As we approach reading week or spring break, it is essential to take some time off to relieve stress from academic learning and jobs you might have. It is the perfect time to resume our hobbies if we had them on pause during school. Doing so can bring a refreshing change to our daily routines. One way I do this is by spending time playing with my two cats. Being a huge fan of cats, I have an orange shorthair cat and a black ragdoll cat. My favorite hobby is taking my cats out in a pet stroller to explore new trails in the neighborhood. In this blog, I will discuss the importance of participating in your favorite hobbies whenever you have the time, while sharing insights about my cats.
1. Stress Relief
Engaging in hobbies you enjoy provides a break from the demands and pressure of daily life. It allows you to relax and improves your mental well-being. Whether it is just for a few minutes each day or an extended period of time, having a hobby offers a valuable change and pause in a monotonous routine.
To ease my stress, especially during midterm season, I find comfort in taking my two cats on a walk. I place my cats in a pet stroller with treats and a cozy blanket, and we embark on long walks around the neighborhood, while I listen to music. This not only allows me to breathe fresh air, but the music gets my mind thinking about things that are outside of my schooling and my daily routine.
2. Balance
Pursuing a hobby you love to do will make you excited and enthusiastic to do it. Setting aside specific times to indulge in your hobby will not only boost your mental well-being, but it also allows you to balance between work, academic responsibilities, and leisure.
My cats are a constant presence in my life. If I do not take them outside, they incessantly meow by the front door until I do. In a peculiar way, their meowing behavior reminds me to manage my time effectively. The cats prompt me to take a few minutes in my hectic schedule and routine to de-stress by taking a stroll of fresh air with them, all while ensuring I stay on top of my schoolwork and other responsibilities.
3. Physical Health
Whether the hobby involves a lot of movement or rarely any, the physical act of changing your daily activities contributes to improving your health. For example, if you have a passion for cooking, the simple act of walking around the kitchen to gather your ingredients serves as a form of non-strenuous exercise.
My cats remind me to exercise and stay active. During midterm season, I often find myself feeling very lazy, spending the majority of the time studying at my desk all day. The only time I get up is when I go to bed. This habit took a toll on my back, and I began developing lower back problems due to prolonged sitting. However, my cats compel me to leave my desk as they constantly meow until I take them outside. I may not always go on long walks, but I leave my desk area and go to my front yard to stretch my body and breathe in some fresh air. My cats stay nearby also enjoying the air and green grass.
4. Personal Enjoyment
At the end of the day, hobbies revolve around personal enjoyment and doing activities that bring us happiness. Hobbies should serve as a source of motivation, encouraging you to set time to pursue the hobby and perhaps improving at it.
I love discovering new trails around the neighborhood for my walks. My cats, who share my excitement for walks, help me explore new trails and experience new beautiful scenery in our city.
