Hobbies To Calm Your Mind

Friday, June 8, 2018
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For most people, a typical hobby consists of doing something they love. Whether it's creating something, watching or reading something, or performing or playing something, a hobby is intended to be enjoyable. But sometimes we need to put in a relaxing frame of mind. And for those times, these are some of the best hobbies you can take up.

Bullet Journalling
Bullet journalling is great, and if you've done much online reading recently, the topic might have crossed your peripheries. Bullet journalling is, very simply, a way to make some clear and organized notes for your day-to-day life, but do it on paper rather than online. Planning out your day on paper is far more beneficial than doing it online, because you are engaging with the material. There's something about putting pen to paper that is far more gratifying than typing out a list online. To get you started, have a look on bulletjournal.com and see if it doesn't become your favorite way to make lists!

Play An Instrument
I've always wanted to learn to play an instrument, but as an adult it seems daunting. Playing an instrument is something that is instantly relaxing, but if you are looking for a specific instrument to play, the ukulele has got such a kitsch quality, as we've seen people like Zooey Deschanel make the most of, but also, even Amanda Palmer released an EP of Radiohead covers on ukulele, which really has to be heard! If the idea of the ukulele is piquing your interest, but you have no discernible musical talent, don't worry, www.musicianauthority.com will give you the basic building blocks of playing pretty much any song. The ukulele isn't a difficult instrument to learn to play! There are only four strings, the chord shapes are really simple for dainty fingers, and it sounds lovely. I think I'll give it a try!

Practice Meditation and/or Yoga
I've been practicing yoga for years as a way to both de-stress and to exercise. It's been beneficial in helping to calm and center me as well as lower my blood pressure. Recently, I've started meditating. Although I've gone with friends to a few meditation classes, I'd much prefer to do it at home alone. It's more effective for me that way, but you may find your experience to be different.

Playing With Polymer Clay
I know. I know. This one's coming out of left field, but hear me out. Polymer clay is like playdough. You can create so many different things with it, and working with your hands can be so relaxing and therapeutic. Think about kneading dough or making pottery. Using your hands is fun! Plus, you can make a lot of cool stuff with clay. From jewelry, to keychains, there are so many options. And you never know, you might be able to make some money out of it. Sites like Etsy allow you to showcase your designs and make some extra cash for doing something that is creatively satisfying in your spare time.

Of course, we all need some sort of relaxing hobby that allows us to unwind and recharge. We all have unique tastes, whether it's music, art, film, or something else, but the goal is to calm down and get into a zone while you are enjoying your hobby. If all else fails, try doing a jigsaw puzzle. They become totally engrossing and you tend to forget about the world around you because you are so focused on the puzzle. 

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