Forget The Mirror — Americans Say Feeling Good Now Outranks Looking Good

Looking good may still turn heads, but in 2025, a majority of Americans say how they feel is more important than how they look.

According to a new survey of 2,000 U.S. adults, 77% of Americans say they now prioritize what feels good over what makes them look good — a clear shift toward internal wellness over external appearances.

The poll, conducted by Talker Research on behalf of Metagenics, found that nearly a third (30%) have adopted a more mindful approach to health this year, driven by a growing awareness of bodily cues, emotional responses, and mental well-being. More than one in four respondents said they began taking their inner health seriously in the past year.

Gut health in particular is gaining ground as a wellness priority, with 77% believing it directly affects their emotional well-being and 86% agreeing that physical and emotional health are closely linked. Fifty-three percent even said they felt confident explaining how gut health influences the rest of the body — without looking it up.

“People are redefining what health means in 2025,” said Gulam Khan, vice president of marketing, North America at Metagenics. “Its no longer about chasing perfection, but about genuinely feeling better for today and into the future. Whether its setting boundaries, taking a walk or supporting your gut with a probiotic, people are realizing that lasting wellness starts from the inside out.”

Intentional daily wellness habits are central to that effort. Respondents reported practicing an average of five feel-good acts each day. The most popular included prioritizing sleep (50%), cooking or eating nourishing meals (49%), and moving their bodies in ways that feel good, such as walking or dancing (44%). Others cited connecting with loved ones in person (38%), spending time in nature (35%), and saying no to draining commitments (38%) as regular parts of their routine.

Many are also rethinking the habits theyve left behind. Twenty-eight percent said theyre trying to quit mindless snacking while watching TV, 27% want to stop staying up late for no reason, and 26% are cutting back on ultra-processed foods.

When people arent feeling their best, theyre embracing restorative coping strategies over pushing through. Forty-five percent reported resting or napping, while others turn to music (30%), go for a walk (29%), or take time alone (24%).

Gut-supporting supplements are playing a growing role in these routines. Thirty-one percent of respondents already take a daily probiotic or supplement for gut health, and 57% of those who dont say theyre open to doing so. Among supplement users, 43% reported improved digestion, 36% experienced less bloating, and many noted additional perks like better sleep (31%), more energy (30%), and improved mood (27%).

“These habits arent just routine, theyre intentional,” said Gulam Khan, vice president of marketing, North America at Metagenics. “Were seeing more people take ownership of their health and well-being by investing in daily actions and routines that support how they want to feel physically, mentally and emotionally.”