These are adults favorite ways to lift their mood

By Charlotte Minett, 72Point via SWNS

Adults favorite ways to lift their mood include having a hot drink in a café, enjoying a walk in the countryside, a slice of cake - and buying fresh flowers.

A poll of 2,000 adults identified the little things that people build into their routines, which they do to put a smile on their faces.

Reading a book (36 percent), spending time with friends (29 percent), and playing a song that brings back happy memories (28 percent) all feature in the top 20, as does watching their favorite TV show (43 percent).

The research, commissioned by M&S Club Rewards, found 64 percent regularly set aside time to enjoy a little pick me up.

More than three quarters (77 percent) consider these "rewarding rituals" to be an important part of maintaining or improving wellbeing, with 83 percent having turned treating themselves into a habit they do on a regular basis.

In addition, 46 percent value having something to look forward to - no matter how big or small.

The research also found that those who have rewarding rituals treat themselves on average five times a week, with nearly one in 10 enjoying a pick-me-up once a day, leaving 58 percent feeling happier and 48 percent more relaxed.

Nic Moran, on behalf of M&S Club Rewards, said: “Our research shows us just how important rewarding rituals are to our daily lives, contributing to our overall wellbeing and happiness.

“It is often the small things that can bring the most joy on a daily basis, so, it’s great to see so many people taking time out of their day to enjoy the little things.”

A quarter of those who treat themselves plan to do so more this year than in previous years.

This is because they feel they now have a better understanding of the importance of me time (36 percent), want to feel special (22 percent), or like being spontaneous (18 percent).

However, the research also found planning these types of rewards is important.

More than four in 10 (42 percent) admitted they need to find time to treat themselves otherwise they won’t get around to it at all.

In addition, 37 percent said they are more likely to treat others than themselves, with half of admitting rewarding others improves how they are feeling themselves.

Nic Moran added: “Although we know the positive impact of taking a little time to treat ourselves, and indeed others, it can sometimes be hard to make it a priority, particularly in the current climate.

“Earning and using loyalty points and rewards vouchers earnt throughout the year is a great way to make it easier to enjoy those little regular treats or rewards, that can have a big impact, whether it’s for yourself or your loved ones.”

TOP 20 REWARDING RITUALS:

1. Watching your favorite TV show
2. A hot drink i.e. cup of tea or coffee enjoyed in a cafe
3. Enjoying a piece/bar of chocolate
4. A walk in the countryside
5. Reading a great book
6. Enjoying a slice of cake
7. Spending time with friends
8. Getting a takeaway
9. Meeting a friend for something to eat/drink
10. Playing a song that brings back happy memories
11. Buying myself something as a small treat e.g. a new item of clothing
12. Calling a loved one/relative
13. Enjoying a glass of wine on a Friday night
14. A warm bubble bath at the end of a stressful day
15. Getting a haircut/having your hair done
16. Completing a workout
17. Buying fresh flowers
18. Buying something small for my house e.g. a new candle
19. Have a ‘date night’ with your partner/spouse
20. Looking back at old photographs