One of the inevitable and unavoidable aspects of our daily routine is stress. It can be imposed on us by someone else, or we could be putting ourselves under a lot of stress. Whatever the source, it is something we have to cope with successfully if we want to avoid serious problems. We can, of course, also learn to avoid unnecessary stress and become more immune to it, but there is no escape from it. So, we have to learn how to live with it.
Stress is usually related to work or family issues. Meeting deadlines and targets, completing tasks, handling house chores and all the stuff related to kids, if you have any, is too much for an average person who doesn’t do anything to help themselves cope. That’s why we’ve prepared a list of some of the most efficient hobbies that should help you relieve stress.
Keeping a journal
If you keep a journal, you have no deadlines or word-count restrictions. Also, don’t worry about the style, just write down your feelings and thoughts about pretty much anything. Doctors say that journaling is useful for reducing stress, as well as symptoms of anxiety and depression. So, get creative, you’ll definitely feel better.
Music
If you can play an instrument, but have neglected that skill, it’s time to dusted off your instrument and started playing again. Even if you’ve never played an instrument, you can still take up lessons or follow YouTube tutorials and learn to play some simple songs at first. Music can help you deal with stress, whether you play it or just listen. Play your favorite artist or songs and feel how much better you’re feeling.
Gardening
Another hobby that is widely accepted as a stress-relief is gardening. It lowers the level of the stress hormone cortisol and boosts positive mood. No matter how big your garden is, be careful and patient, and see to it that it looks great. You’ll also need to rely on some tools and be sure you opt for a reliable brand, such as the famous Briggs and Stratton, if you want to avoid the stress of having low-quality tools with which you can’t perform the necessary gardening tasks.
Reading
When you feel you’re overwhelmed with everything life is throwing your way, turn to your good, old friend – the book. Whether it’s an electronic or print edition makes little difference. The most important thing is that you’ll be able to escape from reality, at least for a few minutes each day. That will reduce your heart rate and ease tension in the muscles, which means you’ll be less stressed.
Hiking
What better way to help you cope with stress than hiking? Not only will you spend time outdoors, exploring various routes, but you’ll also improve your health significantly. You’ll notice how your anxiety is disappearing as you walk and the sight of the nature around you will have a very soothing effect. You can go alone if you like or join a group, depending on your mood. Just make sure you have the right clothes and gear and don’t misjudge your ability, especially if you’re not in good shape or have never been hiking.
Dancing
One more hobby that is more physical is definitely dancing. You listen to some music and make your body move to the rhythm and dance away all the troubles, at least for a short while. Apart from the apparent physical benefit, dancing has been proven to provide more joy than other activities, such as cycling or exercising on the treadmill. Another benefit is that you can choose the dance according to your age and physical ability, without the fear you’ll look ridiculous.
Video games
Many adults find computer games to be excellent when it comes to dealing with stress. You practice your mental skills and vent any frustration in a healthy and non-dangerous way. However, you need to be careful, since games can be very addictive and the last thing you need when dealing with stress is an addiction.
Coloring
Adult coloring books have taken the world by storm recently. Experts claim that coloring is similar to meditation in a way that you think about nothing else at the moment and you’re completely focused on what you’re doing at that particular moment. No wonder such coloring books sell so well all over the world.
Cooking
Some people find cooking extremely relaxing and helpful when it comes to unwinding. You might join a cookery class or simply follow some recipes and tutorials available online. You’ll both be creative, and your stress levels will surely go down while you prepare a delicious meal for yourself and your loved one(s).
Just like we are all different, there is no universal answer to the question which hobby is the most efficient. It depends on many factors, such as your preferences, talents, interests and the time you can dedicate to it. However, one thing is guaranteed: if you don’t do anything to combat stress, it will eventually get to you and seriously damage your health and life.