In today’s fast-paced world, the demands of work and daily responsibilities often create significant levels of stress. Tight schedules, constant deadlines, financial pressures, and the struggle to balance personal and professional life can weigh heavily on individuals, leaving little time for rest or self-care. While hobbies have long been recognized as a healthy outlet to relieve stress, enhance creativity, and restore mental balance, they are sometimes overlooked or undervalued. Instead, many people turn to mobile-based activities such as scrolling through social media or gaming on their phones as an easier and more accessible form of escape. Although convenient, these digital distractions may not always provide the same long-term benefits as actively engaging in meaningful hobbies.
The website mentions the different reasons that are considered to undermine the hobbies. It stated that Many people neglect hobbies, not simply due to lack of time or resources, but because of internal narratives shaped by society and upbringing. Some avoid hobbies because they don’t seem productive, focusing only on outcomes instead of the joy of the process. Others see hobbies as self-indulgent, feeling guilty for prioritizing personal enjoyment over others’ needs. In some cases, hobbies are avoided because they are pleasurable, and certain backgrounds frame pleasure as undeserved. Challenging these narratives allows people to embrace hobbies as meaningful, healthy forms of self-expression. However, there is another side which values the hobbies and what it means to mental health development.
Relaxation Hobbies Shared by Respondents
Sarah Gimbo said that her hobby is listening to music. She noted that she developed this interest rather spontaneously, as she initially played music simply to distract herself after a busy day. She emphasized that she continues to enjoy this activity because the lyrics of many songs are relatable, which provides her with a sense of comfort and reduces feelings of loneliness.
When asked whether she had observed any long-term changes in her mood or Outlook since engaging in this hobby, she responded:
“Yes, I have, especially during moments when I feel down or alone. When I listen to music, I sing along, and it works almost like magic. I often find myself transformed into another person, a renewed version of myself. It relieves the soul, helps me regain mental concentration, and boosts my morale. Indeed, music fosters a positive nature and personality.” In addition to listening to music, she mentioned that she also enjoys reading novels as well as inspirational and self-development books.
Karthik D stated that his hobby is traveling in nature, as he considers nature to be the key to peace in life. He reported that he engages in this activity whenever he has the opportunity, since it is the most effective way for him to calm his mind.
Karthik D finds joy in travelling in Nature
When asked how this hobby assists him in reducing stress, he explained:
“While traveling, I concentrate solely on the present moment, regardless of whether I am alone, with friends, or with family. The beauty of nature enables me to remain focused and to let go of the issues that were weighing me down. Afterward, I am able to make more productive decisions in life. For me, apart from the beauty of nature, nothing else matters, because it is the best source of relief.”
Dr. Manjaiah D.H, Senior Professor and Chairman Dean, Faculty of Science and Technology of the Human Consciousness and Yogic Sciences department at Mangalore University explained that yoga, as a hobby, is mainly for concentrating on health. In his experience, he explained that by maintaining a good attitude and practicing yoga daily, his life stays in good condition, and he does not need to consult a doctor for any health issue. He mentioned that the most important practices, including chanting Om, are mainly inhaling and exhaling exercises, as well as Surya Namaskara, which he usually practices in the morning.
In the picture, Dr. Manjaiah D.H is demonstrating one the yoga Practices
He was asked if yoga as a hobby can be a long-term solution for reducing stress, anxiety, and depression in society. He responded: “Exactly, no doubt about that. It is very, very helpful for reducing our mental burden. Yoga is mainly focused on the mind, and by practicing different types of yoga and meditation, a person develops very good discipline. They do not experience persistent stress, unnecessary thinking, or a negative mindset. Instead, they cultivate courtesy, commitment, and dedication, as yoga is like a journey.” He added that yoga is well practiced between minimum of thirty minutes and maximum of one hour, and it doesn’t bring any body pain only maintaining steadiness of health, improving mental concentration.
The Study Pointed Out Relaxation Oriented Hobbies
The research conducted by uclahealth in May 2025 indicates that hobbies play a vital role in enhancing overall well-being, particularly among older adults. Research shows that people aged 65 and above who engage in hobbies experience better health, happiness, and life satisfaction, with fewer symptoms of depression and stress, especially when hobbies involve group participation. Creative activities such as art provide strong mental health benefits, especially when practiced regularly. Hobbies also support cognitive health by boosting memory and lowering the risk of dementia, with activities like fishing, gardening, handicrafts, and travel proving especially beneficial. Even individuals with mild cognitive impairment can improve memory, attention, and processing speed through stimulating hobbies such as puzzles. Beyond mental and cognitive gains, hobbies support the proper functioning of the body’s systems, reducing risks of chronic illnesses like heart disease, stroke, dementia, and cancer, while also improving cardiometabolic health by lowering stress hormones, blood pressure, and heart rate. (source: https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/3-proven-health-benefits-having-hobby)