The following is a guest post by Cheryl Conklin. Cheryl is a freelance writer, tutor, blogger, adventurer, traveler, and creator of Wellness Central in her free time. Ms. Conklin created Wellness Central, a wellness blog focusing on improving physical and mental health, because she believes one can’t have physical health without mental health and vice versa. 

Benefits of Hobbies

Thinking of trying something new?  Young or old, a new hobby is a great way to enrich your life.  Whether you’re looking for something to do with your downtime, ready to learn a new skill, or in need of an activity that resets your perspective, hobbies can be a boon to your life, creating meaning, purpose, and a sense of achievement.

Fun and necessary.  While it may seem like a luxury, participating in a hobby offers a lot of important benefits to your mental health.  For example, one of the best things about a hobby that you choose is that it’s your hobby.  You decide what you’re doing and when you’re doing it, and in a world where our choices are often limited by deadlines and financial obligations, it’s wonderful to have something of your own to provide a sense of control.  A hobby not only gives you something to be passionate about, but it’s a stress-free way to relax as opposed to lounging on the couch. Focusing on the task in front of you takes your mind off of the day’s stressors and provides a healthy outlet.

Another benefit from pursuing a hobby is the sense of achievement it provides.  There is nothing like setting out to do something and seeing the fruits of your labor.  That journey of accomplishment feels good!  Hobbies also give our lives purpose and meaning.  While engaged in a hobby, we satisfy a part of ourselves nothing else can.  We identify with our hobbies.  They are not just entertainment; hobbies fulfill a need to express ourselves in a unique way.  You can choose to share your hobby with others as well, or join a group, providing you with socialization, which has its own health benefits.

Therapeutic Hobbies for Mental Health

Therapeutic benefits.  The mental health benefits of hobbies can extend beyond our routine lives and can provide therapy for us when we need it.  For instance, participating in a hobby can be particularly helpful to those in recovery.  When recovering from an addiction, you can feel isolated or bored, states of being which, left unchecked, can lead to relapse if you aren’t careful.

What’s right for me?  There are great ways to jump into a new hobby, whether you opt to pursue something online or join with a group of friends.  Not sure what sort of hobby is right for you?  Here are a few suggestions:

Sew something beautiful (or practical).  Sewing is a great skill to pick up (who hasn’t had a ripped seam that needed repair?), but it can also be an artistic, calming activity you can do on your own or with friends.  Even if you’ve never picked up a needle and thread, there are lots of online resources that can help you learn the basics or give you ideas on projects that are perfect for beginners.

Learn music.  Learning to play a musical instrument is good for your well-being.  In fact, LiveScience explains learning to read and play music is like exercise for your brain, helping to improve cognitive function and offset the effects of aging.  It can even lower blood pressure, reduce stress, and lower anxiety and depression. 

Do some writing.  Do you enjoy writing?  Keeping a journal is a great hobby, and there are unique health benefits from those thoughtful expressions.  Journaling is a great stress reducer, helping you to organize your ideas, process emotions and problem solve.  Establishing a blog is another way to engage your wordsmithing skills.  You can start a blog on your own; it’s easy and usually free, and in time, you can even make money from it. 

Get out on the water. Boating is a great way to get outdoors, have fun with friends and family, and stay active. Before heading out to your local body of water, make sure to take safety precautions for you and your boat, such as purchasing life jackets for young ones and getting some dock bumpers to cushion your boat when you return from your boat trip.

Give to others.  Doing something for others is another particularly healthy hobby.  Consider volunteering your time for a charity you’re passionate about.  You’ll be at lower risk for depression, reduce your stress levels and even release feel-good chemicals in your brain.  Love animals?  Check in with your local shelter.  Soft spot for seniors?  The Area Agency on Aging can connect you with opportunities near you.  Are you a book lover?  Your public library could probably use a hand.  If you prefer not to leave home, many charities need electronic newsletters created and phone calls made.  The possibilities are endless. 

Good for you!  Ready to jump into a new hobby?  Go ahead and try something new, and start enjoying a richer, healthier life!

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