AN expert believes they have found the exact science behind having an ideal night in and it comes with a strict timetable.
The formula for the ‘perfect night in’ involves arriving home at 5:30 pm, copious snacks – and putting your feet up no later than 6:42 pm, according to a poll.
A study of 2,000 adults revealed the first port of call for 55% of adults is to slip into something more comfortable.
But for others, a soak in the bath is the best way to start an evening in.
The ideal amount of time for this is just 19 minutes to get yourself prepared for a cosy night.
However, it is not just the act of having a bath that makes this work.
Getting the ambience right with candles and relaxing music is an essential part of the formula for 29% of those asked.
While 13% of adults look forward to spending time on their nights in to finish a video game, the majority enjoy the fact that they have no plans.
74% of those polled admitted that they actively look forward to having “nothing to do.”
This research was commissioned by Timotei, a Swedish hair care company, doing research for a podcast.
Timotei’s series ‘A Gentle Start: The Showercast’ is designed to be enjoyed during a 10-minute shower.
Cleo Hector from the haircare brand said: “As we move from summer into the chillier months, it seems many Brits are keen to slow down and be gentler to themselves.
“Most are looking to boost their wellness routines this winter.”
Rather than going out and partying, 66% of Brits prefer a night surrounded by their home comforts.
Half of these people find it more “peaceful” than going out, with 48% enjoying the opportunity to fully unwind.
But, for the majority of those who love a night in, there is an element of stress.
55% looking for the perfect night at home are desperate to avoid uninvited visitors.
Top ways Brits practise ‘gentle living’
- Read a good book
- Enjoy a hot bath
- Watch a classic film
- Enjoy a hot shower
- Light candles and relax with some music
- Binge-watch the new hot TV series
- Order a takeaway
- Bake something indulgent
- Play board games with family/friends
- Care for houseplants
- Listening to a podcast
- Trying out a new recipe
- Relaxing yoga or stretching session
- Do some home spa treatments (face masks, etc.)
- Do a bit of knitting/crochet
Over half would rather spend the night in by themselves than going out.
Perhaps even more shockingly to some, 65% of Brits will actively cancel plans to have some me time.
And while 45% would choose to have their perfect night in with family, 24% would opt to be home alone – and 9% just want to be with their pets.
This desire for self-care and self-preservation increases for over a quarter of Brits once the clocks go back.
While 15% are practising gentle living more as we head into the colder winter months – a wellness trend to manage modern pressures that involves being kind, calm, and soft to yourself.
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Cleo Hector from Timotei added: “Taking a bath or shower is one of life’s simple pleasures.
“And with our new podcast, you can unwind and learn about gentle living from inspirational women like Laura Whitmore and Martine McCutcheon.”