#None #ASICs #Natasha Rothwell #Everyday Escape

Rethinking Wellness: The Power of Movement

As we observe World Mental Health Day, ASICS, a global leader in athletic footwear and apparel, is making a compelling case for re-evaluating how we perceive wellness travel. In a recent campaign featuring actress and wellness advocate Natasha Rothwell, the company encourages individuals to embrace an “Everyday Escape”—a brief, 15-minute period of physical activity that has been shown to enhance mental wellbeing significantly.

The Case Against Wellness Retreats

The allure of wellness holidays is undeniable, with a 33% rise in global interest reported by Euromonitor in the last year. Travelers invest an average of $1,764 for a week dedicated to relaxation and rejuvenation, often enduring long flights and hefty costs. However, new research by ASICS based on a survey of 11,000 people reveals a sobering truth: many wellness retreats fall short of expectations. More than two-thirds of participants noted that the benefits they experienced quickly faded upon returning home, with 32% citing financial stress as a significant downside.

In contrast, ASICS found that incorporating movement into daily routines provided a more sustainable solution to stress and mental fatigue. Participants who engaged in 15-minute daily exercise found a 21% improvement in their overall mental state when compared to their experiences at wellness retreats, with 71% stating that moving daily alleviated stress more effectively.

Everyday Escape: A Simple Solution

The centerpiece of ASICS' initiative, the “Everyday Escape,” invites individuals to carve out just 15 minutes from their day to engage in movement—whether it’s taking a brisk walk, stretching, or dancing in the kitchen. Rothwell emphasizes the empowerment inherent in this approach: "You don’t need to spend thousands or travel far to feel better; just step outside and move your body. It's free, simple, and accessible for everyone."

Rothwell’s enthusiasm for this initiative encourages community participation. By integrating small bursts of activity into daily life, people can experience improved mood and well-being without the stress associated with costly retreats.

Scientific Backing

The effectiveness of this campaign is reinforced by findings from a study led by Dr. Brendon Stubbs at King’s College London. The research team monitored participants in the Everyday Escape trial, which demonstrated that 15 minutes of movement can create a lasting positive impact on mental health. With many participants indicating they would prioritize exercise over future wellness retreats, it seems that the movement not only boosts immediate mood but also cultivates a more sustainable lifestyle choice.

Join the Movement

ASICS is rallying support for this movement through the hashtag #EverydayEscape, encouraging individuals to share their own 15-minute movement breaks on social media. Every shared post contributes to raising funds for mental wellbeing charities worldwide, combining community engagement with actionable steps towards better mental health.

As the Head of Global Marketing for ASICS, Gary Raucher, puts it, "At ASICS, we understand that movement can take you to a happier place without the need for extravagant plans or expensive retreats. Our mission is to facilitate small, meaningful changes that everyone can achieve. Wellbeing should be accessible to us all, every day."

Conclusion

In a world where stress and anxiety are at an all-time high, ASICS' Everyday Escape serves as a reminder that we possess the power to improve our mental health through simple actions. Next time you consider a wellness retreat, remember: a 15-minute movement break could be just what you need to elevate your spirits and enhance your overall wellbeing. Explore your potential for daily movement and discover just how transformative it can be, one step at a time. Join the conversation and take your Everyday Escape today!