It seems that health is top of the agenda for Londoners this year.
According to a new survey conducted by wetland restoration charity WWT, which has a reserve in the London borough of Richmond upon Thames, three-quarters of Londoners say they want to improve their health and wellbeing in 2025.
Sticking to that resolution will be easier said than done for most, however, with seven in ten admitting they’ll need some way to record their progress to keep on track.
For most, walking more will play an important role in improving their health and wellbeing in the year-ahead.
A third of those surveyed say they prefer to walk with their partner or spouse.
However, there are still some Londoners who view their walks as much needed ‘me time’ – with a third saying they like to head out alone.
When it comes to Londoners’ favourite walking spots, a third reveal they prefer to talk near water, whether that be a lake, pond or coastal habitat.
It appears that safety is especially paramount at this time of year too, as almost half say they consider the safety of the environment they’re walking in during winter.
The One Poll survey also identified that 45% of people in London consider the safety of the environment they’re walking in during winter.
To help those who are looking to improve their wellbeing and spend more time walking in nature this year, WWT London is, for the first time ever, launching a wellbeing journal.
The journal is free to pick up from WWT London from now until January 31st, and is packed with pages of inspirational ideas for mood-boosting activities that can be enjoyed in wetlands, as well as tips to embrace the seasons and practice mindfulness.
Alexia Hollinshead, General Manager at WWT London, said: “It’s great to see that for many of us, going for a walk and enjoying nature will be a big part of staying healthy and positive in 2025.
“Connection with nature has been shown to increase happiness, life satisfaction, decrease stress and anxiety and improve physical health. There’s literally no better way to put your best foot forward.”
Open every day of the year except Christmas Day, London Wetland Centre boasts 105 acres of breathtaking wetland habitat with wide open spaces to explore, and inspiring wildlife to uncover. Find out more here: https://www.wwt.org.uk/wetland-centres/london/
