THE average Brit didn’t see daylight for two-and-a-half days each week during the winter months, a poll has found.
Of 5,000 UK adults surveyed, almost half said they're spending far more time inside as a result of bad weather, long hours at work and working from home.
A quarter said they don’t get any time to take quick walks during the day, while 19 per cent reckon their day is always too busy to take a break.
More than one fifth (22 per cent) admitted to only experiencing one hour outside per day with 69 per cent claiming their mood is affected negatively.
In addition, most individuals identify with having ‘less get up and go’ in the darker months (59 per cent) and feeling more tired and drained (57 per cent). One third (32 per cent) feel they achieve less.
More than a third (37 per cent) said low motivation gets in the way of them looking after themselves, while 28 per cent felt mood affected their self care, and 25 per cent blamed a lack of time for not being more active.
AXA Health, which commissioned the research, teamed up with celebrity broadcaster Jo Whiley to show the nation how short bursts of activity can make a positive impact on our physical and mental health.
Jo Whiley said: “It seems the same for a lot of people, that when the skies are brighter and days are longer, it puts us in a better mood.
WEATHER MISERY
“It’s important to keep on top of your health and wellbeing, even if you’re not feeling quite up to it, and a few short minutes doing something active or being outside can really help.
“A couple of star jumps while the kettle boils or belting out your favourite ballad while hoovering can do wonders for your physical and mental health.”
The study found 59 per cent dread the darker months, but 61 per cent have a boost of energy when the winter sun comes out.
Going for a walk (49 per cent), speaking to and seeing friends (35 per cent) and a quick workout (22 per cent) were the top ways adults look after their health and wellbeing through the darker months.
And with lighter times on the horizon, many adults have already taken steps to help them feel good – including getting an early night, only working the hours they’re paid to and doing short bursts of exercise.
'SMALL CHANGES CAN HELP'
Taking breaks away from the desk and buying a SAD lamp also made the list.
Encouraging the nation to become more active, AXA Health is installing three larger-than-life table lamps fitted with SAD bulbs in London, Manchester, and Glasgow, to help alleviate winter blues and provide a little feelgood sunshine for passers-by.
AXA Health’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr Annabel Bentley, said: "The shorter days can feel draining, especially if you are seeing very few daylight hours.
“Every day however, we’re gaining a few minutes of daylight and with the clocks set to go forward in March, there are plenty of small changes we can make to take advantage of the increase in daylight and help us feel good.
“Getting outside for 10 minutes when taking a phone call, or cooking up a new dish, even being indoors but with the windows open, can help boost your mood without you even realising."
With spring and summer approaching, 67 per cent said they will make the most of it by going outside more, 59 per cent plan to walk more and 43 per cent plan to visit more places.
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On top of this, 71 per cent of those polled via OnePoll agree that short bursts of activity such as going for a five-minute walk or meditation can make them feel better.
A sunny day (56 per cent), having a good night’s sleep (51 per cent), and learning a new hobby (15 per cent) are also things to put people into a good place mentally.
AXA Health’s giant SAD lamps will be at London’s King’s Cross (24-25 Feb), Spinningfields Square in Manchester (27-28 Feb) and Fort Shopping Centre in Glasgow (3-4 March).
Brits list their best ways to boost mental health
1. A sunny day (more daylight)
2. Getting things done
3. Having a good night’s sleep
4. Meeting family and friends
5. Your favourite music
6. A quick walk outside
7. Cooking/baking
8. Good days work
9. Getting up early
10. A home workout
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