Life can feel like an endless cycle of work, eat, sleep, repeat. That’s where hobbies come in, breathing life into the mundane. They’re not just about passing the time; they’re about discovering what lights you up.
Engaging in hobbies has tangible mental health benefits. A 2019 study published in Psychological Science found that people who regularly engaged in leisure activities reported higher levels of happiness and lower levels of stress. Hobbies like painting, gardening, or dancing provide a creative outlet and help reduce anxiety by shifting your focus away from everyday worries. They can even enhance cognitive functioning by stimulating different areas of the brain.
Hobbies also foster social connections. Joining a club or group activity introduces you to like-minded people, creating a sense of belonging. So, pick up that guitar, start that book club, or finally try pottery. You’ll be surprised how much joy a little passion project can bring.
Tune into these articles Renny found for this week:
Works counselliing: The Importance of Hobbies- https://workscounselingcenter.com/importance-of-hobbies/
Glamour: Why hobbies are good for you- https://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/article/little-hobby-health-benefits-science Health Harvard: Having a hobby tied to happiness and well-being- https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/having-a-hobby-tied-to-happiness-and-well-being