2020 Made Americans Even More Excited to Practice Self-Care, According to a Survey

Photo: SWNS

Seven in 10 Americans (73%) were more conscious of needing self-care in 2020 — and 69% plan to do more self-care in 2021 than they did in the previous year, according to new research.

Results found two-thirds of people (67%) agreed that the personal self-care routines they developed during the pandemic have become a permanent part of their daily life.

Other well-received activities included manicure/pedicures (36%) and getting a haircut (34%).

Visiting a spa was especially popular with respondents ages 18–23, with 55% considering it self-care. Meanwhile, respondents aged 56+ disagreed, with 47% saying outdoor exercise is their preferred form of self-care.

According to the research, three-quarters of Americans surveyed believe self-care can relieve stress and will try nearly anything to get their stress relief.

Respondents have tried coloring books, cleaning and impromptu dance parties.

RELATED VIDEO: Ricki Lake Opens Up About Her 30-Year Battle with Hair Loss: ‘It’s Been Debilitating’

In 2020, the average person only had 65 minutes per week dedicated to self-care.

In good news, 45% of respondents see themselves having more time per week for self-care in 2021.

People are willing to go pretty far in order to have more self-care time. A third of Americans would be willing to move (35%), sell a personal belonging (33%) and even give up their favorite food (30%) for more self-care time.

The survey also revealed that nearly three in five (59%) will only practice self-care if they feel stressed. And more than seven in 10 (72%) like to use self-care as a reward after a long, tough week.

For 64% of respondents, self-care provides a much-needed boost to their self-confidence. More than two-thirds feel more productive (67%) and happier (71%) after taking time for themselves.

source: people.com