Feel Good Friday - Happy Hobbies!

[Amanda Barber]

Happy Feel Good Friday, Community!

Did you know that having a hobby boosts mental health, improves cognitive function, and reduces your risk of chronic disease?! Seems worthwhile spending some time doing something that ignites you - and is perhaps away from your day-to-day work!

Sooo, what are your favorite hobbies? How do you prioritize the time to spend on them? Do you notice any particular benefits when you find the time to engage in your hobbies?

Reference: https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/3-proven-health-benefits-having-hobby

[Sean Perry]

Cycling and Hiking, I was Hiking last weekend on the island of Elba, this weekend I'll be cycling outside of Rome.
Both are good for my health, both physical and mental health. 

If I don't do one or the other, then I can get a bit grumpy 😊

https://www.strava.com/athletes/129654

[Amanda Barber]

Exercise is one of my main hobbies as well, and definitely agree - it's wonderful for both physical and mental health!

[Anwesha Pan]

Oh this is one of my favorite topics! 😍 Thanks @Amanda Barber for choosing this topic for our "Feel good Friday". 

I love spending my free time creating mandalas, painting, and trying out DIY crafts. I usually set aside a little “creative time” in the evenings or on weekends, even if it’s just 30 minutes, and treat it like a non‑negotiable meeting with myself.

Whenever I make time for these hobbies, I notice I feel calmer, more present, and much less stressed. They help me reset mentally, spark new ideas, and give me a nice sense of accomplishment that carries over into the rest of my week.

Here are some photos of my hobbies

[Amanda Barber]

I'd love to get back into more mandalas and "doodling!" Such a beautiful craft/art!

[Anwesha Pan]

Yeah @Amanda Barber you should give a try again, its such a great stress buster 😍

And thank you so much!🙂

[Arkadiusz Wroblewski]

I’m into cycling and long-distance walking events. I take part in IML marches (International Walking Association). My next event is on 25–26 April in Viborg: 2 × 50 km. I also travel a lot.

[Amanda Barber]

Wow, what a cool hobby! I've done several marathons as a runner, but imagine walking long distances is a whole different experience!

[Arkadiusz Wroblewski]

I’ve done both, and I’d say long-distance walking is much more about endurance, especially during IML events. With the time limits, you know you need to complete 50 km on both days, or at least slightly less on one of them.

And honestly, it’s also a great way to meet awesome people.

[Anwesha Pan]

wow that's a great amount of coverage! 😍

[Amanda Barber]

My main hobbies lately have been reading and exercise (mostly group fitness classes focused on weight lifting.) I'd like to find more time to do some art-related hobbies soon!

[Anwesha Pan]

Do you do online group fitness class or in your local gym? and I would love to see your art-works too! 😍