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Mattel has partnered with the meditation app Headspace to debut its new Barbie Wellness collection, a range of dolls and accessories with the simple goal of introducing kids to the benefits of self-care.
The move – while one that has certainly divided opinion – is aligned with the growing discussion and attention paid to issues around mental health in youths and adults today.
Last year, the World Health Organisation formally recognised ‘burnout’ as a medical condition. In its own bid to join the conversation, Mattel’s Barbie Wellness has launched in the US with seven dolls priced between $15 and $30.
Each doll has been designed to depict self-care activities such as going to the spa, getting a mani-pedi, and soaking in a bubble bath, while the Breathe with Barbie is a mindfulness-oriented doll that leads a guided meditation by clicking her moon necklace.
On top of this, kids and fans can now access Barbie’s meditation – led by teacher Eve Prieto, the female voice of Headspace – on YouTube.
A statement from Headspace, read: “In an increasingly busy, over-connected world, it is more important than ever to take time for yourself – this rings true for adults and kids alike. Headspace has partnered with Barbie to raise awareness around nurturing overall emotional well-being through mindfulness exercises.”
