One in three Brits stressed every day

9th September 2007

Bill Bryson launches Peace and Tranquillity week in North East England

On the eve of the UK's first Peace and Tranquillity week, new research has shown that one third of the UK population struggles to relax at all in the course of daily life, fuelling fears that Britain is set to become the most 'stressed out' nation in Europe.

The survey, of 1112 UK residents, found that four out of ten people 'rarely' or 'never' have time to relax and escape from everyday stresses. It was also found that overall woman are more stressed than men with 37 per cent of females experiencing stress of some sort at least once a day compared to 23 per cent of males. Worryingly, the younger population are the most frequently stressed with nearly half of 16 to 24 year olds feeling 'pressured' on a daily basis.

The study, commissioned by tourism bodies in Durham and Northumberland, coincides with the launch of a new campaign to recognise North East England (particularly Durham and Northumberland) as the UK's leading destination for peace and tranquillity. Internationally acclaimed travel writer Bill Bryson will launch the week of events in Durham on Monday 10th September.
Not only are tranquil environments known to reduce stress, they can also improve health by reducing blood pressure, soothing anxiety and improving mental performance.

Professor Nicol Ferrier from the Institute of Neuroscience's Psychobiology
Research Group at Newcastle University said: "It's now recognised that stress at any time of life may lead to long-term detrimental effects on the body and brain.

"Once stressed, a person is more prone to suffer psychological and physical problems in the future, including infections, raised blood pressure and heart disease. The beneficial effects of peaceful environments are critical."

The survey also revealed that half of people are prone to stress because they 'rarely' or 'never' switch off their mobile phones, and a third of people rarely experience real privacy. The detrimental effects of this were made evident with over half (52 per cent) of people claiming that they have an insufficient amount of energy in their day to day lives.
In line with this, the new figures show an overwhelming six out of ten holiday makers are 'put off' by overcrowding and queues, significantly preferring holiday opportunities that allow the opportunity to rest and unwind. Interestingly, 71 per cent of respondents picked 'the sound of the sea' as the sound they find most calming from a list of options.

In 2006, the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE)* took on a country-wide mapping exercise which highlighted North East England as the most tranquil region in England. Northumberland, in particular, was voted the most tranquil county and the greatest antidote to urban life. Durham was at number four.

Earlier this week, Durham followed in the footsteps of Northumberland and received two top accolades suggesting it is now one of the most desirable places to live and visit in the UK - it was voted 'best city in the UK' (ahead of Edinburgh and London) by readers of the prestigious Condé Nast Traveller magazine. On the same day, figures released by the Royal Bank of Scotland revealed it is now one of the 'top 20 most desirable places to settle in Britain.'

Durham University Chancellor and internationally-renowned author, Bill Bryson OBE said: "Durham is the most wonderful city. It can be both awe-inspiring and delightfully intimate at the same time. Whether I'm walking in the Botanic Garden or finding a moment of tranquillity in the magnificent Cathedral or on Palace Green, it's a place that impresses me more and more with each visit.

"I have often said that there must be something in the water here since the people of Durham are so happy and content."

Over the course of the week, a selection of public events will take place at castles, heritage sites, museums and beauty spots across Durham and Northumberland. Included will be Tai Chi workshops in the University of Durham's Botanic Gardens, a Cloudwatching event at Housesteads Roman Fort, a service of the 'Compline' at Durham Cathedral, silent film showings at Old Fulling Mill Museum of Archaeology, harp music in the Central Picture Gallery of the Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle, and even foot massages at Alnwick Garden.

For more information visit www.peaceandtranquillity.net

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