You tell yourself you need a break, but when you finally get a little free time, you have no idea what to do with it. That is the real reason so many women look for hobbies. It is usually not just about finding something fun to pass the time. It is about needing a way to breathe, feel like yourself again, and step out of the constant pressure to always be productive.

You might think you are just bad at relaxing, but the deeper problem is that you have learned to see rest as wasted time and enjoyment as something you have to earn. That creates a quiet inner conflict. Part of you wants something that feels personal and fulfilling, while another part keeps saying there is no time, no purpose, or no talent for it.

This is why the right hobby can mean so much more than it seems. It is not just a luxury or a way to stay busy. It can become a way to reconnect your thoughts, emotions, and actions, so your inner life no longer gets pushed aside.

What are the best hobbies for women?

The best hobbies for women are the ones that help you recharge, feel calmer, and reconnect with yourself beyond work, responsibilities, and caring for others. A good hobby is not just about passing the time. It can bring joy, lower stress, and help you feel more grounded, confident, and emotionally balanced. Studies have shown that hobbies and enjoyable leisure activities are strongly linked to better mental well-being, less stress, and even lower rates of depression¹.

Why is there a need for Hobbies for women

• Stress Relief. Provides a mental break and reduces stress.
• Increased Creativity. Stimulates imagination and creative thinking.
• Improved Mental Health. Boosts mood and serves as a creative outlet for anxiety and depression.
• Skill Development. Encourages learning new skills and improvement.
• Enhanced Social Connections. Helps build friendships and social networks.
• Increased Productivity. Offers structured breaks that boost overall productivity.
• Sense of Achievement. Provides a feeling of accomplishment and boosts confidence.

How do you choose the right hobby when you do not know what you like anymore?

Choose by energy, not image. Ask what gives you relief, curiosity, movement, expression, or connection. The right hobby usually feels like a return, not a performance.

Here is a simple framework you can use.

The R.E.A.L. hobby filter

• R — Regulates: Does it calm, focus, or steady you?
• E — Engages: Does it hold your attention naturally?
• A — Aligns: Does it fit your real schedule and budget?
• L — Lets you be yourself: Does it feel personal, not performative?

This framework works because a good hobby is not only interesting. It is emotionally workable.

What mistakes do women often make when starting hobbies?

The biggest mistakes are choosing appearance over substance, overcomplicating the setup, expecting instant passion, and turning the hobby into another task to win at.

A hobby stops helping when it becomes another source of pressure.

Common mistakes

• Choosing a hobby because it looks impressive online
• Buying too much before beginning
• Measuring talent too early
• Comparing your beginning to someone else’s middle
• Picking hobbies that do not fit your actual life
• Quitting because it does not feel magical right away
• Turning rest into productivity again

This matters because the emotional chain is easy to miss. You try a hobby. You feel awkward. You interpret awkwardness as proof that you are not creative. That creates shame. Then you stop before regulation, confidence, or joy can grow.

Why do hobbies for women matter so much emotionally?

Hobbies matter emotionally because they give you somewhere to put your energy besides stress. They help your mind and body slow down, reset, and feel something other than pressure. Instead of just getting through the day, a hobby gives you a way actually to reconnect with yourself².

A lot of people think hobbies are something you earn after everything else is done. But the truth is, life is rarely fully “done.” There is always another task, another responsibility, another reason to wait. So joy gets pushed aside, and over time, that creates a quiet kind of emotional exhaustion.

What happens is this: you have a hard day, and instead of seeing it as just a hard day, you start reading it as proof that you are failing or falling behind. That thought creates stress, guilt, or emotional numbness. Then, naturally, you reach for quick comfort, scrolling, snacking, zoning out. Those things can help for a moment, but they usually do not leave you feeling restored. They distract you, but they do not really replenish you.

A meaningful hobby works differently. It breaks that cycle. It gives your mind a place to land where pressure is not in charge. It can calm your nervous system, soften rumination, and remind you that you are more than your responsibilities. That is why hobbies are so connected to emotional well-being. They can support regulation, lower stress, and create a sense of agency and aliveness. Research has even linked enjoyable leisure activities to better mood, lower cortisol and blood pressure, and stronger overall well-being³.

Why do so many women feel guilty about having hobbies?

Because many women have been taught, directly or indirectly, that their value comes from being useful, productive, available, dependable, and selfless. In that kind of conditioning, rest can feel lazy, pleasure can feel selfish, and anything done purely for joy can start to feel unnecessary.

So when a woman makes time for a hobby, it can trigger an inner voice that says, “I should be doing something more important.” I am neglecting something. This is indulgent. This is childish. The guilt shows up before the enjoyment even has a chance.

And that guilt is not just random insecurity. It is often the result of years of social messages about what a “good” woman is supposed to be.

That is why hobbies for women matter on a deeper level. They are not just little extras or cute pastimes. They are a way of reclaiming inner space. A way of saying: my life is not only for output, service, or Survival. I am allowed to have something that is mine.

Virginia Woolf wrote that women need a space of their own to create and fully exist inwardly⁴. That idea still matters because emotional life needs room. Joy needs room. Identity needs room.

In that sense, a hobby is not trivial at all. It can be a form of self-return.

What are the best hobbies for women who feel stressed, numb, or emotionally drained?

When you’re emotionally drained, the best hobbies are usually the ones that feel calming and easy to fall into. Low-pressure, sensory activities can help you reset without making you feel like you have to “do well” at them.

Things like walking, journaling, gardening, knitting, colouring, reading, baking, yoga, photography, or simple crafts can be especially helpful. They give your mind something soft to focus on, which can make everything feel a little more manageable.

When your brain is overloaded, you usually do not need a hobby that pushes you to perform. You need something that helps you feel steady again.

Best hobbies for stress relief and emotional regulation

• Walking
• Journaling
• Yoga or stretching
• Gardening
• Knitting or crocheting
• Adult coloring
• Baking
• Reading fiction
• Pottery
• Candle making

These hobbies help because they’re simple, soothing, and don’t come with much pressure. A lot of them involve gentle repetition, paying attention to your senses, and making little, satisfying progress. Studies have also found that hobbies and leisure activities can ease stress, improve how people feel about their overall health, and help them feel more capable of handling stress⁵. Creative hobbies, in particular, have been linked to lower levels of depression and greater life satisfaction.

Which hobbies for women are best if you have very little time?

The best low-time hobbies are simple, portable, and easy to restart. They do not require a long setup, a special room, or large blocks of time. The goal is not intensity. It is continuity.

One common mistake is choosing a fantasy hobby for a fantasy version of your life.

You imagine full afternoons, a clean table, perfect supplies, and silence. Then real life arrives, and the hobby fails. But the failure is not your character. It is the mismatch.

Low-time hobbies that actually fit busy lives

• Five-minute sketching
• Pocket journaling
• Audiobooks while walking
• Embroidery
• Language apps
• Reading poetry
• Mobile photography
• Mini baking projects
• Short home workouts
• Balcony gardening

Research on women’s time poverty helps explain why this matters. Many women are not resisting hobbies out of laziness. They are working around unequal time burdens⁶.

What are the best creative hobbies for women?

You’re not alone if you want something different because your routine is becoming a little monotonous. Finding rewarding and enjoyable hobbies can be a challenge for many women. When trying to fit something enjoyable into a hectic schedule and everything you try seems to fail, it can be frustrating.

But don’t worry; there are plenty of creative and fun hobbies for women that can break up monotony and bring excitement into your life. How about giving painting or drawing a try? It’s a great way to express yourself and unwind.

1. Card Games

You could find what you’re looking for in card games. They’re a terrific way to relax, have fun, and even push your mental limits. Card games may be an excellent way to unwind and interact with others, whether you prefer more casual games like Go Fish or UNO, or more traditional ones like bridge or poker.

They are flexible and easy to incorporate into your schedule, as you can enjoy them alone or with friends. They can also be a fantastic technique to improve memory and strategic thinking.

Moreover, if you don’t have a deck of cards, these games are easily accessible online. Sudoku, crosswords, and jigsaw puzzles are excellent ways to keep the mind active. They provide a fulfilling challenge that you can complete alone or with others at your own pace. Additionally, these games are easily accessible online.

2. Beekeeping

Beekeeping? It’s far cooler than you may imagine. Think about spending time with a group of tiny, active bees. Watching it is like having your own miniature insect kingdom. You can also enjoy the honey they produce!

It’s naturally delicious and pleasurable. Additionally, you’re benefiting the environment because bees are essential for pollination, which supports the growth of flowers and other plants. Therefore, beekeeping can be your thing if you enjoy the outdoors and sweets.

3. Soapmaking.

Soapmaking is like baking, but for your skin! You get to play with colours, scents, and different oils. It’s totally fun, and you can make soap for everyone – your mom, your best friend, even your dog!

The best part? You know exactly what’s going into your soap. No weird chemicals or anything. It’s all-natural, and you can make it as fancy or as simple as you want. Trust me, once you start, you won’t stop!

4. Painting Or Drawing

Both drawing and painting are fantastic forms of self-expression. Creating a lively and enjoyable appearance is the primary goal of painting. It’s similar to manipulating a rainbow on paper.

Drawing is not the same. It involves attempting to depict something’s true appearance through lines and shading. It’s like gaining a completely new perspective on the world. The best part, though? You are not required to choose only one! Why not try both and see what you like? Many artists do both.

5. Sculpting

Making sculptures is similar to working with 3D playdough. From nothing, you can mould and shape something. It’s a tactile pastime that lets you feel the substance beneath your fingers.

Working with clay, wood, or even metal allows you to make something genuinely one-of-a-kind. The outcome makes up for the messiness. It’s quite satisfying to picture holding your work in your hands!

6. Sushi Making

For women, cooking sushi is a lot of fun! It resembles a fusion of art and cooking. It allows you to experiment with flavours and colours. Additionally, it’s a fantastic way to showcase your sophisticated skills to your friends. And who doesn’t enjoy consuming mouthwatering sushi prepared from scratch? It is quite satisfying!

7. Jewellery Making

The process of creating jewellery is similar to dressing up your accessories! To make something one-of-a-kind, you can choose your hues, gemstones, and forms. It’s similar to assembling a jigsaw puzzle, but much more intricate and detailed. Additionally, you can create jewellery for your loved ones. It’s a wonderful opportunity to indulge yourself and showcase your creative side.

8. Photography

The answer may lie in photography. It’s a pastime that lets you document and enjoy the world around you. Photography can offer a fresh perspective on things, whether you’re interested in capturing images of everyday life, cityscapes, or the natural world.

It’s a fantastic opportunity to use your creativity, and it can be as straightforward or complex as you choose. It’s also something you may do with friends and family or by yourself.

9. Creative Writing

The solution you seek may lie in creative writing. It provides an excellent means of communicating your ideas, feelings, and thoughts. Whether you want to write poetry, short stories, or even the first draft of a novel, creative writing lets you explore many facets of your life. You can modify this adaptable pastime to suit your hobbies and schedule, making it a wonderful way to decompress.

10. Candle Making

Create your own candles if you’re looking for a way to add a unique touch to your surroundings. You can experiment with various scents, hues, and forms to create lovely, fragrant candles that enhance any space. Making something useful and aesthetically pleasing is an enjoyable way to get your hands dirty.

11. Playing Video Games

It can be challenging for many women to unwind and relax through engaging activities. Whether you enjoy puzzle-solving, globe exploration, or action-packed adventures, video games provide a dynamic way to interact with entertainment. You can connect with friends and family to share the pleasure, and it’s a great way to relieve tension.

12. Interior Design Making

Through the selection of colour palettes, furnishings, and décor, interior design enables you to take charge of your environment. It’s an imaginative method to update your house and give it a distinctly personal touch. You can express your individual taste and create a room that is both attractive and functional through interior design, regardless of whether you prefer vibrant colours or minimalist styles.

13. Knitting

Knitting is a classic pastime that fosters creativity and relaxation. Yarn can be transformed into fabric using needles, creating a wide range of objects, including clothing and decorative items. Every project you work on gives you a sense of joy and success. With numerous yarn options and patterns to choose from, knitting increases creativity while also enhancing concentration and patience. It’s satisfying to create something lovely while engaging in a soothing hobby.

14. Calligraphy Practising

Perhaps calligraphy is what you’re looking for. Learn how to make lovely lettering in a variety of styles with specialist pens and brushes. This type of painting challenges your self-control and creativity while offering a fulfilling way to craft sophisticated handmade cards, invitations, and artwork. As you practice, you’ll also see improvements in your fine motor abilities.

15. Scrapbooking

 Scrapbooking is a fantastic method to preserve and arrange your most treasured memories. Add stickers, background sheets, and embellishments like pressed flowers or ticket stubs to your best images. It’s an enjoyable and unique way to capture life’s special moments or create a sentimental gift, adding originality and nostalgia to your most treasured memories.

16. Gathering in Faith Communities

For many women, belonging to a faith group offers a supportive and purposeful setting. A network of supporting relationships, a sense of purpose, and spiritual growth can all be obtained by joining a church community.

It’s a chance to engage in group activities, make connections with people who share your values and ideas, and receive support and consolation when you need it. Your spiritual journey can be enhanced and enduring; meaningful relationships can be forged by joining a church community.

17. Meditation

You might benefit greatly from meditation. It presents an opportunity for mental relaxation, stress reduction, and overall improvement in well-being. You can enhance your self-awareness and emotional resilience by dedicating a few moments each day to meditation.

18. Journaling

  
Are you feeling overtaken by ideas or feelings? Maintaining attention and managing your emotions can be greatly aided by keeping a journal. It facilitates self-expression, helps you remember significant events, and enhances your understanding of various aspects of your life. It also provides a private space for you to think and organise your ideas.

19. Adult Colouring

Although the drawings are more complex and sophisticated, adult colouring offers a creative release similar to that of children. You can relax and lose yourself in intricate patterns with this peaceful activity, which provides a welcome diversion from the stresses of everyday life.

Mental And Physical Health Hobbies for Women

Here is a list of my favourite hobbies for women when it comes to nurturing mental and physical health:

20. YOGA

Yoga is a great way to stretch and strengthen your body while also calming your mind. The combination of movement and breath work helps reduce stress and increase flexibility, making it a well-rounded practice.

21. Walking or Hiking

Walking or hiking gets you moving while letting you enjoy the outdoors. It’s a simple way to improve your cardiovascular health and lift your mood, especially when you explore nature trails or scenic routes.

21. Walking or Hiking

You may enjoy the outdoors and get moving by going for a walk or taking a hike. Exploring scenic routes or nature paths is an easy way to boost your mood and cardiovascular health.

22. Gardening

You can get your hands dirty while doing something calming, such as gardening. It includes labour-intensive tasks like planting and excavating, but it also offers an opportunity to unwind and commune with nature.

23. Swimming

Swimming provides an easy-on-the-joints full-body workout. Being in the water can be really pleasant, and it’s a great way to increase strength and endurance.

24. Tai Chi

Tai chi combines deep breathing with calm, purposeful motions. Balance and flexibility are enhanced by this low-impact workout, which also helps to focus and relax the mind.

25. Cycling

Riding a bicycle is another way to travel and stay in shape. Cycling gives you a sense of independence and strengthens your legs and heart, whether you’re riding a stationary bike or the road. Strength training exercises promote muscle growth and endurance. It’s a fantastic method to increase your physical strength, and as you see results over time, it can also boost your confidence.

Recent reviews and large observational studies support the mental health benefits of creativity, the arts, and crafting. These activities are linked with improved subjective well-being and reduced loneliness or distress in many contexts⁷.

Adventurous Hobbies For Women

If you’re craving some adventure in your life, here are a few hobbies for women that can get your heart racing and bring excitement into your routine.

26. Rock climbing

Rock climbing is a thrilling way to push your mental and physical limits. Reaching the top of indoor climbing walls or natural rock faces demands strength, planning, and concentration. Nothing compares to the rush of reaching the peak.

27. Surfing

The excitement of riding waves and connecting with the water is what surfing offers. Your endurance, agility, and balance will be thoroughly tested in this sport. Since every wave is distinct, surfing is a unique and exciting experience every time.

28. Scuba diving

By exploring the undersea environment through scuba diving, you can find coral reefs and marine life. You can experience a sense of wonder and discovery through this calm yet thrilling hobby, which leads you to places most people never see.

29. Skydiving

For those looking for an adrenaline rush, skydiving is the ultimate adventure. A completely new perspective on adventure is offered by the amazing experience of jumping out of an aeroplane and free-falling before your parachute opens.

30. Mountain biking

You venture onto rough paths and off the usual route when mountain biking. For individuals who love pushing their boundaries and discovering new places, this exhilarating sport blends speed, skill, and a passion for the outdoors.

31. Kayaking

While kayaking over rivers, lakes, or coastal waterways, you can experience both adventure and peace. Depending on where you decide to go, the trip might be either serene or an exhilarating ride through rapids.

32. Backpacking

By hiking with everything you need on your back, you can experience nature and visit far-flung locations. It’s an enjoyable opportunity to test your stamina and independence while taking in the splendour of the wilderness.

Self-Defence Hobbies For Women

If you’re interested in learning how to protect yourself while staying active, self-defence hobbies for women are also a great choice. 

33. Krav Maga

Krav Maga is a realistic self-defence method that emphasises real-world scenarios. It teaches you how to respond to various threats in a timely and effective manner by employing simple yet powerful tactics. The exercise increases both physical fitness and confidence.

34. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

The martial art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has a strong emphasis on submission holds and ground combat. Women benefit greatly from it, as it teaches them how to use position and technique to outmanoeuvre larger opponents. It sharpens your talents and works your mind and body.

35. Aikido

Instead of using force to counter force, the Japanese martial art of aikido focuses on rerouting an attacker’s energy. For anyone who wishes to learn effective and non-aggressive self-defence techniques, it’s perfect. The methods prioritise harmony and balance.

36. Taekwondo

Fast punches and high kicks are hallmarks of the Korean martial art of Taekwondo. You can study self-defence and improve your strength, agility, and flexibility in a fun and engaging way. Taekwondo adopts a comprehensive approach to self-defence, emphasising respect and discipline.

Punching, defending, and precise movement are all skills that boxing teaches. It’s a rigorous workout that develops both mental and physical resilience. Boxing not only helps you defend yourself but also enhances your coordination and response time.

Fun Hobbies For Women

37. Baking

A fun way to express your creativity in the kitchen is via baking. Whether you’re baking bread, cakes, or cookies, it’s fun to try different recipes and savour the delectable results. Additionally, there’s an added element of happiness in sharing your delights with loved ones.

38. Crafting

Another enjoyable hobby that lets you create something original with your hands is crafting. Crafting offers you the opportunity to customise your creations and enjoy a soothing, practical activity, whether it’s knitting, scrapbooking, or DIY home décor.

39. Painting

You can express yourself through colour and brushwork when you paint. Painting is a fun and soothing way to bring your creative ideas to life, whether you’re working on porcelain, canvas, or even furniture. The process, not just the final product, is what matters most.

40. Gardening

A fulfilling way to spend time outside while creating something lovely is to garden. Whether you’re cultivating herbs, vegetables, or flowers, gardening allows you to enjoy the results of your labour and establish a connection with the natural world.

41. Learning a musical instrument

Playing an instrument can be both enjoyable and challenging. Playing music may be a wonderful way to unwind and express your creativity, whether you decide to play the piano, guitar, or ukulele. Additionally, you can continue to improve it over time, which opens up numerous fun possibilities.

42. Exploring new cuisines

Using cooking to experiment with different cuisines is a great way to add variety to your meals. You can transform an everyday meal into an exciting culinary experience in the comfort of your kitchen by experimenting with different flavours, methods, and ingredients.

43. Joining a book club

Reading and interacting with others are two benefits of joining a book club. Reading with others can open your eyes to different ideas and viewpoints, and it’s a terrific opportunity to meet new people while immersing yourself in intriguing tales.

Fulfilling Hobbies For Women

If you’re looking for hobbies for women that provide a sense of fulfilment and meaning, here are a few that can enrich your life and bring deep satisfaction.

44. volunteering

One way to give back to the community and improve others’ lives is to volunteer. Volunteering gives people a sense of purpose and connection, whether they are supporting a cause they care about, mentoring young people, or assisting at a local food bank.

45. Mentoring

You can share your expertise and experiences with others through teaching or mentoring. Giving advice to someone in your area, teaching a craft, or tutoring students are all fulfilling ways to watch others develop and thrive.

46. writing and blogging

Writing is a rewarding method to share your ideas, experiences, and tales. Journaling, blogging, or writing a novel are all forms of writing that offer a creative outlet and a way to leave a legacy through your words.

47. learning a new skill

Your mind stays engaged and busy when you learn a new skill. Learning a new skill can be incredibly fulfilling and lead to new opportunities, whether it’s learning to code, playing a musical instrument, or acquiring a new language.

48. Exercise and Wellness Activities

Yoga, Pilates, and meditation are practices that enhance both your physical and mental health and bring you joy. Making a commitment to your health and witnessing improvements over time may be quite fulfilling.

49. photography

The beauty of nature, family gatherings, or everyday scenes can all be captured and preserved through photography. It’s a hobby that offers a fresh perspective on the world and helps you appreciate the little things.

50. traveling

Exploring new locations, cultures, and viewpoints is a rewarding aspect of travel. Travel expands your horizons, creates lasting experiences, and deepens your understanding of the world, whether it’s a weekend trip or a trip overseas.

What social hobbies for women help with loneliness and connection?

Social hobbies create low-pressure connections through shared activity. This matters because many adults find direct socialising harder than doing something purposeful together.

Loneliness is not always the absence of people. Sometimes it is the absence of mutual attention.

Social hobbies for women

• Book clubs
• Choir or singing groups
• Community gardening
• Pottery classes
• Dance groups
• Running clubs
• Volunteer work
• Cooking classes
• Hiking groups
• Board game nights

Leisure activities often support well-being partly by increasing social connection and a sense of belonging, not only because they are enjoyable⁸.

10 interesting hobbies for an elderly woman

These suggestions can provide happiness, relaxation, and a sense of purpose if you’re looking for engaging leisure activities for ladies that are suitable for senior citizens.

Crocheting or knitting is a productive and soothing hobby for women. Creating warm products like hats, blankets, or scarves fosters creativity. It is ideal for maintaining engagement and providing considerate gifts because it is gentle on the joints and can be done at a slow pace.

A great way to spend time outdoors and take in the scenery is through gardening. Gardening offers a sense of achievement and the joy of caring for living things, whether you’re tending to a flower bed or cultivating herbs in pots.

A timeless hobby, reading can transport you to new places without requiring you to leave your chair. Novels, biographies, or even audiobooks are great ways to keep the mind sharp and engaged, especially if eyesight becomes an issue.

A quick and easy approach to being active is to go for a walk. Walking preserves mobility and offers an opportunity to take in the fresh air and natural surroundings, whether you’re strolling around the neighbourhood or a local park.

Sudoku, crosswords, and jigsaw puzzles are excellent ways to keep the mind active. They provide a fulfilling challenge that you can complete alone or with others at your own pace.

Drawing or painting is a fantastic method to exercise your creativity. You may express yourself through colours and forms with these satisfying, calming exercises, even if you’ve never done them before.

Baking and cooking can be enjoyable, especially when experimenting with new recipes or recreating family favourites. Enjoying the process of making something delectable and maintaining a connection to traditions are two excellent benefits.

All you need is a cosy chair and a pair of binoculars to enjoy the soothing hobby of bird-watching. Seeing birds in your garden or a nearby park may be calming and enlightening, providing a sense of connection to the natural world.

There is a sense of camaraderie that comes with joining a social club or group. For mental and emotional health, maintaining social bonds is crucial, whether through senior centre activities, book clubs, or knitting groups.

Podcasts and music listening can be both instructive and enjoyable. Listening to music and podcasts is a great way to unwind and keep your mind engaged, whether you’re revisiting old favourites or exploring new genres.

Conclusion

Looking for hobbies isn’t usually just about finding a way to pass the time. Often, it starts with a quieter, deeper question: Why do I feel a little disconnected from myself, even though I’m doing everything I’m supposed to? The answer is rarely that you need to be more productive. More often, it’s that your inner world needs space to exist without being measured by results.

That’s the real shift in perspective. A hobby isn’t just something extra you add to your “real” life. Sometimes, it’s the place where your real life starts to show up again.

So read through ideas slowly. Notice what makes you feel a little lighter, what sparks your curiosity, or what helps your body relax. Choose the hobby that feels less like another task for self-improvement, and more like finding your way back to yourself.

Pick one hobby that feels emotionally honest, not socially impressive, and give it a small place in your week.

FAQS

1. Pressman, S. D., Matthews, K. A., Cohen, S., Martire, L. M., Scheier, M., Baum, A., & Schulz, R. (2009). Association of enjoyable leisure activities with psychological and physical well-being. Psychosomatic Medicine, 71(7), 725–732.
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2. Fancourt, D., Aughterson, H., Finn, S., Walker, E., & Steptoe, A. (2021). How leisure activities affect health: A narrative review and multi-level theoretical framework of mechanisms of action. The Lancet Psychiatry, 8(4), 329–339. ↩︎
3. Pressman, S. D., Matthews, K. A., Cohen, S., Martire, L. M., Scheier, M., Baum, A., & Schulz, R. (2009). Association of enjoyable leisure activities with psychological and physical well-being. Psychosomatic Medicine, 71(7), 725–732 ↩︎
4. Woolf (1929) argued that women need economic and psychological space of their own to create and develop an inner life. ↩︎
5. Mak, H. W., Fluharty, M., & Fancourt, D. (2023). Hobby engagement and mental well-being among people aged 65 years and older in 16 countries. Nature Medicine. ↩︎
6. Hyde, E., & Floro, M. (2020). Time poverty: Obstacle to women’s human rights, health and sustainable development—Journal of Global Health, 10(2), 020313. ↩︎
7. Keyes, H., Rees-Lee, L., May, R., & Bone, J. K. (2024). Creating arts and crafts positively predicts subjective well-being—Frontiers in Public Health. ↩︎
8. Fancourt, D., Aughterson, H., Finn, S., Walker, E., & Steptoe, A. (2021). How leisure activities affect health: A narrative review and multi-level theoretical framework of mechanisms of action. The Lancet Psychiatry, 8(4), 329–339. ↩︎