One of my goals for 2024 was to give myself time to partake in “quiet” hobbies. By quiet, I don’t necessarily mean hobbies that don’t make noise — although it did end up that way!
I meant hobbies that I can do alone and don’t require me to put myself out there. Writing that makes me sound like a recluse, but when I was putting my goals together, I realized that a lot of what I do in my spare time requires me to share with others — writing on the blog, in my newsletter, recording the podcast, etc.
I love doing those things, but it takes a lot of energy, and I want to reserve some of it for myself. So, here are some quiet hobbies I’ve been doing that also relieve stress and anxiety.
Reading
It may come as no surprise that reading is good for your mental health. In 2022, a small study in Turkey revealed that reading fiction can reduce stress and anxiety because it improves problem-solving and promotes awareness of other people’s feelings.
I also read that if you’re reading a book with a character that you can relate to, it helps you feel less alone. Plus, what’s better than escaping into a good book?
Journaling
I remember keeping a diary off and on when I was in middle and high school, but I didn’t start journaling regularly until my dad passed in 2018. Journaling can help manage anxiety, reduce stress and cope with grief.
The biggest thing I’ve noticed is that journaling helps me release and process emotions, and it helps me see patterns. It’s truly helped me so much!
Coloring and Calligraphy
I have always loved to color! I don’t think I colored at all in college, but I bought a coloring book during a hurricane and have always had one since. Coloring helps relieve stress and feelings of depression and anxiety. It also promotes mindfulness.
Practicing calligraphy is beneficial in similar ways. It is a good way to connect your mind and body while staying in the moment, and you’re learning a cool skill.
Diamond Painting
I started my first diamond painting at the end of 2023 after hearing that it eased anxiety. While it took me a LONG time to choose the painting I wanted, it is a great (and colorful) project to focus on. I like working on it while I listen to podcasts or audiobooks.
Two things I really enjoy about diamond painting are that it improves my hand-eye coordination and it forces me to spend time NOT looking at a screen!
Scrapbooking
I scrapbooked in high school, but started a more formal scrapbook project during the pandemic that I’m still working on. I love getting the photos printed and sorted and then laying out all the supplies I need for the pages in my book.
Scrapbooking is a way to connect with your inner self, especially if the project involves your pictures! You get to relive memories and enjoy a temporary escape.
These are the hobbies I’m embracing this year — are there any you haven’t tried?
To see more writing from me, be sure to subscribe to The Bitter Lemon by clicking “subscribe” on the right side of your screen. Want even more? Subscribe to my newsletter to get roundups, book recs and lifestyle tips.
The Bitter Lemon 