When was the last time you did something you really enjoyed or that made you laugh?
It’s easy to become so sad or worried about our problems that we lose sight of life’s simple pleasures. Taking the time to do something you enjoy can keep your mind off your worries. Completing a favorite hobby can also help you feel good about yourself.
“Laughter is the best medicine” is an age-old saying. A “good laugh” helps relax our bodies and indirectly boosts endorphins, a chemical in the brain that acts like a natural painkiller. And let’s be honest…you just can’t be sad when you’re laughing!
"Laughter is the Best Medicine"
Make a list of the things that you enjoy doing and that can help keep you from feeling blue. Take it slow by doing one fun thing a day.
Here’s a list to help you get started:
Find or Re-discover a Hobby
- Crafts: crocheting, scrap booking, woodworking
- Cooking or grilling
- Drawing or painting
- Fantasy sports
- Gardening: indoor plants, flowerbeds, container gardens
Enjoy Nature and the Outdoors
- Explore a local park
- Go for a bike ride
- Play outside: shoot some hoops, toss a Frisbee, play badminton
- Feed and watch the birds in your yard
- Go fishing
Plan an Outing
- Visit a museum
- Go bowling
- Take a factory tour
- Meet a friend for lunch
- Go to the movies
Just for Fun!
- Play a card game: Solitaire, Gin Rummy, Bridge
- Play a game of checkers, dominoes or your favorite board game
- Play with a pet
- Put together a puzzle or work on a word puzzle
- Turn on the music and dance
Resources:
Websites:
Ideas for hobbies:
www.freeintenyears.com/frugal-tips/100-cheap-hobbies
