Hobbies often take a backseat in the hustle and bustle of daily life, whether it’s painting, gardening, cooking, or running.  And time is one of the biggest challenges, especially when life is filled with responsibilities like work, family, and other commitments.

However, hobbies are more than just pastimes—they’re vital for our mental health and overall well-being.

Is it such a big deal?

1. Emotional well-being  and stress reduction: Engaging in enjoyable activities can boost mood by releasing dopamine, the “feel-good” hormone , and it reduces cortisol levels, helping to alleviate stress.  It also gives us more opportunities in life for a sense of achievement and purpose.
2. Mental stimulation: Many hobbies, like solving puzzles or learning a new skill, stimulate the brain and improve cognitive functioning, including memory and problem-solving.
3. Social connection: Hobbies like team sports, book clubs, or anything with groups create opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals, reducing feelings of loneliness.
4. Improved physical health: Active hobbies such as hiking, dancing, or yoga not only improve fitness but also have positive effects on mental health, reducing anxiety and depression.
5. Better long-term health: Researchers analysed data from over 93,000 elderly people across 16 countries, finding that those with hobbies reported better health, more happiness, fewer symptoms of depression, and higher life satisfaction compared to those without hobbies. Engaging in hobbies can even protect your brain as you age, with studies suggesting that spending just an hour daily on hobbies can reduce the risk of dementia and lead to greater longevity.

But where’s the time?!

While there is no doubt that engaging in recreational activities is good for us, we cannot deny the challenges we face when it comes to actually pursuing a hobby. For example, some hobbies can be expensive or require access to specific tools, materials, or spaces. Or perhaps we have so many options available, we don’t know what to choose!

And then there’s the time factor. Between work, family, and daily responsibilities, finding time for hobbies can feel impossible. And even if we can find some time, many people view hobbies as unproductive and feel guilty spending time on activities that don’t contribute directly to work or household duties.

Here are some ways by which you can make time for your hobbies:

• Start small: Dedicate just 10-15 minutes a day to an activity you enjoy. And perhaps more time on weekends, or once in a while. Consistency is more important than duration. 
• Schedule it: Treat hobby time like any other important appointment. Block out time during your lunch break to practise your sketching or set aside one evening a week for singing.
• Bring your hobby into your daily life: Find a way to fit the activity seamlessly into your routine, like listening to audiobooks during commutes or doing yoga at home.
• Choose wisely: Reduce time spent on distractions (like scrolling through social media) to free up time for meaningful activities.
• Involve others: Turn hobbies into shared activities with family or friends. For example, cook a new recipe together, play board games, or join a local sports team.
• Enjoy it: You don’t have to excel at your hobby. Focus on the joy it brings rather than the outcome. For instance, try photography or doodling without worrying about professional results.
• Vary your interests: Diversify your hobbies to include a wide range of activities that cater to different aspects of your creativity, relaxation, and physical health. You can do something daily, some weekly and some quarterly or annually.