Boost your mind, body and budget this spring
March 2025
Boost your mind, body and budget this spring
March 2025
Winter may still have us firmly in its grasp, but brighter days are just around the corner. As we edge closer to spring, the promise of longer days and lighter skies brings a much-needed boost of energy and optimism.
Now’s the perfect time to start shaking off the winter blues, refresh your routine, and focus on activities that lift your mood and wellbeing. If you’re thinking about picking up a new hobby or rediscovering an old passion, read on to find out why making more time for the things that bring you joy could give you a boost - and how using your savings could make it all happen.
Wellbeing, well spent
Taking time to do what you love isn’t just enjoyable – it’s beneficial for your wellness too. Whether you’re a painter or hiker, like working out or enjoy getting lost in a great book, hobbies can help you escape the daily grind and recharge your batteries.
Research by Hornby Hobbies suggests that people with a hobby are 85% happier than those without one, and 61% of us in Britain turn to our favourite pastimes to improve mental health.1 Our own research shows the power of shared experiences too, with 83% of people saying that moments like going to a concert or football match with loved ones bring them happiness.2
For others, a change of scenery is the best way to reset. From weekend city breaks to a quick escape to a sunny beach, new environments can help shake off seasonal fatigue and leave you feeling refreshed. Saving a little regularly for a sunny day can help you get away and do wonders for your wellbeing.
And it’s not just about feeling good – hobbies and experiences can be great for your physical health too. Regular activities like cycling, yoga, or even walking can lower your risk of major illnesses like heart disease, strokes, and type 2 diabetes. In fact, staying active could reduce your risk of early death by up to 30%.3
With all these benefits, you’d think we’d all be prioritising time (and money) for hobbies and experiences, but the reality is different. Our figures show that just 9% of us save specifically for experiences with loved ones.4
Putting your money where the fun is
So, it’s clear that hobbies and travel can do wonders for our wellbeing, but let’s be honest – they can also come with a price tag. A gym membership, for example, costs an average of £88 per month.5 Weekend getaways, art supplies, or even a new pair of hiking boots can all add up.
That’s why setting savings goals that align with what you love is so important. Alongside any long-term objectives like saving for a home or for retirement, you can also set out savings goals tailored to your hobbies and travel plans, such as workshops, new equipment, or weekend getaways.
If you’re planning a big adventure, investing in new gear, or simply saving up for more meaningful experiences, having a dedicated savings pot can also make a difference.
At Coventry Building Society, we offer a range of savings options to help you put money aside for the things that matter. Our easy access accounts let you save steadily while earning interest with a variable rate and give you the flexibility to withdraw funds whenever you need.6 If you don't plan to dip into your money often, you can explore our limited access accounts. They offer higher interest rates and a set number of free withdrawals, rewarding you for saving without taking money our frequently.7
After a long winter, there’s nothing better than investing in the things that you love, whether that’s picking up a new hobby, exploring somewhere new, or simply making more time for what matters. With a little planning and the right savings approach, you can turn your plans into reality without breaking the bank.
1. Source - https://toyworldmag.co.uk/new-study-from-hornby-hobbies-reveals-hobbies-boost-wellbeing/
3. Source - https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/exercise-health-benefits/
4. Source - https://www.coventrybuildingsociety.co.uk/content/dam/cbs/member/pdfs/brand/save-for-your-sunny-days.pdf
5. Source - https://www.puregym.com/blog/uk-fitness-report-gym-statistics/
6. Source - https://www.coventrybuildingsociety.co.uk/member/savings/easy-access.html
7. Source - https://www.coventrybuildingsociety.co.uk/member/savings/limited-access.html
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