Warning from Expert About TikTok’s Viral ‘Winter Arc’ Trend

A psychologist has raised concerns that TikTok’s trending ‘winter arc’ challenge may negatively impact the mental well-being of individuals aiming for self-improvement.

The ‘winter arc’ challenge has gained notable traction on TikTok and other social platforms, encouraging users to push aside their comfort zones and engage in rigorous self-betterment activities from October 1 to December 31.

This initiative, which started going viral in September 2024, advocates for extreme healthy practices, putting participants through both mental and physical tests that they might not be adequately prepared for.

According to psychologist Natalie Buchwald from Manhattan Mental Health Counseling, this movement can become “toxic when it promotes unhealthy behaviors.”She advises those who are vulnerable to seek professional support in their self-improvement journeys.

@lenalifts
Let’s commit together, miss girl 🫵 The winter arc kicks off on October 1st. Hair care from @Olaplex @Conair #motivation #adviceforgirls #selfimprovement

♬ original sound – lena

To assist individuals during their self-improvement endeavors this winter, Natalie provides several suggestions to promote sustainable growth and mitigate adverse effects. Her first piece of advice is to prioritize sufficient sleep.

“Prioritizing sleep is crucial,” Natalie emphasizes. “Some influencers participating in the Winter Arc are promoting unrealistic early wake-up times, which are rarely beneficial.”

Additionally, she cautions against blindly following trends. “A lot of what influencers recommend is focused on gaining views and may lack practicality,” she explains. “Such content should not be taken at face value.”

@ellamaerayner
The Winter Arc is here—let’s take this season to focus and excel towards our goals 💪🏽 Who’s joining me? 👀 Click the link in my bio for access to my FREE Focused FB community, designed to keep you accountable 🔐 #winterarc #thewinterarc #lockin #discipline #focus #focused #goals #fitness #routine #morningroutine #gymrat #gymlife #gymtok #fittok

♬ original sound – fairiesofthenight

Natalie emphasizes the value of engaging in self-improvement alongside others: “Avoid isolating yourself as you follow the Winter Arc. Instead, try to work out or train with others, turning the process into a community experience.”

She further highlights the necessity of setting realistic goals. “Refrain from pursuing unattainable objectives since they can lead to significant stress and exceed personal limits. Set sustainable targets to build positive momentum,” she suggests.

Lastly, Natalie underscores the importance of practicing self-love throughout this transformative journey. “Approach self-improvement with a mindset of self-acceptance rather than self-criticism,” she warns. “This shift can help prevent deterioration in mental health.”

This trend is just the latest instance where experts have expressed concern, as evidenced by a microbiologist’s critique of the viral fluffy popcorn phenomenon.

Source