Sometimes it’s difficult to shake off the pressures of work once we get home. Finding activities we love and investing our time and energy into them is a great way to go beyond distraction and find genuine relaxation! Here are four hobbies to help you lower stress after a long workday.
Germinating Your Green Thumb
Gardening is an increasingly popular activity, especially for people working remotely who have plenty of time to gaze out at the fruits of their labor. While the results aren’t always perfect, the journey of caring for something each day is pleasant in itself. Nothing in a garden moves quickly, so this routine-based hobby has a wonderfully calming effect on anyone struggling with stress.
Putting Together Puzzles
Many of us haven’t touched a jigsaw puzzle since childhood. However, long gone are the days of 10-piece puzzles. More complex, demanding puzzles feature piece counts above 500 and take well over an hour to complete alone. Whether you complete the puzzle in one sitting or spread your puzzle-finishing throughout the workweek, solving problems and completing the puzzle is mentally satisfying and rewarding.
Running the Distance
Exercise isn’t considered a hobby by everyone, but those who use running as a way to de-stress know how relaxing it is! The physical demand of jogging or running takes your mind away from any concerns, allowing you to ground your thoughts in the present. Running outdoors is an especially great way to get fresh air, enjoy new scenery, and breathe out your worries.
Getting Crafty With Quilting
Quilting is among the most demanding fabric-related hobbies out there, but the finished projects are too comforting to write off. Once you’ve collected the right materials, you can dive into hours of cutting, piecing, and stitching with the help of a pattern or design all your own. This process keeps your hands busy and entertains the creative and logistical sides of your brain. With an all-consuming process and an incredibly cozy result, quilting is an amazing way to de-stress!
Any of these four hobbies are a fantastic way to help you lower stress after a long workday. That said, any activity that takes your mind off your worries and helps you find a sense of ease or accomplishment is ideal! As long as you discover a project or pastime you love, you can lower your stress levels.