Top 10 hobbies for a slow living lifestyle
Engaging in intentional hobbies like sewing and gardening epitomizes the slow living philosophy. The slow living lifestyle beautifully complements hobbies that encourage mindfulness, such as artistic pursuits like crafts, designing, baking, or music.
Immersing ourselves in these activities demands keen attention to detail, drawing us into the present moment. Instead of hurrying to finish the task, we can relish the process and experience true enjoyment.
Here are some hobbies to explore in this regard…
01. Thrifting
Thrifting embraces a deliberate and mindful perspective towards fashion and shopping, encouraging us to adopt a more responsible approach. Engaging in second-hand shopping becomes an excellent hobby that not only stimulates the mind but also aligns with ethical values, owing to its eco-friendly advantages.
Embrace the experience by seeking out local markets or vintage shops, dedicating time to thoroughly explore their offerings in pursuit of that perfect discovery. Initiating a collection adds purpose to your shopping endeavors while preventing the accumulation of unnecessary knick-knacks.
02. Gardening
Gardening, as a deliberate and mindful pastime, fosters a profound connection with nature and the environment. Engaging in this activity offers numerous advantages, such as lower stress levels, improved mental well-being, enhanced self-sufficiency, and greater control over the food we consume and its growth process.
The therapeutic benefits of spending time amidst nature are widely acknowledged, and the gratification of witnessing the literal fruits of one’s labor, which can be savored and enjoyed, makes gardening an especially fulfilling slow living hobby.
03. Knitting
Knitting is widely acknowledged for its meditative and soothing nature, offering people a firsthand experience of how it can provide a tranquil respite amid the chaos of daily life. The rhythmic motion of the needles and the gentle touch of yarn work like magic, transporting us to a serene and mindful state.
Partaking in knitting, especially in a group setting, goes beyond simply acquiring a skill. It serves as a refreshing witness to the profound impact it has on mental well-being, fostering a sense of achievement and encouraging a slower, more purposeful way of living.
04. Reading
Reading, be it non-fiction or fiction, offers a welcome respite from screens and an escape from the daily stresses we encounter. Embracing slow living doesn’t mean wasting time by moving slowly; instead, it allows us to invest time in activities that hold the utmost significance to us.
A slower and deliberate approach to life frequently leads to a sense of contentment, reduced anxiety, and a feeling of being less overwhelmed. Moreover, it can contribute to alleviating physical manifestations of stress, like restlessness and tension, providing a more serene and relaxed state of being.
05. Indoor gardening
Crafting a living wall breathes new life into any room, catering to nature enthusiasts who lack access to a traditional garden or green area. As you assemble and care for this botanical wonder, you’ll find yourself fully immersed in the present moment.
Take pleasure in the routine of watering each plant at regular intervals, carefully pruning away dead leaves, nourishing the plants with feed, and repotting as needed. A flourishing living wall not only brings a sense of accomplishment and delight but also works wonders in banishing feelings of stress.
06. Cooking
Exploring new skills in the kitchen is a delightful and relaxing way to spend time, allowing you to savor the literal fruits of your efforts. Engaging in slow living hobbies like baking, cooking, and mixology offers the added joy of sharing with loved ones. Remember, the aim is not to attain perfection but to embrace creativity, relish the ritual, and find solace from the pressures of daily life.
07. Sewing and crafting
Amidst the fast-paced and ever-expanding digital world, homeowners are seeking solace in mindful slow living activities such as sewing and crafting.
During the first three months of this year, searches for ‘sewing room’ increased by over 2.5 times compared to the same period last year. Additionally, ‘workshop’ and ‘craft room’ experienced a significant surge in searches.
For those interested in embracing craft-led slow living hobbies, there are various options to explore, including coloring, soap making, candle making, scrapbooking, and origami. These activities offer a peaceful and deliberate escape from the hectic pace of modern life.
08. Birdwatching
The mental health advantages of birdwatching are profound. Care UK suggests that bird spotting can serve as a meditative practice, allowing individuals to find solace in a peaceful environment free from distractions. For those living with dementia, the act of listening to birdsong has proven to be effective in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression.
Birdwatching encompasses a meditative essence commonly found in slow living hobbies. While there are no guarantees of spotting a specific bird, there’s always something fascinating to observe, whether it’s a bird, a beetle, or a delicate spread of bluebells.
Furthermore, birdwatching, along with its mood-enhancing and well-being benefits, is accessible and enjoyable for people of all ages.
09. Walking
Strolling amidst woodlands or forests possesses the remarkable ability to elevate our spirits and alter our outlook. Walking, as an evident slow living hobby, offers numerous advantages.
Beyond its contribution to our physical fitness, being outdoors in nature proves to be highly beneficial in reducing stress levels, calming the heart rate and blood pressure, and inducing a sense of relaxation, grounding, and confidence. Additionally, spending time in nature strengthens our immune system, enhances our mood, and diminishes feelings of isolation.
10. Painting
Lastly, there has never been a more opportune moment to pick up the paintbrush. Engaging in painting demands concentration, but it brings immense pleasure, making it an ideal slow living hobby. The inherent focus it demands cultivates a state of mindfulness, quieting the mental chatter and bestowing a serene sensation, liberating the mind from stress and anxiety. Furthermore, painting serves as a creative outlet, enabling you to express yourself, your thoughts, and your emotions freely.
