How Hobbies Can Benefit Your Health

Person going on a hike.

Autumn is often associated with transformations and transitions. With fall in full force and shorter daylight hours, now is the perfect time to pick up a new hobby or skill. A hobby is an activity that is done during leisure time, something that you look forward to and enjoy. Having hobbies can be connected to living a happier and healthier life.

Harvard Medical School reported that, based on a 2023 study covering 93,000 participants in 16 countries, participants who had hobbies, “reported better health, more happiness, fewer symptoms of depression, and higher life satisfaction.” While hobbies cannot be said to be the cause for better health and happiness, hobbies are associated with creativity, self-expression, relaxation, cognitive simulation, and sensory engagement, all of which are connected to better health and wellbeing.

A hobby can be almost anything, including reading, hiking, baking, or even collecting something. Pursuing a hobby can be exciting and fulfilling. There are many fun and exciting options to get involved in, no matter what you’re interested in. Once you find something that you are truly passionate about, it can add a bit more fun and engagement into your life.

How Hobbies Can Be Beneficial to Your Health

Reduces stress and improves wellbeing. Research has shown that engaging in enjoyable activities during your free time can lower your blood pressure, cortisol (your body’s main stress hormone) levels, and depression. When you do activities that bring you joy, you can feel a sense of purpose and accomplishment that can make you feel successful and uplifted.

Improves relationships. When you pick up a hobby, often, you may see or hear about others who share that interest. Finding people with similar passions can be a great way to meet new friends and build relationships.

Teaches patience. When you start a new hobby, you first have to learn how to do it, which can take time and perseverance. Try setting a goal within your hobby and staying persistent and patient until you achieve it. By the end, you will be rewarded by the result of your efforts and will likely feel encouraged to develop more complicated skills.

Helps alleviate boredom. Hobbies are a great way to fill up idle time. They offer a creative outlet that gets you away from your phone and TV and onto something that is more stimulating and engaging to your brain. Having a hobby will give you something to look forward to during your free time.

Two older men starting a new hobby by learning how to knit.

Develop new skills. The more you do something, the better you will get at it. Having a hobby can help you develop skills you already have while building new ones along the way. You may even become skilled enough to teach others how to participate in your new hobby!

Hobbies to Try Out This Fall

1. Hiking is a great way to get outside and exercise while exploring a new area. Look up hiking trails in your region to find the best trails near you.

2. Knitting and crocheting may remind you of your grandma or great aunt, but it’s actually a wonderful way to occupy your time and express your creative side! Bonus: You can give your friends and family handmade birthday and holiday gifts.

A father helping his child bake, creating a hobby for them to share.

3. Baking is another great way to spend your free time in the fall. There are plenty of sweet and savory recipes to try, including pumpkin muffins, cinnamon rolls, or rosemary focaccia. Whatever you choose, you’re sure to end up with a tasty treat afterwards!

4. Origami is the traditional Japanese art of paper folding. One sheet of paper could turn into a swan, a butterfly, or even a dragon! The only thing you need is some origami paper and online instructions, and you’re all set to make the paper world of your dreams.

5. Reading is a perfect hobby to pick up in the fall, as temperatures drop. We recommend picking up a new book from your local library and then cozying up with a blanket and a warm drink. A 2009 study revealed that reading can reduce your stress up to 68%. So, go pick up that book and relax!

Conclusion

As we all settle into our fall and winter routines, take the time to pick up a new hobby. Whether you want to develop a new skill, express your creativity, or just relax, hobbies can help you do that. If you're interested in trying out something new, click the link below to check out Acenda's blog on journaling!

Click the link below to learn more about how journaling can help you take care of your mental wellbeing!

About the Author:

Riley de Jong, Communications Strategist at Acenda, attended the University of California – Los Angeles for her undergraduate degree in Communication and minor in Entrepreneurship. She enjoys supporting her community, telling engaging stories, and connecting with others.

Sources:

https://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/reading-stress-relief

https://www.verywellmind.com/the-importance-of-hobbies-for-stress-relief-3144574

https://www.oberlo.com/blog/hobby-ideas

https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/having-a-hobby-tied-to-happiness-and-well-being