Eight hobbies—art, writing, running, dancing, gardening, cooking, knitting and reading—may help ease stress and anxiety. A 2016 study found a 45-minute art session lowered cortisol; 2024 research reported that five minutes of reading could reduce stress by nearly 20%.
Writing for 20 minutes a day has been found to reduce stress, and Northumbria University psychology professor Michael Smith said even two minutes can have a positive effect. A Japanese study found a slow 10-minute jog can help ease stress and anxiety. In a survey, 95% of dancers with a history of anxiety, stress or depression said dancing had therapeutic effects over their lives. Stress researchers at Utah State University said people should choose an activity they find meaningful and enjoyable.
Gardening can be done on a patio, balcony or indoors. The article cites studies in which gardeners reported higher well-being scores than non-gardeners; plant-related activities may also reduce symptoms of depression, stress and anxiety. A 2022 study of 650 people taking a seven-week cooking course found 8% more participants had improved mental-health test scores after the course.
