I was just perusing Pinterest the other day and a new craft caught my eye – “Diamond Painting”. My Crafter’s brain was intrigued, so I clicked on a video of it. It is basically the “Paint by Numbers” craft using plastic jewels instead of paint. Some very beautiful pictures are being created using these techniques. I remember from my childhood how much fun “paint by numbers” was and also how relaxing. I stored this new type of hobby in my brain as a possible activity to suggest to patients. For example, people who want to cut out smoking can use a hobby like this to engage in when they have a craving, instead of reaching for a cigarette.
As part of my intake and getting to know a patient, I usually ask if they have any hobbies. It may seem like an unusual thing for a doctor to be interested in, but having a hobby is a very healthy thing to do (unless the hobby is a dangerous activity, like bull riding). I am often surprised of the number of adults I encounter who cannot think of a single thing they do as a hobby. This tells me right away that they are headed for burnout.
It has long been known by researchers that activities like knitting and crocheting are excellent for lowering anxiety as well as preventing brain function decline with aging. The rhythmic, repetitive movements involved in knitting and crocheting have the same effect as meditation on the body and mind, such as lowering blood pressure. Knitting has been shown to help chronic pain sufferers. Other benefits of hobbies include providing a work-free, responsibility-free time in a person’s life, provide meaning and fun to stave off boredom, and creating social connections. Many hobbies contribute to physical well-being, such as singing to improve breathing or golfing to keep the legs strong. Having a pleasurable hobby is an easy way to stay balanced and healthy and should be considered a priority in a person’s life.
