What Is a Hobby?
A hobby is an activity that people enjoy in their spare time. Hobbies can include collecting themed items or objects, engaging in creative and artistic pursuits, playing sports and other recreational activities. Hobbyists may also work on tinkering or making projects that require a great deal of skill and knowledge. Some hobbies produce an end product, such as woodworking, photography, jewelry making, software projects like computer programming or home music and video production, and papercraft (creating models out of card stock and paper).
Hobbies that involve physical activity help improve mental health by lowering stress levels and stimulating the brain. They can also offer a social outlet that is less restrictive than a job, and can provide a sense of accomplishment when mastered. Often, these activities can be done on one’s own or with friends and family, allowing for the opportunity to bond and have fun.
Creative hobbies, such as jigsaw puzzles, are relaxing and allow the participant to escape from reality for a while. Singing is a very rewarding hobby that can be performed alone or with others and is known to have many benefits, including cognitive, social, emotional and physical wellbeing.
For those who love to learn, reading self-improvement books or nonfiction works is an inexpensive and fulfilling hobby. Taking up yoga, which is an exercise that can be practiced in the comfort of your own home, is another at-home hobby that will benefit your physical and mental health.