With work and life becoming increasingly chaotic for most people, certain hobbies have been found to reduce stress and help people relax.
According to an Adobe Express survey, there are five activities you can start doing to help ease the stress of daily life.
Reading
Reading is the most common hobby that people undertake to relax and reduce stress, with 35 per cent of those surveyed using it as a form of relaxation.
In a separate survey by The Reader, 74 per cent of people said reading has a positive impact on their mental health and wellbeing.
Reading regularly is also known for improving critical thinking and creativity skills, as well as enhancing knowledge.
Psychotherapist, Kamalyn Kaur, said reading helps you take a moment to yourself and relax.
“Engaging in activities that you enjoy is a great way of escaping the day-to-day routines and responsibilities,” Ms Kaur said.
“This time to switch off can help with lowering stress levels; reduces anxiety; gives you space and time to process; and also promotes mental well-being.
“Pursuing your own hobbies is crucial for personal fulfilment by giving you the opportunity to engage in something that you are passionate about or makes you happy.”
Walking
In the Adobe research, 30 per cent of people reported walking to help them relax.
Walking is well known for its positive mental and physical health qualities,
A study conducted by the American Psychological Association found that there was a 25 per cent decrease in the risk of depression among adults who got the recommended amount of physical activity per week — about 2.5 hours of brisk walking.
However, getting more exercise than that did not lead to an improved mood.
Cooking and baking
Cooking and baking were other popular hobbies used by around 30 per cent of people to help reduce stress.
Cooking is known to stimulate the senses, and boost self-esteem.
The survey found that two-thirds of people said that baking usually improves their mood, while 61 per cent said that sharing their baking creations with others makes them happy.
Playing an instrument and solo sports
Other popular hobbies for reducing stress include playing an instrument and solo sports.
The survey found that 24 per cent of people undertook regularly played music or did some form of sports by themselves to help relax.
Ms Kaur said having your own hobbies, away from family, is also a great way of introducing balance into your life as it is dedicated and protected time for you to focus on what you want to do, prioritise yourself and think about your own emotional needs.
Journaling
Finally, journaling was a popular tool to reduce stress used by 22 per cent of people.
Journaling has also been found to be a healthy way of dealing with stress and challenges, as well as helping with problem-solving and personal growth, whilst writing and knitting are great for cognitive function and easing anxiety.
Ms Kaur said self-identity is strengthened because hobbies allow you to engage in what you enjoy; what sparks you; and what makes you feel good.
“This is important especially when so many people feel they have lost themselves and who they are in the hustle and bustle of a family life,” she said.
