Having a hobby tied to happiness and well-being – Harvard Health

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1. A study published in Nature Medicine suggests that having a hobby is beneficial for overall health and well-being.
2. The study involved more than 93,000 people across 16 countries, all aged 65 or older, with most having existing health conditions.
3. Engaging in hobbies such as arts and crafts, games, gardening, volunteering, or participating in clubs can improve mental health, reduce symptoms of depression, and increase life satisfaction.

According to a study published in Nature Medicine, having a hobby can be beneficial for your health and well-being. The study looked at data from over 93,000 people aged 65 or older across 16 countries, including the United States, Japan, China, and several European countries. The participants were asked about their health and well-being over a period of four to eight years. The researchers found that those who engaged in hobbies reported better health, more happiness, fewer symptoms of depression, and higher life satisfaction compared to those who did not have hobbies. This was consistent across all countries.

Hobbies have a positive impact on our mental health and well-being for several reasons. Engaging in activities such as arts and crafts, games, gardening, volunteering, or participating in clubs stimulates our creativity, engages our senses, allows for self-expression, promotes relaxation, and provides cognitive stimulation. These factors contribute to good mental health and overall well-being. Additionally, participating in hobby groups helps us stay socially connected, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Having a hobby is like having a gift that keeps on giving. Not only does it provide us with enjoyment and fulfillment, but it also has lasting benefits for our health and happiness. Whether it’s painting, playing an instrument, playing sports, cooking, or any other activity that interests you, finding a hobby that you love can have a positive impact on your life.

If you haven’t found a hobby yet, now is a great time to explore different activities and interests. Experiment with different hobbies and see what brings you joy and a sense of fulfillment. It could be something artistic, like drawing or pottery. Or perhaps you enjoy being active and would thrive in a sports team or dance class. Maybe you’re passionate about a cause and want to get involved in volunteering. The possibilities are endless.

It’s important to remember that hobbies should be enjoyable and not feel like a chore. Choose activities that you genuinely love and look forward to doing. Hobbies are meant to be a source of relaxation and enjoyment, providing a break from the stress and demands of everyday life.

In conclusion, the study suggests that having a hobby is beneficial for our health, mood, and overall well-being. Engaging in activities that bring us joy and fulfillment, such as arts and crafts, games, gardening, volunteering, or participating in clubs, can have a positive impact on our mental health. Hobbies provide opportunities for creativity, self-expression, relaxation, cognitive stimulation, and social connection, all of which contribute to our happiness and life satisfaction. So, why not explore different hobbies and find one that sparks your passion? It could be the gift that keeps on giving.


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