HOBBIES FOR HEALTH
(These five hobbies are from Anthony J. Yeung, CSCS who writes for Esquire, GQ and Men’s Health.)
Cooking
Learning to cook helps in selecting healthy ingredients by choosing the best macronutrients-proteins, fats, and carbohydrates-you eat at each meal. It also helps in avoiding nonhealthy foods. Perhaps more importantly it avoids the foods of restaurants and packaged meals.
Hiking
Not only is hiking good for your lower body, core and cardiovascular system but being surrounded by nature helps you relax and take a break from the stresses of life. In the city, meet with friends, walk your dog or get some coffee for takeaway.
Reading
Reading isn’t just for learning, it’s great exercise for your brain. Unwinding reading a book helps relieve stress too.
(Did You Know? Research has found reading for 30 minutes can lower your blood pressure, heart rate and stress as effectively as doing 30 minutes of yoga.)
Yoga
A practice that enhances your flexibility, strength, and stamina. It also includes a mindfulness component which helps relieve tension and improves mood.
Dancing
Dancing is a fun way to burn calories without doing traditional exercise. It can also increase your coordination, balance and flexibility. It may even improve your relationship!