Creating for creation’s sake

The resurgence of hobbies as the antidote to doomscrolling

In a culture hyper-fixated on productivity in the name of progress, it can be hard to find the time to wind down, and invest in ourselves. Especially with the ever-increasing influx of media algorithmically presented to us, we may find ourselves caught in a cycle of work, scroll, and repeat. Investing in ourselves, in this context, refers to creating space in our lives for art, for play, for movement, all without feeling the need to monetize this time. Carving out the space to participate in hobbies and learn new skills can have enumerable mental and physical health benefits, and can even help to combat against doomscrolling. Defined by WebMD as “When you binge on news or social media content about troubling things — like a tragedy, crisis, or disaster […] Doomscrolling can send your mind racing and lead to burnout. It can also make you feel uncertain, anxious, or distressed. And those feelings can steal your sleep, appetite, motivation, or desire to do things you usually enjoy.” 

Michael Ahmadvand – Argosy Photographer

 ‘Hobbies’ acts as an umbrella term for any activity that sparks joy. This could be physical movement, or a more relaxing or creative pastime. According to a 2021 report from CTV, the number of people opting to learn a new skill or partake in hobbies skyrocketed during the COVID-19 lockdowns, in a pattern similar to the increase in participation during the Great Depression. On top of having more free time than ever before, there is something innately human about seeking comfort in our favourite activities during unprecedented hardships. Although social media and cell phone use have increased exponentially in the last few years, so has the desire to try something new, to create and connect with others. 

As for physical activities, physicians recommend that adults aim for at least 150 minutes of mild to vigorous exercise weekly, in order to retain our muscle mass and support our cardiovascular health. This could mean anything from a brisk walk with a friend, to swimming, cycling, strength training, playing a sport you enjoy, or attending fitness classes. Fitness looks different for each individual, but finding a fun physical outlet can make a world of difference. Third-year psychology student Kate Johnson shares her experience in picking up a new physical hobby this year. “My hobbies of choice are hot yoga and hot core classes. I started going in late November, around exam season […] I have been going three to five days a week, depending on how much schoolwork I have to do.”  

Johnson went on to explain the benefits she has experienced since trying these classes. “I do struggle with anxiety quite a bit, and staying active has been really helpful with that. I can also feel myself getting stronger physically, and so I hope that continues.” She aspires to continue growing through yoga, and encourages others to try out a new interest. “It has been nice to get back into that groove, and learn about yoga in general. I recommend that if you’re trying something new, go with a friend!” 

Creative hobbies can make an equally positive impact. Medical News Today reported that “Artistic self-expression might contribute to maintenance or reconstruction of a positive identity,” as well as helping to cope with anxiety and process trauma. Creative hobbies could include writing, painting, jewelry making, photography, baking, reading, etc. Third-year chemistry student and baking-enthusiast Julia Reimer expressed the impact that creating these treats has had on her life. “I like to bake – specifically chocolate chip cookies. It’s relaxing, and it’s fun to mix stuff together and see what happens, you can switch up the ingredients and it’s like a little experiment.” She originally picked up baking around age 12, and now bakes two to three times a month, sharing sweet treats with her friends and family.  

Interested in getting involved and learning something new? Mt. A has over 110 clubs and societies available on campus. You can explore your interests and meet like-minded individuals in just about every discipline, from the Pickle-ball Club and the Swing Dance Society to the AI and Robotics Club and the Sweet Treat Society. Doomscrolling does not have to be an inevitable aspect of living in 2025. There is something out there for everyone, and you may discover an underlying passion for a hobby you have not even heard of yet! 



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