One of the most impactful tools in our well-being tool kit is the intentional use of a hobby. From mental health benefits to increased creativity and more energy – hobbies are the hidden gem of holistic well-being that is not only impactful but FUN!
A hobby is defined as an activity that we do primarily for enjoyment during our free or leisure time. Hobbies come in all different shapes and sizes. From learning a new language to baking sweet treats to playing recreational sports – they all share the commonality of having the potential to positively impact our lives. Unfortunately, the world and culture we are currently living in do not necessarily set us up for hobby success.
Although our childhood may have been filled with fun and extracurricular activities, typically once we transition into adulthood productivity becomes the priority. Hustle culture has us believing that our worth is based on our output despite the hit our well-being may take in the process. We also are ever connected through social media and other technologies – which are specifically designed to release just enough dopamine to keep us coming back for more.
The truth is that hobbies or meaningful leisure activities could be the antidote to this hustle and burnout culture that we are in. If you are interested in learning the reasons why keep reading about the 5 Ways a Hobby Can Improve Your Life.
1. Improves Mental Health
With rates of depression and anxiety on the rise, it’s important to have as my tools in your well-being toolkit as possible. Research has found that recreation and leisure are an integral part of the mental health healing journey. So having a hobby or two that you enjoy is an incredibly helpful well-being tool that is often left off the list. Also, hobbies done with others can create a sense of community – leading to feelings of connection and deepening our relationships, which is a strong indicator of positive mental health.
2. Leads to Human Flourishing
The Theory of Human Flourishing states that in order to have optimal well-being, humans need to be engaged with the world around them. Having a hobby is a surefire way to enter into Flow State. One study found that when participants engaged in creative pursuits, they scored much higher on tests of positive affect and flourishing than when they did not. Grab those adult coloring books and let your creative flag fly.
3. Reduces Stress Levels
Many of us live in a constant state of flight or fight. The environments we work in, the demands society has placed on us and the daily stressors of everyday life have metaphorically flipped the lid on our brain’s ability to deal. This, in turn, causes the release of cortisol – which although very helpful in times of need, and, causes havoc on our physical well-being if chronically high. Hobbies have the potential to help us relax and enter into a state of rest and digest. So not only are these activities enjoyable in the moment – but can help us feel better and less stressed long-term.
4. Positively Impacts Physical Health
Hobbies that involve some sort of movement – whether it’s running, yoga, beach combing, or urban foraging, will have positive impacts on your physical health. Not only will they help lower cortisol levels, but the physical activity component of these hobbies results in more energy, weight loss, decreased blood pressure and so many more wonderful outcomes. The best part is that there are endless hobbies you can choose from to receive these incredible health benefits.
5. Strengthens Social Connections
Finally, hobbies give us a medium for meeting and connecting with others that many other activities of daily life do not. The shared goal and enjoyment of many meaningful leisure activities allow us to become more playful and open to sharing moments of connection with others. These shared interests and passions create a sense of community which is so impactful on our resiliency and ability to cope when life is stressful.
Let me know in the comments below a hobby that you love to do and how it has improved your life.