When you are busy or stressed, doing things you enjoy is often the last thing on your mind. However, making time for activities you enjoy can help you rest, improve your mood, and cope better. It may take some effort to make time regularly for your hobbies, but it is an important part of looking after yourself.

Start an activity you enjoy

Think about the activities that make you feel happy or rested. They do not have to be big or complicated. Some simple ideas include:

• Watching a show you like
• Cooking or baking
• Exercising or going for a walk
• Drawing or writing
• Listening to music

You can start small, even just 30 minutes a week can help.  A short break can improve your mood and make you feel more like yourself. Over time, making time for activities you enjoy will start to feel like a natural part of looking after yourself.

Activity: Make a List of Your Hobbies

Write down a list of activities that you enjoy, and keep it somewhere you can see it. When you are feeling stressed or sad, you can look at the list and choose something to do. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Watching a favourite show or movie
• Going for a walk
• Calling or meeting up with a friend
• Listening to music or a podcast
• Cooking or baking something you enjoy

Consider inviting a friend to join you. It does not have to be anything special. Even simple things like cooking a meal or watching a movie can help you feel better.

Taking time to do things you enjoy is one way to be kind to yourself. You can find more tips on how to be kind to yourself.