10 Relaxing Hobbies To Calm Your Body And Mind.

Whenever I thought of hobbies, I never really linked it back to self care until I really understood what it meant to take care of your mental health. Relaxing hobbies are a way to break free from everyday life and just get back to being in touch with your own body and mind. It’s always good to remember that we are all so unique and something I might find the opposite of relaxing, might be calming hobbies to someone else. Having a hobby shouldn’t be something you have to overthink, it’s just something you love doing that makes you feel good. Whether it’s for 10 minutes or 3 hours, it turns any day into a good one.

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The benefits of relaxing hobbies.

Having calming hobbies can do wonders for your mental health. Taking time out of your day and spending it on something you enjoy doing is food for your soul. The most important thing about finding a relaxing hobby is that it makes you happy and calms your mind. No one can tell you what that is besides you. I found aerial silks to be very calming. If I had a bad day or felt on the off side I would work in a silk session and I would forget about everything and feel so good afterward. Having relaxing hobbies can do so much more than that. Here are a few benefits you might not have known about:

- Reduces stress: Having relaxing hobbies can help lower stress levels by providing an outlet for relaxation and mindfulness.

- Improves mental health: Calming hobbies does wonders for your mental health because you take the time to look after your mind and body and reduce stress along the way.

- Strengthens creativity: Calming hobbies often involve creative expression, which can stimulate the imagination and foster innovation in other areas of life.

- Better physical health: Some relaxing hobbies, such as yoga or gardening, offer physical benefits like increased flexibility, improved cardiovascular health, and reduced muscle tension.

- Fosters mindfulness: Many calming hobbies encourage mindfulness, allowing you to focus on the present moment and develop greater self-awareness.

- Better sleep: Engaging in calming activities before bedtime can promote better sleep quality by helping to relax the body and quiet the mind.

- Social connection: Participating in hobbies with others can create social connections allowing for bonding moments for other people in your life and strengthening your support system.

- Sense of accomplishment: Completing projects or achieving goals through relaxing hobbies can boost self-esteem and provide a sense of satisfaction.

- Emotional regulation: Calming hobbies offer a healthy way to manage emotions, providing a constructive outlet for processing feelings and reducing emotional overwhelm.

Calming hobbies you need to try at least once.

I love experiencing new things even though I know it might not be something I’ll stick to. Funny enough, most of my hobbies were once something I never saw myself doing. Strange how the world works right? Trying a few of these hobbies might just help you find something to calm your mind and find your inner happiness. You are unique and the only person you should be pleasing, if you like it, do it!

1. Journaling.

Journaling takes the first spot on my list for good reason; it’s one of the best ways to reduce stress, work through emotions, and get to know yourself better. Journaling is so much more than just a hobby, it’s a way to get rid of unwanted anxiety and find clarity in your life and feelings. Being able to sit down and write or even type your feelings allows for a safe space without judgment. Journaling isn’t all about writing down what happened in the day, it’s about being real with yourself about your feelings, goals, things you are grateful for, and even challenges you are facing.

Journaling has made a big difference in my life and I have learned a lot about who I really am and what I want in life. When I’m overwhelmed with emotions, I can work through them before saying or doing something I shouldn’t.

Believe me, when the words start flowing, it’s like they just won’t stop. If you need some inspiration, you can find journal prompts or a good journal almost anywhere. I love using a gratitude journal most because I feel it’s something I tend to forget to do and I underestimate myself and how far I’ve come. Journaling is as calming as a hobby can possibly get!

2. Pottery.

I feel relaxed just watching someone do pottery, it’s so mesmerizing and artistic. Pottery is an art form that can take time to perfect, but every step to getting there calms your body and mind. The sensory satisfaction you get from being able to use your hands to make something from a blob of clay is incredible. Not to mention the sense of accomplishment you feel for making something beautiful and seeing how you advance each time. Join a class or two and give it a go, even if it’s just for the experience, you might find yourself becoming addicted and relaxed.

3. Baking.

There is nothing quite as satisfying as baking the perfect bread or delicious cookies. The simple act of mixing flour, sugar, and eggs can be incredibly soothing, helping you forget about all the worries and focusing on what you’re doing. Not to mention the amazing smell that goes along with it. The options and challenges with baking really are endless and the reward is so much more worth it. I don’t think that there’s any other calming hobby that tastes quite this good.

4. Reading.

Have you ever found yourself so fully immersed in a book that you completely tune out the world around you? No matter the genre of book you love, a book can transport you to a whole different place without even leaving the room. Being taken out of the reality of your own world brings a calmness over you that will last. I love a good murder mystery and before I can even find myself I’ve finished the whole book and I’m on to the next one.

I don’t have as much time as I used to because of my boys running around, but when I do have a few minutes to spare, I try to work through a few pages and it does wonders for my stress levels. Find a book that catches your interest within the first few pages and before you know it, you’ll be sad it’s over. Never allow your imagination to fade away, keep reading and dreaming!

5. Meditation.

Most people have a big misconception about what meditation is, I know I did. It’s way less complicated than you might think and a fast-track way to get rid of stress and anxiety by just being present in the moment and feeling the world around you. By sitting in stillness and focusing on your breath, you are letting go of all the worries in your life and just focusing on the moment at hand.

When you first start meditating it can be hard to be present in the moment, but the more you practice. the longer your sessions will become. Being able to make meditation a part of your daily routine has so many benefits and is one of the most calming hobbies you can have.

Different ways to do meditation:

- Guided meditation: Following the instructions of a recorded or live meditation guide.

- Mindfulness meditation: Focusing on the present moment without judgment, often by observing the breath or sensations in the body.

- Body scan meditation: Bringing awareness to each part of the body, starting from the toes and moving up to the head.

- Loving-kindness meditation: Creating feelings of compassion and love towards oneself and others through guided phrases or visualization.

- Mantra meditation: Repeating a word, phrase, or sound (mantra) silently or aloud to focus the mind.

- Visualization meditation: Creating a mental image or scene to promote relaxation and positive emotions.

- Walking meditation: Practicing mindfulness while walking slowly and attentively, focusing on the sensations of each step.

- Progressive muscle relaxation: Systematically tensing and relaxing different muscle groups in the body to release tension.

- Breath awareness meditation: Observing the natural rhythm of the breath as it flows in and out of the body.

- Open awareness meditation: Expanding awareness to include all sensory experiences without focusing on any particular object or thought.

6. Painting or drawing.

Art is something that you can find yourself completely lost in and it washes away all the anxiety one brush stroke at a time. You can say a lot without having to use any words you can express yourself in a way that only you might understand. Being able to express your creativity creates a safe space to let out all the emotions and anxiety you might be feeling. As far as calming hobbies go, this one is pretty high up on the feeling relaxed scale.

Whether the art is any good or not, doesn’t really matter. If you love expressing yourself, don’t let anyone put you down. Investing in a good quality art kit won’t hurt either if you’re just starting.

7. Fishing.

If you find peace in nature, then fishing might just be for you! I love fishing from time to time, not necessarily for the catching fish part, but because I’m surrounded by nature without any distractions or worries. Feeling the sun on your face, water on your skin and hearing nature all around you brings a sense of calmness into your life. Being outside in nature is one of the best ways to get rid of any stress and anxiety you might have and it’s good for the mind, body and soul. Have you ever seen a sad person catching fish? Neither have I and there’s a pretty good reason for that!

8. Gardening.

You’ll start to see a pattern of being outside and relaxing, so it must be good for your mental health! Gardening is also a great way to blow off some steam without having to go too far away from home. Although I love gardening, I tend to look after plastic plants much better when life gets busy, but that’s just me! Gardening uses most of your senses making it a very relaxing hobby to do and being surrounded by nature is just a bonus.

Whether you have a spacious backyard or a few pots on a windowsill, gardening allows you to slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural world. If you don’t have somewhere you can plant a few herbs for your kitchen, try using a gardening system that will keep your plants happy no matter where they are.

9. Listening to music.

I don’t mean listening to music while you’re driving, working or busy with something else. I mean being fully present in the moment while you’re listening to music so that you can fully embrace the feeling of calmness. Different genres of music can evoke different types of emotions, but we’re all unique and music that calms me might not do the same for you. Whatever your preferred genre, close your eyes let the music wash over you and get rid of all the anxiety you might be feeling. Another way to use music to help reduce stress is by listening to it when you’re feeling overwhelmed.

While you might not be able to fully immerse yourself in the music, it’s still a good way to regain control of your emotions and blow off some steam.

10. Aromatherapy.

When I was pregnant with my firstborn, I bought him a diffuser and tried using it for a night or two. Now, it’s four years down the line and I feel I can’t sleep without having my essential oils filling the room. Whether you’re diffusing essential oils, creating your blends, or simply enjoying the aroma of scented candles, aromatherapy offers a sensory experience that calms the mind and rejuvenates the spirit. Each essential oil carries its own unique therapeutic properties allowing you to tailor your aromatherapy practice to suit your specific needs.

The benefits of different essential oils:

- Lavender: Known for its calming properties, lavender essential oil can help reduce stress, promote relaxation, and improve sleep quality.

- Peppermint: With its invigorating scent, peppermint essential oil can boost energy levels, alleviate headaches, and aid in digestion.

- Eucalyptus: Eucalyptus essential oil is commonly used for respiratory support, helping to clear congestion and promote easier breathing.

- Lemon: Lemon essential oil has a refreshing citrus scent that can uplift the mood, enhance focus, and support immune function.

- Frankincense: Known for its grounding and calming effects, frankincense essential oil can help reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and deepen meditation.

- Chamomile: Chamomile essential oil is prized for its soothing properties, making it a popular choice for calming the mind, reducing stress, and promoting restful sleep.

- Rosemary: With its invigorating scent, rosemary essential oil can improve concentration, boost cognitive function, and alleviate mental fatigue.

- Bergamot: Bergamot essential oil has a citrusy, floral aroma that can uplift the mood, reduce anxiety, and promote feelings of positivity.

- Ylang Ylang: Ylang ylang essential oil is often used in aromatherapy for its ability to reduce stress, promote relaxation, and enhance mood.

11. Stargazing.

Nothing can make your worries feel so small like looking up into the night sky and seeing how glorious it is. When you stare up towards the stars, you feel complete awe and wonder for the cosmos above you and a sense of calmness washes over you. Being able to grab a blanket and be surrounded by nature and the glimmering lights in the sky is a great way to center yourself again and get in touch with your emotions. It creates a safe space to think and observe without any judgment or distractions. If you find a passion for stargazing, take your hobby to the next level by investing in a good telescope, you won’t regret it.

Stargazing is one of my favorite relaxing hobbies I do as often as I possibly can. It’s hard to describe the feeling I get, but when I get up from the ground, I feel like a new person.

12. Taking a bubble bath.

If you’re lucky enough to have a bathtub, this should be on the top of your relaxing hobbies list. Well, a bubble bath is more of a self-care thing than a hobby, but if you put the amount of effort I do into a bubble bath, it definitely becomes a hobby! Once you sink into the warm bath filled with bubbles you can just feel the tension slipping away. You can even combine a few relaxing hobbies by grabbing a book, adding aromatherapy, meditating, or listening to music and you’ve got the biggest, baddest calming hobby ever created.

13. Coloring.

Tap into your inner child by coloring your tensions away. Full disclosure, when I buy any type of coloring book for my kids, it’s not really for them. As you focus on choosing colors and filling in shapes, your minds begin to quiet, and your worries fade into the background. Whether you’re coloring alone or with loved ones, it’s a simple way to unwind, destress, and reconnect with your inner child. I love making my children a part of my hobby and we get to make memories while I let go of all my worries for just a few moments.

14. Photography.

Being able to capture something beautiful can be just as relaxing as anything else. No matter if you’re out in nature or the heart of the city, photography allows you to be present in the moment and appreciate the world around you. Photography can be one of the most relaxing hobbies when done right and brings a greater sense of mindfulness and awareness for the beauty around you. So, next time you’re feeling tense, grab your camera and look at the world through a lens while capturing the beauty.

15. DIY.

This is probably one of the most rewarding and calming hobbies I’ve tried. This was one of those hobbies that I tried but it never really stuck, but it might just be for you. DIY isn’t just about saving money, it’s about adding a piece of yourself to every project you take on. Whether you’re refurbishing old furniture, renovating a room, or crafting handmade gifts, DIY projects offer a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment that can’t be replicated. There’s nothing quite as satisfying as looking back at your hard work and falling in love all over again.

16. Rock balancing.

I never knew that rock balancing was a hobby until I started seeing rock piles more often wherever I go. Rock balancing is so much more than just stacking random rocks on top of each other and hoping they don’t fall over. It’s about finding the perfect balance in nature and being completely focused and in tune with yourself and nature. It takes a lot of patience to find the perfect balance and build something beautiful and unwavering. I am always in awe when I pass rocks that have been balanced and have no idea how that’s even possible.

It’s important to note though that too much of a good thing can be a bad thing. A single area in nature shouldn’t have too many piles of rock towers because it can negatively impact the environment and eco system. Keep moderation in mind when making your masterpiece.

17. Yoga.

When you think about relaxation, yoga might be one of the first things that come to mind. Yoga isn’t just a form of exercise, it’s a way to center your mind and body and release all the tension within. With every movement flowing seamlessly into the next, you can focus on your breathing while stretching every part of your body and releasing any tension in the muscles. Whether we’re practicing alone at home, in a studio with others, or surrounded by nature, yoga provides a sacred space for self-reflection, healing, and rejuvenation. So, grab your yoga mat, and don’t forget to breathe.

18. Building puzzles.

Have you ever noticed how time just flies when you’re building a puzzle? You sit down for just a few minutes and before you know it, you’re finished your puzzle and looking for the next one to build. Being focused and putting together the pieces of the puzzle brings a sense of calm in your life. It’s so satisfying to see how you’ve turned complete chaos into something so perfect. Your brain can use the distraction and your soul the peace.

19. Nature walks.

Nature walks are like a double whammy; by being active your body gets in some endorphins while being in nature can help calm you and ease anxiety. By breathing in fresh air, listening to nature around you, and being present in the moment, a sense of calmness washes over you. Some people might say that walking isn’t really a hobby but I find it to be. I love going for a walk and challenging myself every time by tracking it on my smartwatch.

Conclusion.

No matter which hobbies you choose to pursue, the important thing is that you enjoy what you’re doing and feel more relaxed afterward. The list of hobbies to try is endless, so don’t let anything stop you from exploring and experimenting with new experiences. In my opinion, there’s no such thing as having too many hobbies, and if you can combine them, even better!

Happy Relaxing,

Your Wellness Warrior!

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