The Benefits of Hobbies: How They Scientifically Enhance Well-Being

People might have heard the saying “get a hobby”. Although, “get a hobby” is supposed to be an insult this article tells the reader why you should have a hobby according to science.  Evan Divis, a clinical social work/therapist promotes that hobbies can play a role in positively impacting our lives. Divis stated that hobbies are “a healthy, and productive distraction from work or personal troubles” (Evan Divis). Hobbies can help to reduce anxiety, relieve stress, decrease depression, and contribute to our overall well-being (Utah State University).  Hobbies can be anything such as painting, exercise, singing, writing, spending time with family, hanging out with friends, etc. A hobby is anything a person does in their free time that brings enjoyment and relaxation.

The University of Reading, located in the United Kingdom, stated in an article that hobbies will start a reward system effect on our brains. The reward system affects our brains by releasing neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that make us want to do the hobby we enjoy over again. There are over one hundred different neurotransmitters that are essential to our brains. These hobbies will boost our chemical transmitters serotonin, dopamine, glutamate, and acetylcholine. 

Another scientifically proven benefit of a hobby is that it can slow cognitive decline (Health). “Cognitive decline in older adults refers to the concern of or difficulty with a person’s thinking, memory, concentration, and other brain functions beyond what is typically expected due to aging” (WebMD).  Kimberly Johnson Hatchett, MD, a board-certified neurologist had experience with hobbies to improve her patients’ health. Hatchett stated that her patients had a slower process of cognitive decline after doing hand-eye coordination activities. Around 70 is when people are commonly affected by cognitive decline but it could potentially happen at any age (Health). Certain hobbies that require hand-eye coordination such as gardening, basketball, and cooking will help to exercise your cognitive function (Health). You may be able to help an older person maintain their cognitive function by engaging in hand-eye coordination activities with them. 

As great as hobbies are at helping us mentally they may also help bring in income. You might be able to make a career out of your hobby or generate more income from it. For example, Mimi Chao is a woman who has had a passion for drawing and creating ever since she was a young child. After being a lawyer at a big law firm and achieving what people told her was successful she wanted to try something that she would better enjoy. Chao decided to try and make a career from her hobby of being creative. She now runs her own studio Mimochai, making illustrated books & products, collaborates with clients, and hosts an international drawing community. She is even a top teacher on Skillshare helping others with mindful creativity and drawing. 

Another example of someone who took their hobby and made a business out of it is, Lelia Voit. January 2020 is when Voit started to make wreaths and she continued to enjoy making them when COVID-19  hit. Voit has now been making wreaths for four years in a row and continues to work on her craft. Although Christmas time is her busiest time of business, she makes wreaths all year round. Voit has now shipped her handmade wreaths to over 19 states across America. We can all help our community with our hobbies, or simply just feel the difference in ourselves when we invest time in our interests. I encourage you to ask someone what their hobbies are and share your hobbies with others as well. 

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