Stargazer Women's Magazine

Let’s face it. You can do as much Christmas decorating as you want, but as soon as the season of cheer is over, winter can feel extremely bleak and boring. Once all of the parties and gift-giving are done, what are you supposed to do with yourself? There are still weeks and weeks of cold weather and dark days left. The good news is, you’re not alone. 

Lots of people experience the post-holiday blues. And, while there may not be a one-size-fits-all solution to enjoying the rest of winter, you do have options. Starting a new hobby, or dusting off an old one, can be an amazing way to keep your mind engaged and your spirits up, even when it’s dark at 5 o’clock, and there are no fun plans on the horizon. If you’re looking for one of the top hobbies to beat the winter blues, here are some you need to try. 

Cozy up with some knitting

When it comes to hobbies that help you beat the wintertime blues, knitting is number one. Not only is it a cozy activity, but it can also be incredibly relaxing. Not only can it be fun to plan a new project and pick out your yarn and other accessories, but the act of knitting has a great effect on the nervous system. The rhythm of making repetitive stitches helps your brain release serotonin and also reduces cortisol. This means that not only do you get to feel proud of yourself for making an actual, tangible (and cozy!) item you can hold, but you also get a dose of feel-good mood-boosting hormones, too. 

Beat the winter blues with a new book

Reading is another great hobby for the wintertime, especially if you’re like me and happen to be a big reader who hasn’t actually picked up a new book in a while. From fantasy to romance, there are a ton of genres to get totally lost in. If you’re the kind of person who likes to read but needs a little extra pressure to actually finish a book, joining a book club, online or IRL, can be an amazing way to keep you on track and make sure that you actually finish the next book you start. 

Unlock the mysteries of tarot

Tarot cards can be a lot of fun, but they can also seem intimidating to learn. The long, cold days are a perfect time to settle in and study the meanings of each card and how they work together. Even if you’re not into fortune-telling, they can still be an entertaining and interactive card game to play, with the potential benefit of personal enrichment. Of course, making sure you get started the right way is important for getting the most out of this hobby. Ebooks like “Tarot Basics: Starting the Journey of Understanding Tarot” can be great for doing just that. 

Boost your mood with yoga

Yoga is an amazing physical hobby that you can get into, right in your living room. Some might like to go to a class, but the reality is that there is plenty you can learn and explore at home. From endless YouTube videos to online exercise subscriptions, there are plenty of options for everyone. This is true whether you’re a seasoned yogi who just wants to work on some difficult poses or a total beginner who’s totally intimidated, even by Savasana. 

Take a trip down memory lane

Winter means lots of time stuck in the house, which can equal extreme boredom for many. That said, it can also be a great time to take a trip down memory lane and dredge up an old interest or two. Did you have a Tomagachi as a kid? Why not try it out again? Or maybe you were more of a Chia Pet type of girl? Either way, a nostalgic hobby can bring some joy and brightness into the dark days of winter. An adult coloring book, or really any art or craft project that takes you back to your youth, can be incredibly fun and help beat the winter blues.