Without a doubt, today’s modern lifestyle is stressful and this can sometimes overwhelm us. Normal everyday activities like grocery shopping or traffic jams can make us tense. Many of us are finding it hard to unplug from digital devices and streaming services in a 24/7 world. Work deadlines, handling the kids or dealing with a difficult relationship can all get us down.

Although it’s normal to feel overwhelmed sometimes, it’s also important to find ways to relax. Too much stress, over time, can really impact your body and lead to serious chronic conditions such as anxiety and depression. The following are great activities you can try to take a short mental break and get your mind away from stressors.

Sketching

Hobbies are a terrific way to unwind and relax after a long stressful day. They may take your mind off whatever is bothering you and are a terrific way to relax and enjoy yourself. Sketching is an excellent hobby that can be done at any time.

It allows you to sit back and draw at your own speed. There are no restrictions and no one instructing you what to do; simply draw anything you want and have fun doing it.

What do I need to begin sketching, you may ask? Well, it’s simple because as a beginner you need to buy a sketchpad along with graphite pencils and erasers. That’s it. Although you can opt for the cheaper designs, it’s worthwhile to shop around for the greatest value.

Graphite pencils are classified as hard (H) or soft (B). The hardest is 9H, while the softest is 9B. Each pencil grade produces exactly one tone of darkness, and no amount of pressure will make that tone darker. Start with a 2B or 3B pencil and go to a softer or blacker pencil, such as a 6B or 9B, for deeper tones.

To practice informal drawing, you may acquire a good sketch book for a reasonable price. Many artists have a number of sketch books with varying paper types, sizes, and pricing points to suit the different projects they might be engaged in. Good thick paper feels lovely and is expensive, but it may not be necessary for a casual inspiring drawing or note jotting.

When shopping for sketch books make sure you choose one with acid-free paper and a sturdy binding. This way, you’ll be able to look through your old sketch drawings. It’s exciting to keep track of your growth as an artist, and it can be motivating to practice more. If properly preserved, a decent sketch book will keep your artwork looking good as new for years.

Knitting

The relaxing and repeated movements of weaving the yarn between the knitting needles assist to soothe both body and mind. As the knitting becomes the major focus, the mind and body are brought to focus on the present moment, similar to breathing exercises and mindful meditation, which also employ repetition for soothing benefits.

Knitting has the power to ease individuals into a state of mindfulness without them even realizing it, allowing them to experience the practice in a new manner and make the most of the instrument. The motions are also akin to a yoga flow, resulting in a pattern that generates a sense of steadiness and inner peace.

If you prefer a more extrovert style of activity, hobbies such as knitting, crocheting, and loom-knitting are often done in groups, so you can enjoy them with friends and family, or new people during instructional classes. These are great hobbies that can combat feelings of loneliness and isolation which can otherwise contribute to other problems related to mental health and well-being.

It might be tempting to go crazy at the knitting store when you first start out as a knitter. There are so many interesting, fancy yarns and lovely straight knitting needles just ready to be purchased. But when you’re just a beginner, it makes sense to acquire only a few supplies.

The good news is that you don’t need a lot of pricey straight knitting needles or exotic yarns to get into the hobby. In fact, you could probably get everything you need at a budget store and skip the craft store or yarn shop entirely (though you will find higher-quality items at either of these). To get started you’ll need some yarn, needles, a pair of scissors, a sewing needle, and a crochet hook.

Solving Puzzles

In our hyper-connected society, where our attention is constantly demanded, focusing on a single activity, such as completing a puzzle, might induce a meditative state. It provides a sensation of calm and quiet. Furthermore, the brain enjoys identifying patterns, so puzzles feed that drive, improving our mood.

Working on a puzzle helps to divert your attention away from other concerns. If your mind is racing with anxious and bothersome ideas, a puzzle will rapidly help you calm down, allowing you to focus all of your attention and concentration just on solving the solution. You’ll quickly become engrossed in the jigsaw puzzle, and you’ll feel happier and more at ease.

I recommend starting with a 500-piece jigsaw puzzle, which is difficult enough to begin with. I know there are many more patterns in the 1000 piece area, but for a novice, 1000 pieces may be quite daunting and scary. Setting your objectives too high from the start increases your chances of becoming disappointed and giving up on this fantastic activity.