Learn how hobbies help to manage life’s stressors Published March 26, 2010 By Dr. Wynell Neece Organizational Consulting Office TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- I've often discussed stress management/relief strategies with client organizations as a way to help individuals manage their work and personal lives. Many times we think in terms of exercise or meditation to aid in stress relief. Often overlooked is the use of hobbies as an aid in helping individuals relax and find an escape from their hectic pace and as a valuable stress management tool. Everyone needs an interest outside of regular work. Hobbies provide pleasure and diversion from the monotony, tedium and frenzied work patterns that many people experience. Some people collect items such as stamps, coins, art or antiques. Other people may develop a talent. Photography, painting, dancing are just a few of the ways to express our talents on canvas or in some other medium. Hobbies also serve as a way to bring family members together in a common venture. Learning some new and different skills can provide family members with an enjoyable and pleasant time, as well as open avenues of communication that may not be used during other times of the day. Family camping or backpacking trips can be excellent means of diversion. Recent studies have shown that people with hobbies are happier and less stressed than those without. Unfortunately, the definition of a hobby is "something you do in your free time." And free time is often limited and precious. It's easy when you're so busy and pulled in so many different directions to lose sight of the things you love to do for fun and when you do it can take a real toll on your stress levels and your health. So follow these three steps to less stress and more happiness. · Hobbies are a great way to follow your dreams in a small and manageable way. Sign up for a class or join a club that relates to something you've always wanted to try. · Search out organizations that relate to your newfound (or rekindled) hobby and see what they have to offer. · Recruit a buddy to go along for the ride. Friendships also suffer in today's bustling world and there's no reason you can't multi-task and solidify friendships while working on a fun project. The 72nd Force Support Squadron offers a wide variety of support for many hobbies. The list is long and recent offerings include dance lessons, quilting, pottery making and automotive repair. There are also opportunities for golfing, bowling and even a class for those who may have an interest in toad abode house creating. Although some hobbies may eventually become sources of economic gain, the approach to finding one should be for pleasure. The more a hobby interests you, the more pleasure you will derive from it. A good rule of thumb to follow is to try to develop a hobby that is completely different from your line of work. For example, those who work in relative isolation may find being around groups of people enjoyable and choose to become scout masters or join a bowling league. So keep fishing, collecting dolls or practicing you own "Dancing with the Stars" moves. If you don't have a hobby or interest, this might be a good time to find one. For more information on how you can pursue or develop your hobbies, contact Tinker Services by visiting www.tinkerservices.com.