Revealed: The most (and least) kalmful cities in the UK

The Kalmfulness Indexi is a landmark study involving 3,726 adults living in the UK to assess their health, emotional well-being and quality of life, to help identify and rank cities based on ‘kalmfulness.’

We define ‘kalmfulness’ as the ‘state or quality of being calm, peaceful and untroubled in the midst of daily life.’

 The in-depth study considered financial struggles, hours of sleep achieved, daily commutes, quality time with close relationships and more.

Here's what the research found... 

As a nation, we could all benefit from cultivating a little more kalmfulness into our lives; to reflect on how we are feeling and understand what we can do to better look after ourselves today and in the futurei.

• Get outside: The Kalmfulness Index suggests over a third of UK adults (37%) find solace in the healing power of nature.i When we spend time in nature, we can disconnect from everyday stressors, technology and social interactions, giving us time to recharge our mind and bodies. Research has found that 10-50 minutes in natural spaces can be effective at improving mood and focus.ii If you can’t get outside, bring nature to you. Houseplants have been shown to boost mood, concentration and productivity.iii
• Establish healthier habits: According to experts, diet, exercise, and sleep are three pillars for a healthy life. iv While improving just one of these lifestyle factors can help people lead longer lives, improving all three may be beneficial for both physical and mental health. Try to get at least 7 hours of sleep a nightv, find 20 to 30 minutes a day to exercisevi, and stick to foods that love your body back.vii
• Find time to be alone – The Kalmfulness Index shows that 36% of UK adults think that alone time is beneficial to your emotional well-being,i allowing us to recharge and destress. If you are thinking of spending some time alone, it is important to do so in ways that are beneficial to your mental well-being. It can be as simple as practicing self-care, exploring a favourite hobby or reading a book. Whatever it is, be sure to turn off social media. Your focus should be on your own thoughts and interests and not on what other people are doing.
• Talk to someone – Having open conversations with others is invaluable for well-being and can help induce a more calmful state of mind.viii It provides emotional support, diverse perspectives, validation, and helps us to develop coping strategies. If you need someone to talk to, friends and family are one option. Online forums, support groups, therapists, and clubs can also be helpful.

How Kalms can help

Many people use herbal remedies to help them feel more like themselves again.

With over 50 years' experience, Kalms is dedicated to providing traditional herbal remedies used to relieve stress, mild anxiety, sleeplessness and exhaustion. Our range offers a choice of remedies that can fit into your life. Whatever challenges life throws at you, you can make the most of it.

To find out more about the Kalms Range, click here.

[i]The Kalmfulness Index. A nationally representative study involving 3,726 UK respondents. Commissioned by Kalms, 2023. Data available on file.

[ii]Spending time in nature reduces stress | ScienceDaily

[iii]Houseplants: to support human health / RHS Gardening

[iv]The Connection Between Diet, Exercise, and Sleep | Sleep Foundation

[v]Is 7 Hours of Sleep Enough? | Sleep Foundation

[vi]Get active - Better Health - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

[vii] 11 Simple Ways to Stick to a Healthy Diet (healthline.com)

[viii] I Need Someone to Talk To: How to Find the Support You Need (verywellmind.com)