Gen Z Relaxes in 42 Minutes, Faster Than Older Generations

A new study reveals that younger adults require significantly less time to unwind than older generations, highlighting generational differences in relaxation habits and attitudes toward personal downtime. The research found that adults aged 18 to 29, often referred to as Generation Z, need just 42 minutes to reach a state of relaxation. This is approximately 10 minutes faster than their elders, with millennials requiring an extra 51 minutes and Generation X needing 53 minutes.

After achieving relaxation, Generation Z individuals report feeling calm and centered (38 percent), more positive (34 percent), and energized (35 percent). However, this younger cohort is also more likely to feel guilty when they take time for themselves, with 58 percent expressing this sentiment compared to 44 percent of millennials and 36 percent of Generation X. Food and drink are more strongly associated with relaxation for Generation Z (73 percent) than for millennials (64 percent) or Baby Boomers (45 percent). Their preferred snacks include a slab of chocolate, biscuits, or a slice of cake, and their top drink is a mug of hot chocolate, contrasting with the nationwide favorite of a cup of tea.