleopatra to the legacy of Aleppo soap, with stories of the Egyptian queen bathing in milk and using the olive oil blend to nourish her skin. Fast-forward to 13^th-century Florence, where Santa Maria Novella, the world’s oldest pharmacy, began as a convent where Dominican monks hand-crafted remedies and soaps using natural ingredients. They produced creations like buttery milk soaps, a tradition that continues today. Infused with patchouli, verbena, or left neutral, these luxurious bars combine ancient monastic craftsmanship with timeless elegance. Experience the legacy of Santa Maria Novella at boutiques in Seoul, Sydney, Miami, or Bangkok, or order online to enjoy this Florentine heritage at home. Their luxurious creations also make perfect gifts for any occasion!

Nostalgia and luxury: soap in the 20th century 

The mid-20^th century brought soap into the cultural spotlight in surprising ways, sparking nostalgia and appreciation for its influence. Brands like Pears and Cussons sponsored radio and TV programs, giving rise to the term “soap operas.” Even the world of high fashion took note—when photographer Cecil Beaton was asked to define elegance, he replied without hesitation: “Soap and water!” It’s easy to imagine Beaton’s muses—Maria Callas, Barbra Streisand, or Baroness Fiona Thyssen-Bornemisza—relaxing after a long day with a rose-scented Dior soap bar. Dior continues this legacy today with its Prestige Le Savon line, a reimagined nod to mid-century luxury.

Around the same time, Diptyque began elevating soap to an art form. Their smooth, glossy bars, embossed with elegant typography, look almost too beautiful to use. Watching the lettering fade with each wash feels bittersweet and poetic—a reminder of life’s fleeting beauty.

Meanwhile, Yardley of London emerged as a quintessential symbol of British refinement. Famous for their lavender soap, Yardley became synonymous with sophistication, gracing the vanities of post-war households. The brand’s floral-scented bars and elegant packaging reflected an enduring charm that bridged nostalgia and modernity. 

Modern artistry: design and functionality in soap 

In recent years, soap has seen a renaissance as a functional product and a design statement, intriguing and appreciative of its versatility. Even artists have explored its potential. In Thomas Barnthaler’s 2015 book Do It Yourself: 50 Projects by Designers and Artists, John Baldessari provided instructions on soap carving in a work titled A Large Piece of Soap Becomes a Small Piece of Soap Eventually. His playful approach reflects the ephemeral nature of soap while elevating it to an art form.

At Salone del Mobile 2024 in Milan, architect Nicolas Schuybroek collaborated with Aesop to create an installation called Form Follows Formulation. Using Aesop’s cleansing slabs as building blocks, Schuybroek crafted a monolithic structure that celebrated simplicity and elegance.

Fashion brands have also embraced soap’s artistic side. Loewe’s Scent of Marihuana bar, for instance, pairs exfoliating red algae with a soothing sativa aroma, complete with a linen rope for decorative display. Meanwhile, French brand Provendi has reimagined wall-mounted soaps as rotating sculptures, combining charm with practicality.

From ancient traditions to modern reinvention, soap transcends serving as a mere cleanser. We marvel at it as a piece of history, a canvas for artistry, and a small luxury that enriches daily life. Symrise, too, drives innovation in the soap category—explore the latest breakthroughs here. Next time you lather up, pause to appreciate its journey, craftsmanship, and the simple joy it brings. While soap may vanish with each use, its allure and impact remain timeless.

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The rugged Cederberg Mountains of South Africa offer the only place on earth where the hardy rooibos shrub thrives. Enduring scorching summers and freezing winters, rooibos, known as “red bush” in Afrikaans, has become a global favorite. Its rich aroma, natural sweetness, and perceived wellness appeal have made it a global favorite in kitchens, rituals, and design.

Beyond its distinctive flavor and uses, rooibos carries a fascinating history and cultural legacy, deeply connected to the Indigenous people of South Africa. From ancient medicinal practices to modern innovations, rooibos continues to inspire and captivate. Curious to learn how this remarkable plant has shaped traditions, industries, and lifestyles? Read on to explore its story!

Exploring the Rooibos route

The Rooibos Route, launched in 2012 by Sanet Stander, offers an engaging way to discover the history and significance of rooibos. Visitors can tour farms, factories, and tea shops while experiencing rooibos creatively. Tink milkshakes, martinis, steak sauces, and also spa treatments.

Highlights include the Wupperthal Original Rooibos Cooperative in the Tra-Tra Valley, where over 70 Indigenous farmers cultivate rooibos on modest plots, harvesting by hand with sickles. The cooperative operates from a 19th-century thatched-roof building, offering insight into traditional farming practices and cultural heritage.

The Ou Tronk Museum in Clanwilliam showcases rooibos’s journey to global prominence. It features antique tools, vintage packaging, and exhibits on its processing history. At Skimmelberg, an organic farm, visitors can watch the transformation of vibrant orange leaves into tea during the fermentation and drying process.

For indulgence, the Carmién Tea Shop near Citrusdal offers wine and tea pairings featuring rooibos paired with small bites for a sophisticated take on this South African staple.

A cultural and historical journey

The history of rooibos is firmly linked with South Africa’s Indigenous people, particularly the San, who first used the plant as medicine. For centuries, they relied on rooibos’s unique polyphenols, such as aspalathin, to help promote health. The San’s cultural legacy also lives on in South Africa’s ancient rock art. At Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve, over 130 rock art sites—some dating back 10,000 years—offer a glimpse into the spiritual world of South Africa’s earliest inhabitants.

While Rooibos enjoyed global success, indigenous farmers historically saw little of its economic benefits. This changed with a significant milestone in 2021, when Rooibos became the first African product to receive “protected designation of origin” status, similar to Champagne in France. This recognition ensures the name “Rooibos” remains exclusive to South Africa and formally acknowledges Indigenous farmers as traditional knowledge holders. Community trusts now receive 1.5% of the annual raw Rooibos sales, funding development and aid projects to secure a sustainable future for these communities.

Rooibos today: health benefits and modern uses

In skincare, Rooibos’s antioxidants can potentially help signs of aging, combat free radicals, and enhance skin elasticity. Brands like African Extracts Rooibos and African Botanics incorporate rooibos into facial creams and serums, while spas along the Rooibos Route offer rooibos-infused scrubs and massages. Everyday products like Terres d’Afrique Gentle Facial Scrub benefit homes worldwide.

Culinary uses highlight rooibos’s earthy, slightly sweet flavor. Chefs enhance marinades, desserts like panna cotta, and sauces with rooibos. Tea brands such as Teekanne and Eleven O’Clock offer premium blends, while Twinings of London features Pure Rooibos Red Tea pods for Keurig. Ready-to-drink options like BOS Iced Tea and Rooibos-infused craft beers showcase its versatility.

Rooibos’s influence extends to fashion and design. Pantone’s Rooibos Tea” color (Pantone 18-1355 TCX), a rich, earthy tone, evokes warmth and natural beauty. This shade aligns with interior design trends, creating cozy and inviting spaces.

From its medicinal roots to its role in beauty, cuisine, and design, rooibos continues to inspire innovation and cultural significance. Its legacy honors the traditions of South Africa’s Indigenous people while adapting to modern tastes and trends. Whether enjoyed as a tea, embraced in skincare, or admired in design, rooibos continues as a symbol of resilience, creativity, and tradition. How will you incorporate rooibos into your routine? Comment below and share your thoughts!

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Valentine’s Day 2025 celebrates love in every form. Around the globe, people express affection, friendship, and admiration. Some send heartfelt messages to friends, family, and partners. Others surprise loved ones with flowers, candy, or creative cards. You may consider planning a romantic dinner! Valentine’s Day highlights unique traditions that reflect the vibrant diversity of cultures worldwide.

In Estonia, friends exchange thoughtful gifts, candles, and cards. In Wales, couples honor Saint Dwynwen, the patron saint of lovers, with beautifully carved wooden love spoons. South Korea shines a spotlight on singles with “Black Day,” where friends gather to enjoy black bean noodles. Ghana transforms the day into National Chocolate Day, celebrating the cocoa industry with tastings, dinners, and festive events. The Philippines hosts grand weddings, uniting hundreds of couples in love.

Across South America, couples savor the occasion with intimate romantic dinners in countries like Argentina, Peru, Russia, and Colombia. No matter where you celebrate, Valentine’s Day reminds everyone to cherish the people who matter most. How will you make February 14 memorable this year?

Bridget plays cupid globally

Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy will start in theaters internationally on February 12, 2025, and in the United States on February 13, 2025. France will open on February 12, Argentina, Australia, Denmark on February 13, and the United Kingdom on February 14. The highly anticipated rom-com sequel (nine years since the third in the series) will be available to stream exclusively on Peacock in the United States. Nine previous cast members will reprise their roles in this story, which now finds Bridget widowed in her fifties, navigating the love of their child, and finding love again. Her bravery and devil-may-care attitude have inspired others before!

Rihanna sends hearts to all

The singer’s brand, Savage X Fenty, released a collection of lingerie, sleepwear, lounge, and accessories, highlighting love in all forms. The accompanying Love Your Way campaign stars the singer alongside Love Is Blind’s Serena Page and Kordell Beckham, model RJ King, and chef DeVonn Francis. It also features sisters, TikTok sensations Hayley and Jules LeBlanc, and friends and models Jade Gordon, Minami Gessel, and Noni Cyngor. The campaign’s imagery highlights romantic love, self-love, familial love, and the beauty of friendship. “Valentine’s Day is a time to celebrate love in all its forms,” says Rihanna. “At Savage X Fenty, we’re all about embracing love in every way and creating products that let people feel confident while doing so.” Check out a few standouts from the collection and shop the full Love Your Way drop at savagex.com.

Chocolates or fragrance?

Now, we can help you with choosing the right thing! Two traditional Valentine’s gift ideas come together in Lush’s 2025 Valentine’s Day fragrance collection, which smells like chocolate. Perfume can serve as a great Valentine’s Day gift because it can connect to emotions and create memories. A fragrance that reflects the recipient’s personality and taste can be especially meaningful. Speaking of taste, Bath & Body Works announced a Valentine’s collaboration with iconic Sweethearts candy! Dior speaks to luxury packaging being the lure for their Valentine’s offerings, while Armani mesmerizes with Sì EDP Intense fragrance. The key notes of black tea, rose, vanilla, and blackcurrant come together to create a memorable Valentine’s entrance —or exit!

Symrise believes Valentine’s Day offers the perfect time to treat yourself and your loved ones. Weigh in and let us know how you plan to embrace love in all forms!

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Were you born in the year of the snake? If your birth year falls on 2025, 2013, 2001, 1989, 1977, 1965, 1953, 1941, or 1929, you belong to one of the most fascinating signs in the Chinese zodiac! The snake symbolizes wisdom, charm, elegance and transformation. People born under this sign often get celebrated for their intuition, strategic thinking and intelligence.

In the Chinese zodiac, the snake comes sixth among the 12 animals. Each year of the snake features its unique element. And 2025 brings us the Year of the Wood Snake. Starting on January 29, 2025 (Chinese New Year) and lasting until February 16, 2026 (Chinese New Year’s Eve), the wood element highlights relationships, personal growth and the ability to overcome challenges. These qualities promise a year filled with steady progress and meaningful connections. Are you feeling curious about how to embrace the positive energy of 2025? Read on to explore the opportunities this transformative year holds!

Traditions, customs & festivities

Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year or the Spring Festival, belongs to one of the world’s most widely celebrated and culturally significant holidays. Leading up to festivities, families clean their homes thoroughly to “sweep away” any bad luck accumulated over the past year. Families come together for the Reunion Dinner on New Year’s Eve, enjoying dishes like dumplings and spring rolls for wealth, fish for abundance, and sticky rice cakes for prosperity. Modern celebrations may incorporate oranges and tangerines for good fortune, longevity noodles for long life, and whole chickens to symbolize family unity. On New Year’s Day, elders often follow the tradition to give red envelopes (hongbao) filled with money to younger family members as a gesture of good luck and blessings. Celebrations culminate with the Lantern Festival on the 15th day, a vibrant night-time celebration where families carry lanterns of all shapes, colors, and sizes. Reds, purples, maroons, oranges, and gold are worn and used for decorations to enhance prosperity, as seen in Burberry’s New Year’s collection! 

Lucky colors to wear in 2025

In addition to these warm shades, much like the popularity of Wicked, green remains a signature color of the enigmatic Wood Snake. Calming, natural shades of green symbolize the Snake’s spirit and energy. Accessories offer a perfect way to incorporate greens, including Toteme’s sharp slingback pump or Simone Rocha’s multi-hued ring. Brown, in keeping with Pantone’s Color of the Year Mocha Mousse, embodies the grounding essence of the Wood element. Try Cult Gaia’s Paloma Bronze clutch or Dries Van Noten’s gorgeous brown earrings. Snake motifs and faux skin patterns often echo earthy shades, as seen in these walkable snake pumps. On Instagram, MAC Cosmetics recently showcased their limited-edition Lunar New Year collection with snakeskin embossing, colors, and holographic packaging!

Celebratory collaborations

If you are wondering how else to celebrate, try raising a glass! In addition to MAC, the world of fine liquors offers plenty of limited-edition releases, collaborating with global artists. Glenfiddich offers “A Gift for Great Encounters,” showcasing exclusive designs by contemporary ink artist Zhang Yu across their premium whisky range. In a fusion of fashion and luxury, Maison Hennessy released a’ Reimagination’ collection, all about renewal and positive transformation, leaving behind the past and embracing new beginnings. Vibrant, abstract interpretations of a snake writhe across the carafe designs, using ancient Chinese brocade patterns as inspiration to reflect the texture and scales of the snake’s body. 

The House of Rémy Martin has invited celebrated Chinese artist Huang Yuxing to create new artwork, as seen in their video, Majestic Serpentine, to welcome the new zodiac sign. Johnnie Walker has revealed a limited-edition Blue Label design, with a new bottle featuring artwork by Taiwanese-American visual artist James Jean. “The snakes are constantly growing, transforming, and adapting to changing conditions,” he says. For young and old alike, Disney California’s Lunar New Year festival (January 17 to February 16) returns with food and beverages, music, and snakes — eek!

Symrise realizes Lunar New Year celebrations with colors, foods and festivities inspire people worldwide. The new year inspires optimism as we share meals, light lanterns, and welcome blessings and opportunities. Weigh in below and let us know how you plan to ring in the Lunar New Year!

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