Hobbies And Mindfulness

Abstract

Background: Our modern society stresses the importance of productivity and improving every aspect of our lives, always pushing the limits of what is possible. It seems a disproportionate amount of importance is placed on the individual's well-being. Objective: This study aims to research mindfulness and hobbies and the benefits obtained by those who practice them in hopes of discovering if the two can be interchangeable when seeking self-help, stress reduction, and personal development. Design and Method: The research method is based on peer-reviewed literature consisting of scholarly articles, journals, dissertations, blogs, and online articles. The research performed is qualitative and includes literature from 2006 to 2021. Hobbies and Mindfulness were studied to evaluate their similarities and differences and are reported in the results section. The main research questions are: What are hobbies? What is mindfulness? Do the methods of practicing mindfulness and hobbies overlap? If so, what are the common benefits received? Can engaging in certain hobbies be considered a form of mindfulness? Results: The significance of this study is that hobbies and mindfulness can produce various benefits for the individual both physically and psychologically. Conclusions: The two are viewed differently in society, but the outcomes of both are more often than not similar enough to be interchangeable with the same outcomes for the individual. Both are initially practiced for various reasons, with the results being similar. If one is seeking the benefits of either but unable to practice a certain hobby or mindfulness, the two are interchangeable. Some hobbies are seen as a waste of time or something performed with nothing constructive or beneficial being gained. This study concludes that hobbies are indeed a form of mindfulness and produce many of the same results. Hobbies are simple, repetitive tasks that keep the body active while giving the mind the ability to be mindful of itself and time to focus on the needs and wants of the individual.

Keywords: Hobby, Mindfulness, Meditation, Stress, Self Help, Active Rest