Finding a right hobby can help you reconnect your mind, body and spirit and provide a break from the stress of daily life. Whether you enjoy painting, gardening, playing sports or just spending time with family and friends, hobbies can have positive effects on your mental health. But sometimes, it’s difficult to find the right pastime. If you’re struggling to find a hobby that fits your personality, it can be helpful to speak with a therapist. More info

The first step in finding a new hobby is to think about what you want from it, says therapist Terri Trespicio. Do you want a way to relax, achieve a sense of accomplishment or learn something new? You might also want a creative outlet or something to occupy your mind, such as jigsaw-puzzling or reading. It’s a good idea to remember your favorite hobbies as a child, like drawing pictures or playing tag with friends.

From Boredom to Bliss: Steps to Discovering a Fulfilling Hobby

Next, think about your schedule and decide how much time you can devote to a hobby each week or month. If you’re worried about finding the time, try setting aside small chunks of time throughout the day to begin with and slowly increasing that amount of time.

Price can be a big factor in choosing a hobby. Some hobbies, such as learning a foreign language or reading 19th century Russian literature, require expensive equipment that you might not have the money to buy. However, there are also free e-books and other resources available for many hobbies, and you can often find group or community activities that cost little or nothing to participate in.