The bathroom is becoming a haven for stress relief, especially among young adults. A recent study by bathroom manufacturers Villeroy & Boch revealed that 43% of people like to lock themselves away in the bathroom to enjoy the quiet, with 13% seeking time away from their partner. The average Brit spends a whopping one hour and 54 minutes a week in the lavvy, equivalent to almost a full working day a month. Those aged 18 to 24 spend the most time relaxing in the bathroom, clocking in at two hours and 36 minutes each week.
While we traditionally use the bathroom for its intended purposes, this study highlights a growing trend of using it as a sanctuary from stress. This is not just a matter of preference; there are genuine mental health benefits to taking bathroom breaks to escape the chaos of daily life.
Counsellor Georgina Sturmer explains that we all need coping strategies when life becomes overwhelming, and the bathroom provides a socially acceptable space to take a breather. When stress triggers our fight or flight response, the bathroom offers a temporary escape.
Kate Cronin, a 21-year-old student, shared her experience of using the bathroom as a refuge during her university years. The bathroom provided a private space to breathe and compose herself, offering a break from the constant demands of university life.
If you find yourself seeking solace in the bathroom, Georgina recommends incorporating breathing exercises into your bathroom breaks. The “five finger breathing” exercise is an effective way to stay calm without drawing attention to yourself. Hold your hands out in front of you, trace the index finger of one hand up and down each finger of the other hand. Breathe in as you trace upwards and breathe out as you trace downwards.
The bathroom is becoming a more than just a place for basic needs. It’s a sanctuary, a space for self-care, and a reminder of the importance of taking breaks and finding healthy ways to manage stress.
