Chewing Gum Day: How small everyday rituals contribute to mental balance

On the occasion of Chewing Gum Day, celebrated every first Friday in February, Mars highlights the importance of small habits that help people cope with everyday stress and maintain mental balance. In today’s fast-paced lifestyle, even simple rituals—such as chewing gum—can have a positive impact on focus, relaxation, and a sense of control throughout the day.

Chewing gum has accompanied humanity for thousands of years—around 7,000 years ago, people in Northern Europe used birch bark resin to freshen their breath, while in the late 19th century, chewing gum took on the form we know today. From the moment William Wrigley Jr. began mass production, this product evolved beyond its original function to become part of everyday life and global culture, appearing in music, film, and pop iconography across generations.

Today, according to recommendations from the World Dental Federation and numerous national dental associations, sugar-free chewing gum contributes to oral health by stimulating saliva production. At the same time, the brand Orbit shows that it can also serve as a simple, modern ritual—a short break and a “moment for yourself,” especially present in the daily lives of younger generations.

Research* conducted by the Orbit brand indicates that so-called micro-stressors have become an integral part of everyday life—three quarters of respondents report experiencing them daily. The most common sources of stress include being overwhelmed with responsibilities and disagreements with family and friends, which 48% of respondents experience at least once a day.

For this reason, as many as 85% of Generation Z and millennials emphasise that “me time” is extremely important, as it helps them relax, disconnect, and regain focus. The research further shows that people cope with micro-stress in different ways — by walking in nature (42%), talking about their feelings (38%), engaging in physical activity, or consuming content that helps them mentally reset — confirming that the method itself is less important than finding small, personal rituals that support mental balance throughout the day.

Chewing Gum Day is therefore an opportunity to remember that caring for mental health does not always require major changes. Sometimes, it is enough to pause for a moment, take a short break, and find a small ritual that helps you continue the day with greater focus, calmness, and energy.

Mars continues to invest in research and projects focused on mental health and well-being. Through various global studies and initiatives, the company explores how small habits, daily breaks, and positive rituals can contribute to stress reduction, improved focus, and better everyday functioning. This holistic approach to well-being is part of Mars’ long-term strategy, recognising that mental health plays a key role in quality of life, as well as productivity and job satisfaction.

By marking this day, Mars and the Orbit brand continue to remind us of the importance of simple habits that, although small, can have a significant impact on everyday mental well-being. The company also encourages people to value small moments of pause — from planning the day to taking a brief “me moment,” such as enjoying a warm drink or a piece of gum.