We've all had those days when everything seems heavy, and the urge to hide under a blanket takes over. But did you know that a hobby can be a powerful remedy for stress and gloom?
By immersing yourself in a manual or creative activity, you can soothe your mind, find your smile again, and even transform your daily life. Whether you are a fan of nature, art, or cooking, there is a hobby that is perfect for you.
Discover 5 varied and accessible ideas that will allow you to disconnect, refocus and make room for joy in your routine. Ready to transform your evening?
1. Pastry: creating to comfort yourself
There’s nothing like the comforting smell of a cake baking in the oven to turn a tough day into a warm moment. Baking isn’t just a tasty treat; it’s also a form of therapy. It allows you to focus on precise movements, measure your ingredients carefully, and savor the fruits of your labor.
Why is baking so calming?
According to a study published in the Journal of Positive Psychology , creative activities like baking increase positive emotions and reduce stress. In other words, every decorated cupcake is a small victory for your morale!
Practical advice
Try a simple recipe, like cookies or homemade bread. You don't have to be a pastry chef to enjoy the benefits of this activity. And if you have children or a partner, it's a great opportunity to share a friendly moment.
Bonus tip
Once your creation is finished, take a nice photo and share it on your social networks. You will be surprised to see how much your loved ones will appreciate your talents and efforts!
2. Puzzles and LEGO: Getting lost in the details
If you're looking for a hobby that calms your mind while stimulating your brain, puzzles and LEGO are for you. These activities require concentration and put you in a state of "flow", that moment when time seems to stop and you are completely absorbed in what you are doing.
Why are puzzles and LEGO beneficial?
According to a study by the American Psychological Association , activities that require thinking and creativity, such as putting together a puzzle or building a LEGO piece, reduce stress and improve memory. These hobbies also help you build patience and perseverance.
A choice to suit all tastes
Whether you prefer piecing together a world map in a puzzle or building an architectural masterpiece in LEGO, there are endless options to suit your desires. LEGO even offers collections for adults, with models like bouquets of flowers or paintings inspired by famous works of art.
Practical advice
Set aside a quiet corner in your home for these activities. Set up a dedicated table or use a mobile tray to work on your creations without being disturbed. This will quickly become your relaxation sanctuary.
3. Taking care of your bonsai: a nature break at home
Growing a bonsai is more than just a hobby: it is an art that connects you to nature and invites you to slow down. With patience and care, you shape a miniature tree that becomes a symbol of serenity in your daily life.
Why is caring for a bonsai calming?
According to a study published by Frontiers in Psychology , spending time with plants, such as a bonsai tree, reduces stress, improves mood and promotes better concentration. It's a way to refocus while reconnecting with nature, even in an urban setting.
A hobby for everyone
Whether you are a beginner or an enthusiast, caring for a bonsai is accessible to everyone. With our Bonsai Box , you have everything you need to get started: seeds, tools and detailed instructions to grow your own miniature tree.
Practical advice
Make this ritual part of your daily routine. Take a few minutes each day to water, prune, or simply observe your bonsai. This quiet moment will allow you to refocus and relax after a busy day.
Bonus tip
Share the progress of your bonsai on social media or with your loved ones. You will be surprised to see how much curiosity and admiration this activity arouses!
4. Explore your creativity through drawing or painting
After a stressful day, escaping into the world of colors and shapes can be a breath of fresh air. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist, drawing and painting offer a calming way to express your emotions and refocus.
Why do drawing and painting soothe the mind?
These activities help clear your mind of negative thoughts by focusing your attention on the present moment. A study published in the Journal of Creativity in Mental Health found that artistic activities reduce stress and increase feelings of well-being, even in beginners.
No need to be an expert
One of the advantages of drawing and painting is that you don't need to have any artistic training to enjoy it. You can start with simple sketches, mandalas or watercolors. The important thing is to let your imagination run wild and not seek perfection.
Practical advice
Keep a sketchbook or canvas handy to draw or paint whenever you feel the need to unwind. You can also follow online tutorials to learn new techniques and discover your own style.
Bonus tip
Transform your artwork into decorations for your home or personalized gifts for your loved ones. Each piece created will be unique and full of emotion.
5. Move to free yourself: yoga or dance
There’s nothing like moving your body to get rid of the tensions accumulated during the day. Whether you choose yoga for its gentleness or dance for its energy, these activities have the power to transform your mood and reconnect you with your body.
Why does moving help you feel better?
When you do physical activity like yoga or dance, your body releases endorphins, the famous happy hormones. In addition to reducing stress, they improve your sleep and increase your energy. A Harvard study showed that yoga, in particular, can significantly reduce levels of cortisol, the stress hormone.
Yoga: for a peaceful mind
Yoga is a practice that combines movement, breathing, and meditation. It is ideal for calming the mind while strengthening the body. Even 10 minutes of yoga at home, with an online video, can be enough to change your state of mind.
Dance: to release your energy
If you prefer something more dynamic, dancing is perfect. Whether it’s an impromptu session in your living room with the music blasting or a group dance class, moving to the music reconnects you with your inner joy. No need to be an expert: just let yourself be carried away by the rhythm!
Practical advice
For yoga, create a quiet space with a mat and a candle. For dance, prepare a playlist of your favorite songs and let the music guide your movements.
Conclusion
After a difficult day, these hobbies are valuable allies to help you smile again and lighten your mind. Whether it's growing bonsai, diving into a pastry shop, or exploring your creativity through drawing, each activity has the power to soothe you and reconnect you with yourself.
Try one this week and find out which one works best for you. You might be surprised by the benefits a simple hobby can have on your well-being.
Share in the comments your favorite hobby or the one you would like to try! We look forward to discovering your ideas and exchanging with you about your passions.
