What if the neighborhood you live in is the most important factor in your health, not your diet or your genes?

More researchers are questioning whether the places we live affect everything, from how much we move to the level of stress we feel. With the growing interest in wellness culture, self-care is no longer limited to temporary resorts but has extended to entire cities.

This concept is known as 'wellness architecture.' The idea is to create spaces that support our physical and mental health. One of the latest examples is Fahid Island in Abu Dhabi, whose developers said every decision was made with wellness in mind.

Emma McCrery Bren, Senior Vice President of Aldar Properties, said the sector is currently witnessing a lot of 'false promotion of wellness, as some believe that adding a gym or spa to a building means achieving wellness, but that is not the case.'

It's not about buildings as much as it is about how people live, such as placing green spaces, bike paths, cafes, and libraries within walking distance.

Bren added: 'It's about ensuring that every design decision is made from a perspective that prioritizes wellness. It's about the fundamental principles. To feel well, you have to make sure that the environment around you supports that.'

Perhaps the next question is not where you want to live, but how will that place change the way you live?