Saturday 3 January, 2026
Mental Fitness: The Missing Piece in the UK’s New Year’s Resolutions
By Rajesh Ananda
As the start of a new year brings with it the annual wave of resolutions and commitments to self-improvement, one crucial aspect often goes overlooked: mental fitness.
While many focus on physical health and appearance, the impact of stress, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion on everyday life is often ignored. This issue is prevalent not only in the UK but also throughout Europe, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds.
Long working hours, financial pressures, constant use of technology, and ongoing uncertainty all contribute to chronic stress and take a toll on psychological and physical well-being. This is a problem that no longer affects a specific group; professionals, parents, caregivers, students, and retirees alike report rising levels of stress and mental strain.
Mental fitness is not a luxury but a necessity. Just as regular exercise keeps the body strong and resilient, meditation serves the same purpose for the mind.
“Meditation is not about belief, religion, or withdrawing from daily life,” explains Rajesh Ananda, a seasoned meditation teacher with over fifty years of experience. “It is a practical, accessible practice that helps calm the nervous system, stabilise the mind, and build resilience to stress.”
Numerous studies have shown that regular meditation practice can support emotional balance, improve sleep quality, and enhance overall well-being. It is a life skill that is increasingly recognised and valued in today’s fast-paced society.
Moreover, modern meditation does not require significant lifestyle changes or adherence to a particular belief system. It is designed to fit into everyday life, supporting individuals where they are, rather than asking them to step away from their responsibilities.
As the interest in meditation and mental well-being continues to grow across the UK, Ananda encourages people to consider a new kind of resolution this year: to care for the mind with the same dedication given to the body.
“In a world of increasing complexity and pressure, mental fitness is becoming a necessity and should not be treated as an optional extra,” Ananda asserts. “This January, alongside physical fitness goals and healthy eating plans, I invite people across the UK to prioritize caring for their mind.”
ENDS
