With the ever-flowing wave that is life, it is easy to get caught up in the currents. Oftentimes, we’ll say that we don’t have enough time for hobbies, but the truth is we’re just not aware of how easy it is to take up a hobby and the benefits that can come with it. Taking on hobbies can sharpen the mind, increase physical activity and even create an avenue of passive income if you begin selling what you’re making. Here are some hobbies you can take up over winter break that will help you destress while creating something beautiful.
Embroidering
Embroidering might sound like a grandma’s hobby, but trust me when I say that embroidering is definitely a destresser, especially when listening to your favorite type of music. Not to mention, you end up with a beautiful handmade piece that you could incorporate onto a jacket, blanket or even backpack. You can even embroider your own patch if you dedicate the time to it. Embroidery is a hobby that teaches you patience, a trait that is always good to have and helpful in stressful situations.
Taking pictures of plants
One of my favorite hobbies of all time is collecting pictures of plants and flowers while out on nature walks or while just simply making my rounds. This is a great way to destress because you take a moment to notice the little things out in nature that you sometimes might miss. Taking pictures of plants and flowers also helps you to learn about the different species in your environment, and if you like the picture enough, you can frame it. PictureThis is a great app to help with this hobby as it allows you to identify different plant and flower species you’ve taken pictures of, see what species are in your area and organize the plants and flowers you’ve already collected. PictureThis even includes tips on how to take care of certain house plants, an added bonus for plant parents.
Coloring
Coloring may be something we did a lot as children, but just because we are adults now doesn’t mean we can’t be in on the fun. Coloring in a coloring book or coloring printed out sheets are great ways to relieve some stress while making a vibrant image you can frame or give to a loved one. Consider adding a coloring book and some markers or colored pencils to your backpack so that you can unwind after a heavy day of classes or work.
Bullet journaling
Bullet journaling is one of those hobbies that actually encompasses many different hobbies in one; you get to write, color, illustrate and organize all at once. Creating a bullet journal is like painting on a blank canvas — you’re the one in charge of all the details. Some ideas for bullet journaling include making your own planner, bucket list, goal list or creating a habit or finance tracker. Bullet journaling is a great hobby that helps you stay organized while still expressing some creativity. Nothing says “destress” like feeling like you have your life together.
Origami
Origami is the art of folding paper, and due to the fact it engages both your mind and your hands, you’ll feel a calming effect as you fold the paper into your desired shape or figure. Like embroidery, this is a hobby that creates patience as well as precision, but there’s nothing as satisfying as knowing you just made that crane, butterfly or heart out of a simple piece of paper.
