New research from Marella Cruises has uncovered that over half of Brits (59%) often feel stuck in a routine at home, while 66% of the nation yearns for a more consistent sense of motivation and positivity.
Sheffield University psychologist Dr. Michael Bonshor, known as the “Professor of Wellbeing,” has identified five key hormones that are crucial for promoting positive feelings. To help Brits get their daily dose of these “fab five” happy hormones, Dr. Bonshor developed a formula: fresh air + sunlight + socializing + memory-making + new experiences + pleasant environment + rest +/- exercise = long-lasting positive hormones.
However, Marella Cruises’ research shows that many people find it difficult to combine these elements in their daily lives, leading to what the study refers to as a “happiness deficit.” The survey revealed that nearly half of Brits (40%) haven’t had a new experience in over a year, while 74% say they crave new experiences when on holiday. The main barriers to happiness include not enough holidays (34%), lack of time to rest (32%), and work-related stress (28%).
Dr. Bonshor explained that holidays offer an ideal opportunity to break free from the mundane and activate the hormones that improve well-being. “The ‘happiness hormone,’ serotonin, improves our mood when we spend time outdoors, while dopamine and endorphins, the ‘reward and pleasure hormones,’ are released when we engage in enjoyable activities. Sharing these experiences with others also triggers the release of oxytocin. Wherever we are, we can find moments in our daily lives to encourage the release of these positive hormones.”
Greg Rutherford, GB Olympian and Marella Cruises ambassador, who recently faced an injury that affected his positivity, tested the “Happy-Hormone” formula during a Marella cruise. Rutherford participated in new activities, including a jeep safari in Turkey and wine tasting in Limassol, Cyprus, while also enjoying fresh sea air, restorative sleep, and socializing with crew members and fellow passengers.
Rutherford praised the cruise environment for boosting his mood and encouraging new experiences. “A cruise is a fantastic way to explore new places, breathe in the sea air, and try exciting activities that trigger those happy hormones. The formula can even be applied at home—by exercising, revisiting old memories, or finding small moments to make you smile.”
To help others embrace new experiences and boost positivity, Rutherford is giving away 20 free excursions to customers who book a Marella cruise in September.
