Millions keep me-time moments special.

With the ‘new-normal’ presenting its variety of challenges, Brits have agreed on one thing – it’s more important to enjoy something a little more special when taking some ‘me-time’.

In fact, nearly half of the nation (45%) said it was more important to indulge than previous years, with a bit of personal pampering, soaking in some suds, enjoying tasty treats and indulging in a hobby among the top ways Brits like to spend their me-time.

Research polling 2,000 adults found 72 per cent regularly manage to enjoy some alone time – with getting engrossed in a book, taking a nap and listening to music other popular ways to unwind. Other solo activities include shopping online, going for a run or downloading podcasts.

A third of adults admit they have become better at finding time for themselves during the global pandemic, with the average getting a blissful 43 minutes per day to themselves. While those aged 24 and under love their me-time moments and are the most likely to extend it to a whole day.

Just over three quarters (76%) of the nation were likely to indulge in quality food during me-time, while those aged 35 and over were more inclined to get outdoors and go for a walk (37%) or enjoy a spot of gardening (21%).

A spokesperson for Fox’s Biscuits, which commissioned the research, said: “We all need a bit of me-time as it is important for our personal wellbeing. Our lives are busy and we need those opportunities to unwind – as a nation we’ve become great at maximising those moments, no matter how short they are.”

Across all age groups, ‘me time’ was deemed as important to be spent alone, rather than with other people. More than half of the nation (54%) used the time to purely relax, while a one in four (27%) said they ended their me-time feeling more positive, according to the figures from OnePoll.com.

Another 65 per cent feel they tend to put others’ needs before their own, which means they don’t spend time doing what they want. And just under half (46 per cent), perhaps unsurprisingly, found their me-time opportunities much more valuable after having children.

Twenty two per cent of the population feel they need to address the work-life balance in order to generate more time for themselves. While researchers found those aged 25 to 34 get the least 'me time' alone – with just 35 minutes every day.

A Fox’s Biscuits spokesperson added: “When you do finally get a moment’s peace, you sometimes feel guilty about taking it. But me-time should be free from guilt and always feature in your day, no matter the duration. Leaning on others for support can be really helpful – even if it’s just someone to sit down with for a break and a biscuit.”

THE TOP 50 WAYS BRITS SPEND THEIR ME-TIME

1. Read a book2. Go for a walk3. Watch a film4. Listen to music5. Have a cup of tea6. Have a bath7. Watch daytime TV8. Take a nap9. Gardening10. Do absolutely nothing11. Watch a box set12. Catch up with a friend13. Have a shower14. Go shopping (in store or online)15. Listen to the radio16. Read a magazine17. Go on social media18. Treat myself to food I like19. Complete a puzzle20. Treat myself to a biscuit21. Play video games22. Indulge in a hobby23. Have a nice snack24. Complete a crossword25. Spending time with a pet26. Cook27. Bake28. Declutter your house29. Do crafts30. Treat myself to quality food31. Do some home DIY32. Listen to a podcast33. Go to the hairdresser34. Go for a run35. Go to the gym36. Declutter your wardrobe37. Take yourself out to lunch38. Do some yoga39. Meditate40. Play an instrument41. Go for a swim42. Have an at-home beauty treatment / pamper43. Learn a new hobby44. Play sport45. Go to the library46. Write47. Go to a museum48. Unplug from all technology49. Go for a massage50. Paint

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