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Hobbies and Your Health

Most people look at hobbies as things they like to do in their spare time, especially given our often busy lives. But did you know that hobbies are actually good for your health?

Let's face it, life can be very stressful. Jobs, families and social and community activities often pull us in so many directions that the only time we get to relax is when we're sleeping! And because of the stress and hustle and bustle of daily life, many of us even have trouble falling to sleep or staying asleep.

So what are some of the ways that hobbies help your overall health and well-being?

• Hobbies lower the risk for depression and dementia/Alzheimer's in seniors by keeping their brains focused and engaged in something they enjoy.
• Hobbies provide an outlet for expressing our creativity. Poetry writing, painting, wood working, sculpting and scrapbooking all tap into our creative sides - with real results - things you can see, share, give away or just enjoy.
• Hobbies provide social outlets. Some hobbies involve meeting with others - quilting, gym memberships and model train clubs are some good examples. This benefit proves especially helpful to those who live alone who need some additional social interaction.
• Hobbies provide a diversion for those suffering from physical pain. Fibromyalgia and chronic pain sufferers report that being involved in a hobby takes their mind off their pain and helps them to feel productive.
• Hobbies provide an outlet for people to participate in worthwhile community causes, such as joining a choral group that entertains the disabled, homebound or those who are living in residential facilities.
• Hobbies relieve stress and give you time for yourself, when you're not caring for children, answering to your boss or running yourself ragged. Time spent pursuing a special interest, such as painting or photography, also allows you to explore hidden talents and abilities that you'd never know you had otherwise.

A hobby doesn't have to be time-consuming or expensive. Explore something of interest and if you like it, stick with it; if you don't, try something different. But give your stress a break and give your creativity a chance to flourish. Your body and your spirit will benefit!