As in-person school has finally started, students have become even more stressed out,. To combat this, many are relying on hobbies that serve as moral boosts in their daily lives. Although many hobbies vary in time and effort, they are all significant to individuals because they serve as the only source of happiness. However, all hobbies can be divided into two categories: physical and personal interests.
When it comes to hobbies that require physical work and strenuous activity, there are multiple types. Sports is the most popular physical hobby that students participate in, especially in school. However, physical hobbies are not limited to just sports. Many have found a love for dancing by replicating popular Tik Tok moves or following K-pop dance tutorials. Simply watching videos or self-teaching these dance moves is not only a great exercise for students, but is also a great way for those interested in dance and performance art to mold this interest into a personal hobby. Others have decided to experience the outdoors. As students have been cooped up inside for the past year and a half, many are desperate to find a hobby such as fishing, kayaking, surfing, and even mountain or rock climbing. These activities, although strenuous, relieve the stress of students. These physical hobbies are mainly for those looking for a way to do activities with their body to destress and relax.
Yet, there are some students who have realized that physical activity is not for them and have decided to pick up hobbies dealing with the mind and the “crafty” side of themselves. Many of these personal interest-type hobbies deal with collections. There are young adults who destress by shopping and collecting dozens of earrings, bracelets, and other accessories. Some will collect vintage clothes and even vintage video games. Students will also collect phone cases and accessories while others will go on a shopping spree for pens of different colors and sizes. Although hobbies often surround the idea of collections, there are also those who express their personal interests in the form of crafts, writing, or music. Crafting has become extremely popular over the past decade with DIY projects sprouting up on Pinterest and Instagram. There are some students who will even write stories, essays and even song lyrics to artistically express their feelings. Others will pick up a musical instrument and learn the simple chords and notes to create these songs and, once again, show themselves through music in order to “run away” from the anxiety that school often creates.
Thanks to these hobbies, many students are able to handle the stress of coming back to school with fewer problems than before. Hence, when going through any trouble in life, do not ever be afraid to pick up a hobby, whether that be collecting your favorite flower or hiking every day for an hour.
Regina Lee, Grade 11
Saugus High School
