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Wellness wanted: Why we’re all due a ‘booost’

jesso28028

jesso28028

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three people enjoying sunshine boosters

Wellness wanted: Why we’re all due a ‘booost’ (and how to get one for free)

Let’s be honest: it’s been a long winter. And while the evenings are finally getting lighter, it seems our collective batteries are still running a bit low.

At giffgaff, we wanted to see how the nation is really doing. Our latest research found that a staggering 88% of Brits are currently in need of a mood lift. In fact, a fifth of us feel the need for a “pick-me-up” every two to three days just to keep our energy levels up.


The self-care gap

Despite that craving for a bit of TLC, there’s a bit of a problem. Our research found that one in three Brits haven’t had a single self-care treat in the last 12 months.

Why? It mostly comes down to “real life” getting in the way:

  • 19% say rising household bills are holding them back from spending.
  • 11% feel that even small acts of self-care feel too indulgent when money is tight.
  • 58% have resorted to “window shopping” for spa days or dream holidays on their phones just to get a temporary mood lift - with no intention of actually booking!

Did you know? Almost a quarter (23%) of Brits experience their biggest mood and energy slump between 4pm and 7pm.


We brought the ‘booost’ to London

We believe everyone deserves a lift, regardless of their budget. That’s why yesterday, we opened the giffgaff Booost Bar in East London.

people queueing for the giffgaff boost bar

Designed to combat that late-afternoon slump, we invited guests to recharge for free with experiences inspired by the top ways Brits like to reset:

  • Sunshine booosters: Relaxing massage chairs with integrated heated blankets and SAD lamps.
  • Oxygen stations: Revitalising scents including peppermint, eucalyptus, ginger, and lemon.
  • Mood food: Treats to refuel, from Lion’s Mane hot chocolate to apple cider vinegar and pomegranate gummies.
people serving healthy food

How we’re boosting your data, too

We know a pop-up in London doesn’t reach everyone, but our 200% data boost does! Just like our Booost Bar, our latest deals are designed to give you more without asking for more in return.

As our CEO, Kate Dohaney, puts it:

“At a time when many providers are increasing prices, we’re focused on doing the opposite at giffgaff, offering greater value, including data boosts of up to 200% at no extra cost.”

The Big Deal

You can now grab 75GB of data instead of 25GB for just £10. This applies to both new and existing members and is available until 18th May.


Self-care across the nation: What’s your city’s secret?

Whether it’s a long walk (40%) or a good book (24%), self-care looks different depending on where you are. Our research showed some fun trends across the UK:

City Favourite way to recharge
Belfast The manicure capital (24% indulge frequently)
Manchester The bravest of the bunch - most likely to book an ice bath
Birmingham Big fans of the professional blow-dry (16%)
Cardiff Opting for the glow with collagen masks (12%)
London Leaning into massages (22%) and red light therapy
uk self care infographic

Ready for your own boost?

Whether you’re in need of more data to scroll through those “dream holiday” pics or just want a plan that gives you more for your money, we’ve got you covered.

Check out our boosted monthly plans here!


¹ Research of 2,000 UK adults conducted by Censuswide between 27th February – 3rd March 2026. ² Plan must be activated between 2/2/26 and 18/5/26 to qualify. Eligibility criteria, terms and exclusions apply, see giffgaff.com/terms/promotions.


Written by jesso28028

jesso28028
Jess is a content writer at giffgaff.