Dopamine-boosting trends to look forward to in 2025

Dopamine-boosting trends to look forward to in 2025

The year 2024 has us longing for the best things in life – reliving nostalgic memories, making concrete efforts to be happier, and decorating our homes with ornate embellishments (just to name a few) . Ahead of the new year, Yelp just released its 2025 Home, Beauty and Wellness Trends Report to give us a sneak peek at what's likely to make a comeback. From framed scrapbooks to hybrid hangouts to no-phone zones, these trends are expected to dominate 2025.

“We examined millions of Yelp searches for words, phrases and businesses across all categories that received high interest between 2023 and 2024,” the report said. Plus, Yelp trends expert Tara Lewis shares tips on how to incorporate these trends into your life in 2025.

Conversation pits of the 70s

In the 1970s, homeowners used architectural elements in their homes to encourage intimate gatherings. In 2025, '70s-style sunken living rooms, commonly known as “conversation pits,” are poised for a comeback. This follows a larger trend towards mid-century modern style. “Mid-century furniture maintains its timeless appeal and is even more popular (up 319%), with curved furniture (up 124%) adding fluidity and character to living spaces,” the Yelp report says.

Scrapbooking wall art

Scrapbooks can feel like time capsules, and Yelp users have found a way to honor the memories they contain by turning them into wall art. “Yelp users are creating unique shadow boxes (up 34%) to display film photos – with searches for film labs up 88% and film development up 54% – as well as travel mementos and mementos of special occasions,” says Yelp. Transform your photos into a stylish display that reminds you of your favorite dopamine-boosting memories.

Artisanal colors and textures

Crafted design trends – like textured walls, recycled fabrics and bold colors – will be more popular than ever in 2025. “Whether you're going for a minimalist aesthetic or a statement accent wall, these wall finishing techniques offer versatile and elegant options to suit your aesthetic,” says Yelp. These handcrafted designs will be “popular”. [choice] to give a living space unique charm and tactile elements.”

Telephone-free zones

In a time when social media has taken over our lives, going off the grid has become increasingly popular – but no-phone zones are here to change that. “As a kind of new speakeasy, social clubs (up 39%), book clubs (up 26%), chess clubs (up 47%) and even locally run clubs (up 82%) are ushering in a new era of social gatherings where the connection is in real life takes precedence over screen time,” says Yelp. As one of your New Year's resolutions, you might consider joining a phone zone.

Hybrid Hangouts

Hybrid hangouts are exactly what they sound like: spending time with friends in places designed for multitasking. “Businesses that combine everyday activities with food and leisure are becoming new hotspots,” says Yelp. “Sip a matcha latte while you do laundry. Eat a burger while you get gas.” Check out local eateries in your neighborhood and you might find book club bars, beer spas, and bookstores.

Dopamine-boosting hobbies

“As people try to stay fit and add some excitement to the monotony of their routines, they are creating dopamine menus—hobbies and pastimes that studies have shown to boost mood and improve well-being,” says Yelp. Whether you make jewelry, sew, paint, or dance, enjoy your most whimsical pastimes in the coming year.

Summer camps for adults

Do you remember the days of summer camp? Well, you're not too old to recreate a similar concept. “Adults are increasingly looking for escapes to relax, heal and socialize,” says Yelp. “Searches for adult camps—which combine childhood nostalgia with adult perks—are up 347% on Yelp.” This trend proves that summer camps aren’t just for kids.

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *