If you are struggling with your mental health, you aren’t alone. In addition to professional treatments for common conditions like depression and anxiety, many medical experts recommend involving yourself in meaningful activities such as hobbies that you are passionate about.
Whether you’re looking for a new hobby to pick up or wanting to pick up an old hobby you used to enjoy, here are 5 hobbies that can greatly benefit your mental health.
1. Writing
Many medical professionals agree that one of the best ways to express yourself and process your emotions is to write. While it can be extremely beneficial to write in a journal every day, it can also be helpful to write for fun. From short stories to poetry, getting any thoughts you might have out on paper can help to spark creativity while releasing stress and other symptoms of mental illnesses like anxiety or depression.
2. Knitting or Sewing
One thing that many people report being helpful in the management of mental illness is keeping your hands and mind occupied while doing an activity. One of the best ways to do this is by trying your hand at knitting or sewing. This can be done while listening to music, watching a TV show, or spending time with loved ones, yet engages enough of your brain to distract your mind from negative thoughts. Knitting or sewing can also spark creativity and requires the use of your hands which will keep you from checking your phone or other electronic devices (which is proven to have negative effects on your mental wellbeing).
3. Motorcycling
Looking for an adventurous activity to help you break out of your mundane daily routine? Studies show that riding a motorcycle can act as a natural mood booster and stress reliever while adding some excitement to your daily life. Just be sure to wear proper protective gear such as a Get Lowered Cycles helmet!
4. Hiking
One of the best things you can do for your mental health is to take the time to enjoy nature. Hiking is one of the most effective ways to get your body moving and to spend some quality time outdoors, both of which are shown to alleviate stress and symptoms of depression and anxiety. If you’ve never hiked before, you can find beginner-friendly trails in your area on a site like alltrails.com.
Article Submitted By Community Writer
