Five Winter Hobbies That Can Boost Your Mental Health

During the winter months, when the days get shorter and temperatures colder, many of our hobbies and pastimes go out of the window. Hobbies and pastimes that we often use to look after our mental health.

That can leave us with the winter blues somewhat, particularly in today’s climate where more people are struggling with their mental health than ever before, many having to check into a mental health clinic London wide, or in the many other major cities up and down the country. However, there are many hobbies that are well-suited to winter and can also boost your mental health.

So, if you’re short of activities to keep your brain in check, here are five ideas that could be perfect for you over the coming months.

Knitting and Crocheting

Over the last few years, there’s been a real resurgence in knitting and crocheting and it’s the ideal way to pass time during the winter. Getting nice and cosy on the sofa or in an armchair and spending some time knitting can play a huge part in reducing stress and anxiety.

That’s because the repetitive nature of both knitting and crocheting can be almost meditative, allowing your mind to enter a state of flow, which can improve mood and remove any negative thoughts from your mind. What’s more, the end result of your knitting or crocheting project can help achieve a real sense of self-worth and leave you feeling like you’ve been productive during the often sluggish winter months.

Reading

The benefits of reading on our mental health are well known, so during the winter time getting lost in a good book can work wonders. It can really transport you to another world, providing the ideal escape from the stresses of everyday life.

It’s especially useful during the winter months when the lack of sunlight can dampen spirits, so while it might be raining outside, you could be transported to a tropical landscape with the words written on the page.

Baking and Cooking

Is there anything more comforting than the smell of freshly baked bread or a pot of stew simmering while it’s freezing cold, wet and dark outside? There’s something magical about it, so why not get into a bit of baking or cooking?

There are many benefits to it, from the act of preparing food, which can be a form of mindfulness, to the cooking itself which can be a wholesome experience, particularly given that you may also be providing your body with the nutrients it needs.

But it’s that moment you pull it out of the oven and you see the fruits of your labour which gives you the real buzz, boosting mood and providing you with an almost unique sense of achievement.

Winter Hiking

While it may seem counterintuitive to head outdoors when the weather is cold, winter hiking can be incredibly beneficial for mental health. Fresh air and natural light are essential for maintaining mood and energy levels, and spending time in nature has been proven to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. The tranquillity of a snow-covered landscape can be profoundly calming, offering a break from the noise and busyness of daily life. Moreover, the physical activity involved in hiking releases endorphins, the body’s natural mood elevators. With the right clothing and gear, winter hiking can become a refreshing and invigorating hobby that keeps the winter blues at bay.

Journaling

Journaling is a powerful tool for mental health, providing a private space to express thoughts, feelings, and ideas. During the winter, when people are more prone to introspection, journaling can help process emotions and clarify thoughts. Writing about daily experiences or exploring deeper emotions can reduce stress, improve mood, and promote self-awareness. Additionally, keeping a gratitude journal, where you regularly note things you are thankful for, can shift focus away from negative thoughts and encourage a more positive outlook. Journaling is a flexible hobby that requires minimal resources, making it accessible to anyone looking to improve their mental health during the winter months.