Brits are spending an average of just 40 minutes a day on activities that benefit their physical and mental health
It turns out almost a fifth of Brits are unhappy with how they balance self-care with other responsibilities as new research uncovers brits spend a mere 40 minutes a day devoted to their own wellbeing.
A survey of 2,000 UK adults found that nearly half admit they’re not giving enough time to activities that improve their physical and mental health, like hitting the gym or chilling out with their go-to TV show.
The study was initiated by breast cancer charity Walk the Walk which is encouraging sign-ups for it’s MoonWalk challenge, an overnight marathon set to light up London’s streets on May 17.
Nina Barough CBE, founder and chief executive of the charity, said: “It’s so important to make time for yourself. It’s clear that even small acts of self-care, such as going for a walk or eating healthily, can have a big impact on our wellbeing.
“Prioritising these moments shouldn’t feel like a luxury, but rather an essential necessity in our busy lives. Taking time for yourself helps to boost mood, build resilience, and improve overall quality of life.”
Although 90% recognised the significance of self-care, the most common barriers to prioritising it were found to be family responsibilities (34%) and work demands (33%). And many individuals saw self-care as a luxury they can’t afford.
Interestingly, 21% often feel guilty for putting their own needs before others. The study revealed that 53% of respondents rarely or never say “no” to others in order to focus on themselves, despite 54% believing that doing so would improve their relationships.
However, many people are finding ways to incorporate self-care into their daily lives. Physical activity was found to have a significant impact, with 82% stating that it improves their mood and mental health.
Walking, chosen by 57% of respondents, is a popular way to stay active while boosting both physical and emotional wellbeing. Other self-care habits include prioritising sleep (46%), reading for relaxation (42%), and maintaining a healthy diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables (37%)..
Barough stressed the importance of taking intentional steps to look after personal wellbeing: “Looking after yourself isn’t selfish, it’s important. When we take care of our wellbeing, we feel better and can also help others more effectively.”
She continued: “Self-care and wellbeing come in many forms, from taking five minutes out or going for a lunchtime walk to enjoying bigger experiences or challenges. Taking time for yourself is an easy but powerful way to stay balanced in a busy life.
Here are some of the top things Brits do to boost their mental or physical health:
- Go for a walk
- Get regular sleep
- Watch a series or movie
- Read books for relaxation
- Spend time in nature
- Drink plenty of water each day
- Eat a good diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables
- Listen to uplifting music
- Cook nutritious meals at home
- Go to the gym/exercise
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Watch sports
- Read a book or meditate before going to sleep to support better sleep
- Take up a hobby
- Follow a good skincare regime
- Take regular breaks during work
- Listen to podcasts or audiobooks
- Foster social connections, such as meeting with friends or networking
- Switch off screens or limit screen time
- Reduce caffeine intake