Top 10 Stress-Busting Hobbies You Can Start This Week No matter your budget, schedule, or skill level, these hobbies are proven by research to help lower stress, boost mood, and improve overall quality of life. 1. Gardening 🌱 Why it works: A 2020 study in Urban Forestry & Urban Greening found that spending time with plants can reduce cortisol levels and improve focus. Starter tip: Begin with low-maintenance plants like herbs or succulents. 2. Painting or Drawing 🎨 Why it works: Creative activities activate the brain’s reward system, releasing dopamine — the “feel-good” chemical. ( Frontiers in Psychology , 2016) Starter tip: Don’t overthink it — try 15 minutes of doodling daily. 3. Hiking or Nature Walks 🚶♀️ Why it works: Exposure to green spaces is linked to lower anxiety and depression (American Psychological Association). Starter tip: Start with local parks or short trails before tackling longer hikes. 4. Playing a Musical Instrument 🎶 Why it works: Music-mak...