5 Stress-Relieving Hobbies To Incorporate Into Your Everyday Life

As a BetterHelp
affiliate, we receive compensation from BetterHelp if
you purchase products or services through the links
provided

It’s no secret that life can be stressful. Between work, family, and social obligations, it can feel like there’s never a break. However, studies have shown that incorporating a hobby into your everyday life can help reduce stress levels and improve your overall well-being.

Hobbies can allow you to think about something other than your everyday worries and provide a creative outlet to express yourself. There are a variety of hobbies that can be beneficial for stress relief, and it’s essential to find one that suits your interests and lifestyle.

It is important to alleviate stress and gain the health benefits that come along with it. Too much stress in your life can have serious consequences, such as mental health issues (like anxiety and depression), high blood pressure, and even heart disease. Finding an activity that you enjoy can help you reduce stress levels and improve your overall health

Here are five hobbies that can help relieve stress:

1. Walking in Nature

One of the easiest ways to reduce stress is to walk in nature. Studies have shown that spending time in nature can lower blood pressure, heart rate, and cortisol levels—all of which are stress markers. Furthermore, walking has also been shown to increase endorphins, hormones that boost mood and act as natural painkillers.

Any form of exercise is essential for stress management, but walking is a low-impact activity that is easy to do and doesn’t require any special equipment. Make an effort to go for a walk in the park or take a nature hike on the weekends. You can also find ways to incorporate nature into your daily life, such as walking to work or taking a break outside for fresh air during your lunch break.

Taking up running or jogging is another excellent stress reliever. Not only does it provide the same benefits as walking, but it can also give you a sense of accomplishment. Set small goals at first, such as running for 10 minutes three times per week. As you get stronger and more comfortable, you can gradually increase your goal to 20 or 30 minutes daily.

2. Listening to Music To Relieve Stress

Another easy way to de-stress is by listening to music. Music has been shown to have therapeutic effects and can help lower cortisol levels and blood pressure. In addition, music can also boost mood-enhancing hormones such as dopamine and serotonin.

Some music has been curated to calm anxiety and help listeners relax. This type of music is typically slower and has a steadier beat. Many different genres of music can be relaxing, such as classical, jazz, and ambient. You can find relaxation music online or on Spotify and Pandora.

So, whether commuting to work or taking a break from your desk, pop in your headphones and listen to your favorite tunes.

3. Practising Yoga or Meditation For Stress Relief

If you’re looking for a more active way to de-stress, consider practicing yoga or meditation. Both yoga and meditation have been shown to lower cortisol levels and heart rates while improving sleep quality. Furthermore, yoga has also been linked with increased levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)—a neurotransmitter that has calming effects on the brain. If you’re looking for a more interactive way to unwind and reduce stress, you can also explore stress-relief techniques through guided meditation or yoga sessions available on online platforms or mobile apps, which often include a helpful clip video demonstrating various relaxation exercises and poses.

This is perhaps one of the most recommended stress-relieving hobbies. It can be done in the comfort of your own home with very little equipment. There are many different yoga styles and meditation techniques, so you can find one that suits your needs and preferences.

Connect one-on-one with a Psychiatrist

In your free time, search for yoga classes or tutorials online. Once you get the hang of it, you can easily practice yoga or meditation at home without attending class.

Your physical health will thank you for taking up yoga, too. You can’t go wrong with this stress-relieving hobby with many health benefits, including improved flexibility, better posture, and increased muscle strength.

4. Reading Books

There is an abundance of books that help to reduce stress, whether it’s through fiction, non-fiction, or even poetry. Studies have shown that reading can help lower cortisol levels and heart rate while also providing a distraction from stressful thoughts.

Not only does reading provide stress relief, but it can also be a great way to learn new things and escape reality for a little while. You could even have a stab at creative writing yourself to help you relax.

Adult colouring books have also become popular in recent years as a way to de-stress. The act of coloring requires focus and attention, which can help to clear your mind and relax your body.

Books relieve stress because they can be enjoyed anywhere, anytime. Keep a book with you on your commute or in your bag for moments when you need to take a break.

5. Playing Video Games

If you’re looking for stress-relieving hobbies that are a little more fun and adventurous, try playing video games. Although it may seem counterintuitive, some video games can actually help to reduce stress.

Action games, in particular, have been shown to lower cortisol levels and heart rate while also distracting from stressful thoughts. These games can also boost mood-enhancing hormones such as dopamine and serotonin.

Many ‘cozy’ games have been designed to help players relax and relieve stress. These games typically have a slower pace and are set in calming environments. Some popular stress-relieving video games include Animal Crossing, Stardew Valley, and Flutter: Butterfly Sanctuary.

Fun hobbies like playing video games can be a great way to de-stress after a long day. And, with so many different genres and themes to choose from, there’s sure to be a game out there that suits your needs.

Conclusion: Take Up Stress Relieving Hobbies To Better Your Mental Health

There are many ways to reduce stress, and taking up a new hobby is a great way to do it. From reading and writing to playing video games and practicing yoga, there are plenty of stress-relieving hobbies for you to try.

So, if you’re looking for ways to reduce stress, try picking up a new hobby. Not only will you lower your stress levels, but you might also find a new passion in life.

FAQs

What hobbies are good for mental health?

Some hobbies that are good for mental health include reading books, playing video games, practising yoga, and colouring. These activities can help to reduce stress levels and provide a distraction from stressful thoughts.

What are good hobbies to release anger?

Some good hobbies to release anger include physical activities such as running, boxing, or kickboxing. These activities can help to release pent-up energy and frustration safely and healthily. Other helpful hobbies for anger management include writing, listening to music, and spending time in nature.

Do video games reduce anxiety?

Some video games have been shown to reduce anxiety by distracting from stressful thoughts and promoting relaxation. Games that require focus and attention can also help to clear the mind and lower cortisol levels. However, it is essential to note that not all video games are beneficial for mental health.

What are some stress relieving hobbies for moms?

Some stress-relieving hobbies for moms include reading, writing, practicing yoga, and adult coloring.