16 Stress-Relieving Hobbies You Should Try Now

Published on: October 20, 2021
Updated on: September 1, 2025
Author: Kentucky Counseling Center

Stress can creep into our daily routines in countless ways—from work deadlines to family responsibilities—which is why having a hobby that helps relieve stress is more important than ever. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), chronic stress can lead to a range of physical and mental health issues, making it essential to find effective ways to unwind. Hobbies aren’t just weekend indulgences; they can be powerful tools in your everyday self-care arsenal. Creative activities like painting or photography, especially when you turn your favorite pieces into Canvas Prints, not only calm the mind but also leave you with something beautiful to display at home.

Below, we’ll explore 15 stress-relieving hobbies you can try right now, along with tips on how to select the best hobby for you and why these activities can be so effective at calming the mind.

Why Stress-Relieving Hobbies Are Important

The Role of Relaxation in Daily Life

When life gets hectic, it’s easy to overlook simple ways to unwind each day. While weekends offer opportunities to relax and recharge, stress doesn’t wait until Saturday or Sunday. Incorporating small pockets of relaxation into your daily routine—especially through hobbies—can positively impact your physical and mental health.

Eustress vs. Distress

Hobbies don’t necessarily remove stress from your life. Instead, they can shift you from a state of distress to one of eustress (positive stress). This form of stress can motivate you, foster creativity, and improve your overall well-being.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), engaging in activities you enjoy can help manage stress levels and reduce the risks associated with chronic stress, such as cardiovascular or metabolic problems.

How to Choose a Stress-Relieving Hobby

Picking the right stress-relieving hobby can be a game-changer for your mental health. Consider these guidelines to help you decide:

1. Fulfillment Through Creativity
   
   • If you love making things, find a hobby that yields a tangible end product. Activities like knitting or gardening can provide a sense of accomplishment.
2. Brain Engagement
   
   • Your mind might be tired from work, but engaging it differently can be relaxing. Light reading, crossword puzzles, or scientifically designed brain games help your mind focus on something other than work.
3. Contrast With Your Day Job
   
   • If your job is highly analytical (e.g., a physician or engineer), choose a hobby that lets you use different skills—like cooking, knitting, or painting.
4. Solo vs. Group Activities
   
   • If you’re self-motivated, consider individual hobbies like painting or DIY projects. If you thrive in social settings, opt for group classes or clubs.
5. Indoor or Outdoor
   
   • If you work from home, an outdoor hobby might help you get fresh air. Office-based professionals might prefer an at-home hobby to decompress after commuting.

By reflecting on what setting you prefer and what type of activity engages or relaxes your mind, you can choose a hobby that effectively reduces stress.

16 Stress-Relieving Hobbies

Below are 15 hobbies that can help you unwind and maintain a balanced lifestyle. While watching TV or browsing online can be quick fixes, investing time in healthier, more purposeful activities can offer long-term stress relief.

1. Playing Musical Instruments or Singing

• Why It Helps: Music soothes the mind, alleviates anxiety, and provides a creative outlet.
• How to Start: Visit a local music store or thrift shop to find affordable instruments. If you prefer singing, play your favorite tunes and belt them out. The release of endorphins from singing can improve your mood.

2. Journal Writing

• Why It Helps: Writing is therapeutic—it helps you process worries, emotions, and daily thoughts.
• How to Start: Purchase a journal or notebook. Some come with prompts to guide your writing. Set aside a few minutes each day to jot down whatever is on your mind.

3. Gardening

• Why It Helps: Connecting with nature can be immensely calming, lowering cortisol levels.
• How to Start: Plant low-maintenance flowers or veggies. If outdoor space is limited, use indoor pots or small garden beds.

4. Creating Personalized Home Decor

• Why It Helps: Designing and decorating your space can be surprisingly therapeutic. Surrounding yourself with meaningful, beautiful visuals helps reduce stress and makes your environment feel more like a sanctuary.
• How to Start: Turn your favorite travel photos, family portraits, or nature shots into stunning canvas prints with Canva. The creative process of choosing designs and arranging them in your home can be a mindful, calming activity—and seeing them daily can lift your mood.

5. Playing With Puzzles

• Why It Helps: Puzzles engage your brain without the pressure of work tasks, offering a form of “active rest.”
• How to Start: Choose a puzzle design that interests you. Larger puzzles can be framed once completed, doubling as décor.
• Many people also enjoy digital puzzles that can be played anytime, anywhere. Options like Sudoku help strengthen logic and problem-solving skills, while others such as Wordle encourage creativity with words. Online puzzles are convenient, quick to access, and perfect for a short mental reset during the day.

6. Drawing and Coloring

• Why It Helps: Artistic expression allows you to channel stress into creativity. Many people find that coloring can reduce stress and anxiety, providing a simple, mindful way to calm the nervous system.
• How to Start: Try adult coloring books with intricate designs. These activities are often recommended in art therapy to reduce anxiety and boost mindfulness.

7. Knitting

• Why It Helps: The repetitive motion can be meditative, soothing nerves and reducing stress levels.
• How to Start: If you’re new, grab a knitting starter kit. Online videos offer tutorials on basic stitches and patterns.

8. Leisure Reading

• Why It Helps: Reading transports you to different worlds, offering a mental break from day-to-day worries.
• How to Start: Opt for genres you enjoy—fantasy, mystery, or self-help. Create a cozy reading nook at home.

9. Dancing

• Why It Helps: It’s not just fun; dancing is a good form of exercise that releases endorphins.
• How to Start: Turn on your favorite playlist and move freely. You can also join local dance classes if you enjoy a social atmosphere.

10. Running

• Why It Helps: Running releases endorphins, commonly referred to as the “runner’s high.” Fresh air and a change of scenery work wonders for stress.
• How to Start: Begin with a brisk walk. Gradually increase your pace or distance as you grow more comfortable.

11. Sports

• Why It Helps: Engaging in sports like basketball, tennis, or swimming distracts you from worries and boosts physical fitness.
• How to Start: Invite friends for a pick-up game or practice on your own. Join local sports leagues or community centers if you prefer organized play.

12. Cooking or Baking

• Why It Helps: The aroma of fresh, homemade food can be deeply comforting.
• How to Start: Experiment with new recipes.
• Enhance the Experience:
  To make your kitchen an even more inviting and inspiring space, consider decorating it with Dining Room Wall Art Canvas Prints and canvas. These can add a personal touch and create a warm, aesthetic environment that complements your culinary activities.
• Sports is not only good for your mental health, but physical as well. If you sweat a lot during exercise, make sure you get a sufficient amount of minerals. We recommend taking a high-quality magnesium supplement.

13. Gaming

• Why It Helps: Video games or board games transport you to a different reality, offering temporary escape from stress.
• How to Start: Choose games that interest you—puzzle games, role-playing games, or online cooperative titles. Just remember to set time limits to avoid overindulgence.

14. Photography

• Why It Helps: Capturing moments encourages you to appreciate the world around you.
• How to Start: Use a smartphone or a basic camera. Print your favorites to create a tangible collection.
• Sharing Your Hobby:
  • With social media’s growing popularity, sharing quality photos can be fun.
  • If you want to grow a following, tools like the Instagram bot InstaLifter can automate interactions and help you connect with potential viewers.

15. Volunteering

• Why It Helps: Helping others offers a sense of purpose and makes your own problems feel more manageable.
• How to Start: Look for local non-profit organizations or community groups. Many rely on volunteers for everyday operations, and your involvement will be greatly appreciated.

16. Playing Card Games

One of the best ways to relieve stress after a long day is by playing card games. Card games can be both engaging and relaxing, offering a perfect blend of mental stimulation and fun.

Solitaire: Solitaire is a classic card game that you can play alone, making it ideal for those moments when you need some quiet time. The objective is to organize a shuffled deck into four ordered piles based on suit, from Ace to King. Playing Solitaire helps improve concentration and problem-solving skills.

Spades: For those who enjoy social interactions and teamwork, Spades is an excellent choice. This trick-taking game is typically played by four people in two teams. The goal is to accurately bid and win the number of tricks you predict. Spades combines strategy, communication, and a bit of luck, making it a dynamic and enjoyable game to play with friends. You can easily connect with others and enjoy this game by playing Spades online.

Incorporating card games into your routine can be a fun and effective way to reduce stress, improve cognitive functions, and enjoy quality time alone or with others.

Final Words

You can never entirely escape life’s stressors, but you can manage them more effectively by finding healthy outlets for tension. Hobbies provide a productive way to rest, offering new or interesting activities that enrich your life rather than simply filling time.

If stress continues to overwhelm you, consider talking with a mental health professional. The therapists at Kentucky Counseling Center (KCC) can tailor a stress management plan that incorporates the hobbies and activities best suited for your individual needs and circumstances. By combining professional guidance with hobbies that spark joy, you can make meaningful strides in maintaining a balanced and fulfilling life.