Hobbies Help with Holidays!

Hobby? Hobby? Hobby?

Hobbies help with Holidays!

For many people, holiday time can be especially daunting, whether it is vacation times in the summer or the long winter holidays spreading over major days like Thanksgiving or Christmas, and New Year.

So finding ways to cope with feelings of depression, or anxiety, or perhaps loneliness and alone time, as well as other mental health problems can be needed. The rest of the year we might have hobbies that carry us through but suddenly we may need that extra feeling of peace and relaxation that becomes elusive, perhaps due to being on our own or the opposite of having to spend time with others.

So, how can hobbies help us?

- They can be restful and create a relaxed atmosphere
- They can focus and clear our mind.
- They can induce good feelings.
- They can be a conversation starter and we can share with others what we enjoy.

A hobby or special interest can be something as simple as picking up a pen or pencil and some paper and doodling, sketching, or maybe writing down thoughts in a journal form. Maybe add a couple of drawing tools into your rucksack, purse, or handbag. That way you will be prepared to access your thoughts anytime anywhere and give them a simple outlet.

There are many therapeutic aspects of drawing and painting too!

Art Therapy gives structured ways of safely exploring thoughts through drawing and painting. You can simply use your drawing or coloring hobby to help soothe your anxieties and tensions. Making cards or painting pictures for others can be a source of ameliorating difficult situations.

Neurographic Art is something that can be learned and practiced and not attract attention. This can be of specific benefit to many and is simply carried out in a few steps that clear the mind and increase focus and relaxation, this site gives details of how to do this here.

Reading is an often overlooked hobby, choosing a new book or treating oneself to a new edition can be a real boost to self-esteem. Or, there are many free electronic copies of great books from Dickens to the more recent bestsellers, just use your search function to find and download before required.

Take a look at these posts that can give you more ideas on how hobbies help with holidays

12 Days of Hobby-mas - different ways to celebrate and have fun

Kintsugi - the art of making repair beautiful

Origami - just take a piece of paper

Paint a Picture with words or sketch, photo or inks

Using your creative talents perhaps create a 'Snap Cup' and ask everyone to write their own snap words and good wishes then add them to the cup for later reading, or if you are on your own write plenty of good vibes and positive affirmations and then when in need pick up a snap!

1. Can you tell us about your hobbies and how they will help you through the holidays?
2. What new hobby might you try and why did you choose this one?
3. Can you find a new way to share your hobby with others?