It is safe to say the cost of living is skyrocketing. From outrageous rent, mortgages, gas price fluctuations, and even that steep hike in your beloved cup of coffee, everyday living expenses nowadays have a hefty price.
Is there anything of value that is still free? Let´s explore valuable hobbies that do not cost a dime.
What Are Hobbies?
Hobbies are enjoyable activities that you choose to engage in and give you immense joy. Hobbies give you a pleasurable break from life´s fast and relentless pace.
Engaging in hobbies is an excellent way to de-stress, unwind, recharge, and take a much-needed mini break from your hectic -day-to-day activities.
Are Hobbies Important?
Several NIH studies show a link between better psychological and physiological health and hobby participation. People who engage in hobbies increase their lifespans and improve their overall wellness significantly.
The Dramatic Health Benefits of Hobbies
The health benefits of hobbies are astounding. Hobbies may help,
- lower blood pressure,
- lower cortisol levels (stress),
- reduce depression,
- improve mental, physical, and overall health,
- encourage positive emotions,
- and may increase your life satisfaction.
Breaking The Myth-Why Free Hobbies Aren´t Inferior
Have you ever heard the best things in life are free? Don´t believe it? How about a loving embrace, a warm and encouraging smile, and heart-felt laughter, to name a few? Free hobbies are no exceptions. No-cost hobbies have many benefits;
- wallet-friendly (free)
- adds no financial strains,
- may help you develop valuable new skills,
- help declutter your mind,
- boost your mood,
- increase your concentration,
- may elevate your mental health,
- may enrich your life and so much more.
The Art of Reading
Reading is one of the oldest hobbies around. Books are all around us.
A good book can demand your attention, keep you engrossed, and take you on a wild, adventurous ride, all while on your couch, in bed, and without the use of a passport.
The good news is you can get many books for free, especially eBooks. The library is still a reliable place to satisfy your reading sensation. You can place books in high demand on hold or find rare but exquisite must-read treasures.
The Astonishing Benefits of Reading
Reading may;
- help fortify the brain, stimulate the mind,
- enrich your vocabulary,
- may help decrease cognitive decline,
- may help eliminate stress,
- can facilitate sleep,
- ignite your imagination,
- and increase creativity.
Unleash Your Creative Genius with Sketching/Drawing
I don´t know about you, but sometimes, when I start doodling on a piece of paper absentmindedly, within a few minutes, out of nothing comes a remarkable sketch.
I surprise myself sometimes, as do many of you. There are many ways to learn or improve your drawing/sketching skills.
Several learning and social media platforms like YouTube have several free tutorials to help you along your journey no matter what stage you are in right now. From beginners to more advanced, there is something for everyone.
And believe me when I say some of the tutorials are very interesting and valuable.
Benefits of Sketching/Drawing
Engaging in drawing/sketching may help;
- give you relief from anxiety,
- offer relaxation and calm,
- may offer a sense of control,
- can be a positive distraction for children and adults alike,
- and may help improve your mood.
- If you´d like to improve your skills in this department, practice makes better.
The Wonder of Nature Walks and Hiking
There´s something about nature that sucks us in, captivates and mesmerizes, soothes, and forces us to live in the present moment. Nature certainly has many positive effects on us.
The Benefits of Nature Walks and Hikes
Physical activities in nature can keep you fit and have many other benefits, such as;
- release stress,
- may reduce anxiety,
- may increase concentration,
- may elevate mood,
- may heighten self-esteem,
- may lower the risk of chronic diseases,
- reduce heart disease, hypertension, cancer,
- improves blood pressure,
- help define and tone your body,
- and may help facilitate sleep.
The Powerful Effects of Volunteering
Volunteering is an excellent way to give back to the community. Serving others who are less fortunate than you can enrich lives, theirs and yours. Volunteering can be a most rewarding activity.
Some benefits of volunteering include:
- may enrich/cultivate a support system/network,
- increase empathy,
- allow you to empower and encourage others,
- may increase your level of joy and happiness,
- may help you achieve a deeper understanding of your community and life.
Meditation: A Journey Into Your Soul
This ancient mind-body phenomenon is an excellent stress management tool. Meditation forces you to take a break and guide your mind, thoughts, and emotions with imagery, positive affirmations, and specific direction and appreciation for the present moment.
Other benefits of meditation include;
- calms mind, body, emotions,
- may increase focus and concentration,
- allows engagement in the present moment,
- may help control impulses,
- help reduce stress,
- and repeated use may help improve quality of life.
Journaling-Going Deeper, A Gateway of Self-Reflection
Are you someone who loves to dive deeper into your emotions and behaviors? Perhaps journaling is right up your alley. Journaling is a minimalistic hobby because you do not require much to start except 15 minutes, a quiet place, and something to write or record with (pen, paper, cell phone, tablet, etc).
Benefits of journaling include;
- reduces anxiety,
- may help depression and PTSD sufferers,
- deepens enlightenment,
- allows reflection on emotions, behaviors,
- may help you identify triggers and dangerous behavior patterns,
- may lower blood pressure,
- and elevate self-care regimen.
Fitness and Home Workouts Advantages
Some people are introverts or homebound. Other people do not feel comfortable sweating around strangers. There are many free fitness workouts on social media, ranging from wall Pilates to more advanced weight lifting. Surely, you`ll have so many choices to pick from.
Benefits of fitness and home workouts include,
- offers flexibility (work out whenever you want),
- perfect for busy on-the-go individuals,
- allows nursing moms to work out within reach of their babies,
- help with weight loss,
- help maintain body weight,
- may help tone and define the body,
- and may improve sleep quality.
Writing-Entering The Land of Possibilities
Do you enjoy writing short stories, poems, or research papers? Writing engages your mind and skyrockets your imagination and creativity.
Writing is a minimalistic hobby. You only require something to write with (pen, paper, cell phone, etc) or record your thoughts.
Other benefits of writing include:
- increases cognitive development,
- boosts creativity,
- expand your knowledge (research paper)
- and may enhance your perspective.
Blogging-Initiating a Social Support System
I don`t know about you, but I enjoy a good blog. If you ask many bloggers why they started blogging, don´t be surprised if reasons such as venting or encouragement come to mind.
Surprising benefits of blogging are:
- provides a platform to rant and rave, or give your 2 cents,
- can be therapeutic,
- maybe ideal for stress release,
- may help with problem-solving skills,
- opportunity to rethink/fine-tune your opinions,
- gage your emotions,
- and give empathy and support.
Cooking-Smells, Tastes, and Flavors to Awaken Your Senses
Cooking can be therapeutic for some people. There is a deep appreciation for fresh homemade meals on the fly. Certain smells can have a positive impact on you. Making quick, delicious meals from leftovers in your fridge is divine.
The Benefits of Cooking;
- may increase creativity,
- make delicious meals from leftovers,
- increase homemade meals as opposed to unhealthy processed meals,
- save money, vs ordering meals,
- and allow you to choose higher-quality foods.
Here is a simple (and one of my favorite) recipe, you can make with leftover rice and vegetables.
Golden Rice Ball Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 1 garlic clove chopped (optional)
- 4oz chopped vegetables (carrots, broccoli, zucchini, green beans, etc)
- ½ cup milk
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- ½ cup bread crumbs
- Cilantro, parsley, rosemary, thyme to garnish
- salt and pepper to taste
Directions
1. Add olive oil in a large skillet on medium to low heat.
2. Gently saute the chopped onion and garlic.
3. Add leftover vegetables for 1-2 minutes.
4. Put in 2 tablespoons flour.
5. Gently add milk gradually and stir contents continually with a wooden spoon.
6. Remove mixture from heat and let cool for 20-30 minutes.
7. Stir in rice and mix thoroughly.
8. Lightly grease the baking sheet with olive oil.
9. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
10. Take three small to medium bowls.
11. Place flour in one bowl.
12. In another bowl, whisk the egg.
13. In the last bowl, add bread crumbs.
14. Form balls with the mixture.
15. Take one ball and place it in the flour bowl.
16. Then, put it in the egg batter.
17. Coat the egg-battered ball in the bread crumbs bowl.
18. Place on the baking tray.
19. Repeat until you´ve finished all the balls.
20. Put in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Enjoy!
The Art of Dancing Like No One`s Watching
Dancing has a profound effect on us. You can see this through babies who dance without a care in the world. Though some people claim they have two left feet, everyone can dance like no one is watching in the comfort and privacy of their homes.
Benefits of dancing include;
- can be therapeutic,
- may regulate weight,
- elevates your mood,
- improves cognition,
- improves balance,
- and may bring joy and satisfaction.
Conclusion
Engaging in passionate hobbies is ideal for reducing stress. Studies show many positive effects of participating in pleasurable hobbies, such as improved physical and mental health.
It is possible to engage in free hobbies even in times such as these, with crazy inflation rates and high costs of living. Hobbies such as volunteering, writing, journaling, blogging, cooking, dancing, meditation, fitness and home workouts, reading, sketching/drawing, or taking nature walks or hiking are just some examples of hobbies that do not cost a thing.
Life is short. If you want to live a rich, fulfilling, and quality life, hobbies can be impactful.
FAQ
1) What are some hobbies I can pursue from home?
Answer: There are many hobbies you can do from the comfort of your couch, such as reading, listening to podcasts, knitting, and more.
2) How can I choose a hobby that suits me?
Answer: You can choose a hobby based on your interests, skills, and preferences. Feel free to experiment with different activities to see what brings you joy and fulfillment.
3) Can I learn a new skill or hobby online?
Answer: Absolutely! We are in the Information Age, and the Internet offers many hobby options. From learning a new language to acquiring photography skills, the sky is the limit. Several online platforms offer free courses and tutorials.
4) What are some relaxing hobbies I can do on my couch?
Answer: Relaxing hobbies like meditation, reading, knitting, or drawing/sketching are some examples of enjoyable couch hobbies.
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