The last few days of December can feel like a slightly chaotic limbo. You might find yourself ferociously vacuuming pine needles, tossing leftover chocolates into the bin, and searching online for anything tagged “healthy recipes.”
According to a new poll of 2,000 UK adults, a staggering 72 percent say they hit a tipping point during those post-Christmas days, known as Twixmas, when they simply cannot wait for a clean slate—an official January reset.
In fact, 34 percent plan to get right back on track by 2 January, while 21 percent intend to keep the festive vibes going until 6 January, the day most head back to work.
Yet, for the vast majority, it all boils down to some universal signals that say, “Enough with the mince pies—bring on the kale.”
These tell-tale signs range from undertaking marathon tidying sessions (the top indicator for 38 percent) to a sudden need to rip down the Christmas tree (25 percent) and a pang of nausea at the thought of yet another turkey sandwich (24 percent).
Notably, 22 percent show their eagerness to shake off December’s indulgences by purchasing a brand-new diary or planner—cue the official kickoff of that January reset mindset.
Other revealing hints include hurling remaining chocolates straight into the nearest bin (18 percent), pledging to cook only wholesome meals (16 percent), and encouraging children to do something productive (13 percent).
It seems that once the holiday party fizzles out, Britons are more than ready to wave goodbye to December’s treats.
However, HelloFresh’s findings point out that more than half of respondents (58 percent) still find it tough to slip back into a healthy routine—understandable given that many have spent weeks lounging in comfy clothes, grazing on festive leftovers, and binge-watching TV.
Even so, nine in ten (90 percent) place a strong emphasis on regular, healthy home-cooked meals in January, underlining that fresh eating habits remain a central goal.
Mimi Morley, Senior Recipe Development Manager at HelloFresh, offers practical insight, stating: “January is the perfect time to reset, and we know that getting back into a routine can be tough, especially when it comes to mealtimes, which is why we’re making it easy to get a nutritious, home-cooked meal on the table without all the hassle.
“The meal kits are full of fresh ingredients and simple instructions, so even on those busy evenings, families can enjoy dinner together without spending hours in the kitchen.
It’s all about making mealtime a little easier, so families can focus on what really matters – being together.”
Ready to Box Up December?
Between vacuuming pine needles out of every corner and swearing off leftover sandwiches, the shift toward a January reset is well underway.
There’s a clear craving for health-focused practices—listening to wellbeing podcasts or craving nutrient-rich, green vegetables both feature on the list of top signs that signal a new mindset. Some even dream of going wild swimming to re-energise, while others just yearn to get properly dressed again.
For many, a structured plan can help sustain this wave of motivation. Jotting down menus for the week, prepping vegetable-packed lunches, and stocking the fridge with fresh ingredients all contribute to a streamlined post-Twixmas lifestyle.
Moreover, setting smaller goals—like trying one new dish each week—can make this transition less daunting. It’s about finding that sweet spot between indulging over the holidays and embracing better habits without feeling overwhelmed.
Why a January Reset Matters
The festive period often tempts us to push aside our regular routines. After all, how many times do we reach for that cheeky leftover sandwich rather than preparing a meal? Once the holidays close, it’s normal to feel both physically and mentally drained.
A January reset allows individuals to pause, reflect, and shift gears toward healthier habits—such as prioritising nourishing meals, exercising regularly, and making personal downtime a priority.
Taking down the tree and ditching leftover chocolate may be the obvious outward signs, but the real payoff comes from reaping the benefits of conscious living.
That includes saving money on takeaways, feeling more energetic, and simply enjoying the comfort of routines that are easy to maintain well beyond January.
Making the Most of 2025 Planners
| Signs You’re Ready for a Healthy January Reset | Percentage |
|---|---|
| You’re frantically tidying and organising the house | 38% |
| You cannot WAIT to tear the tree down | 25% |
| You’re sick of leftover sandwiches | 24% |
| You’ve purchased a new 2025 planner | 22% |
| You’re ready to hit the gym | 20% |
| You’ve thrown any leftover chocolate away | 18% |
| You start pledging to cook wholesome food | 16% |
| You have the desire to get up and dressed | 15% |
| You’re craving water and herbal tea | 13% |
| You’re nagging the children to do something constructive | 13% |
| You’re vacuuming pine needles madly | 11% |
| You’re Googling healthy recipes / ideas | 9% |
| You’re searching for healthy supplements online | 7% |
| You want to sit around the table again rather than eat in front of the telly | 6% |
| You’ve signed up to yoga class | 6% |
| You’re done with cheese and biscuits | 6% |
| You’re dreaming of green vegetables | 5% |
| You never want to see another goose fat potato | 5% |
| You’re listening to healthy podcasts | 5% |
| You’re dreaming of wild swimming | 4% |
Interestingly, 22 percent of those surveyed have already grabbed a 2025 planner, indicating an eagerness to map out long-term goals.
While meal planning or weekly to-do lists might not sound thrilling, they can help solidify a new rhythm. This period of reinvention can foster consistency as families and individuals settle into practical daily schedules that support better eating, improved fitness, and more productive days.
Those who are still savouring the festive season until 6 January may worry about missing the bandwagon. But experts suggest that establishing a January reset doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing leap.
Easing in is equally valid—whether that means adding a portion of vegetables to meals or choosing one home-cooked dinner per week, small steps can pave the way for lasting, positive changes.