Our time on earth and our history as a civilization have been measured in linear time frames, which has helped us understand the panorama of historical events for almost millennia. It is said that history repeats itself, and to more or less predict what will happen in the future, we only have to look at the past. Although there are no physical laws to support this theory, we can verify it ourselves every day.
When a global event alters the course of what we knew, such as the COVID-19 pandemic that broke out in 2020, everything changes. Industries are transformed, people look for new ways to survive, new tensions arise and so do new creative processes to solve them. While there are studies dedicated to developing possible futures, unpredictable events of this magnitude cause everything to be rushed; hence the uncertainty we all feel.
Many academics and experts analyzed the events of 2020 to provide some clarity on their continuity in 2021, in various industries ranging from marketing and advertising to food and retail, to name a few. In this interesting note from Forbes, some key trends for this year are mentioned, of which we have reviewed 4 that we have noticed will gain a lot of strength in San Miguel and its surroundings:
Nostalgia for flavors
From the fatigue and anxiety caused by quarantine and global events, studies such as the one by Journal of Consumer Psychology They point out that people are less willing or interested in trying complex flavours: the only thing that interests most of us is to stay close to what we like, that comfort food that soothes us when we feel down. This is reinforced by reports from large junk food companies that indicated a considerable increase in its sales during quarantine.
Photo via: merken.campestre.sma.mx
Here, we definitely see this with the opening of new restaurants that take care of their process from start to finish, integrate organic ingredients, a conscious attitude andproviding a homely flavour that simply lifts our spirits. For example, we can think of Merken SMA, which we visited not long ago, and where we had a delicious breakfast in a very pleasant atmosphere connected with nature.
Let's talk about mental health
A much-needed conversation! Fortunately, in recent years we have seen how it is more normal for everyone to talk about how we feel and what we are going through, and we all support each other to ask for help when needed. Just imagine that, in our parents' time, this was unthinkable. After such a chaotic 2020, depressive episodes have not been long in coming, so it is vital that we go to experts as much as possible. There are also complementary treatments to psychological therapy that have been proven to greatly improve the mental health of patients. Such as meditation, yoga, holistic rituals and experiences in nature.
Photo via @IRISSpaDosCasas
Here in the city, there are two spaces that always help us have a moment of disconnection and introspection when we need it most: Iris Spa of Two Houses and the spa of Hotel MatildaWe like the first one for its constant workshops and sessions specially designed for the development of our consciousness and physical and spiritual well-being; and the second one for its natural treatments that renew us and prepare us to go out into the world and give the best of ourselves.
Style and sustainable consumption
Did you know that vegetarian and vegan diets have become exponentially popular during 2020? Whether it's because people are looking for ethical consumption, or simply because they are looking for a healthier lifestyle, the truth is that several surveys in the US indicate that more and more consumers have opted for plant-based diets, and many others have sought to significantly reduce their meat consumption. The migration to a more responsible diet with the planet will be a long process, but every day there are more people who think about the origins of what they consume, what they put into their bodies and where their waste will end up. Don't be surprised if this year you hear about friends who have created their personal gardens, or who acquire their supplies directly from places like The Star Farm, which produces cheeses, organic eggs and seasonal vegetables and legumes.
In terms of fashion, there has also been a notable advance in sustainable production and ethical consumption. For example, large retail and fast fashion companies have had to give in to complaints about their enslaving and environmentally inconsiderate practices, in order to include fair production lines. And at a local and independent level, there are many brands and designers who are doing things responsibly, with artisanal processes and with fair pay for their creators and suppliers. For example, we can think of: Mestizo, who in addition to thinking about all the above, make exquisite decorative and clothing objects. Also, a designer with a very extensive and recognized career at national and international level, such as Carla Fernandez in Hidalgo Inn, dedicated to preserving and revitalizing ancient textile art in each of its pieces.
photo photo via @meztizmx @carlafernandezmx
Outdoor experiences
While this is something that many of us already enjoyed, the lockdown intensified the desire to go out and explore and get lost in nature; in addition to the recommendations to stay in outdoor spaces if we leave home. Rooftops, hiking and camping became our best options for a weekend getaway and it will be a trend that we will continue to see during 2021, with more and more options to visit and give ourselves a break.
If you are looking for a family-friendly outdoor experience, we recommend Valley of the Trails, which has vast grounds and residences for you to stay in and get the full experience, with brunch and various activities during the day. If you are looking for something more romantic, definitely the boutique hotel and country restaurant of San Lucas Vineyards they will conquer you.
photo via @vinedossanlucas @valledelossenderos_sma
