Anxiety is a given emotion of every student, teen, and young adult. In stressful situations, people, especially among Gen Z go straight toward social media notifications and doomscrolling on TikTok to try and get rid of the never-ending nervous tension.

The terrifying reality is, “Gen Z spends 6 hours and 27 minutes on their phone every day while Baby Boomers spend a little over 4 hours (which is still double the recommended limit)” according to harmonyhit.com. However, there is a light at the end of the tunnel for Gen Z. A growing number  of young adults are turning toward slow hobbies to relieve stress. The slow pace of life is a dream to many; gardening, crocheting, reading, and journaling have become a new norm for plenty of people in Gen Z.

Quiet hobbies are an escape from the utter chaos of life. The attraction to social media is at an unhealthy point for many young adults. Over the past couple of years, there has been a notable shift in screen time. There is a major appeal to sharing the most unattainable lives and experiences. These desirable lifestyles can make anyone feel the stress and anxiety of reality. This stress adds to the continuous uneasiness of everyday life. Therefore, these quiet hobbies are a way to escape from that stress and screentime so one can disconnect and feel peace.

A first-year student at the University of Missouri, Carsyn Colby, explained how her quiet hobby has benefitted her in many ways. “Ever since I was younger, I found reading and writing as an escape from the real world,” Colby said. “You are able to enter a fake fantasy world where you have zero real impact.” Colby expressed how her quiet hobby transforms her reality into fantasy. Therefore, allowing her to escape from the stress of the world.

Benefits of Quiet Hobbies

The world is in a constant state of stress and anxiety. It is easy to get wrapped up in the horrors of it all. However, there can be true beneficial outlets to be rid of chaos. Utah State University research shows that there are positive effects of quiet hobbies. “For instance, one study showed approximately 75% of participants’ cortisol levels (one of the most widely studied hormonal markers of stress) were lowered after making art.” There is science behind the art of quiet hobbies. Presently, there are millions that suffer from stress and anxiety, and as shown through a small study you can decompress by doing something you genuinely love. It is another amazing way to disconnect from your telephone.

“When I am reading, it feels like I am learning something and it is benefiting me in some ways, rather than just doomscrolling on my phone when I am stressed,” Colby said. It is important to recognize that these quiet hobbies are beneficial in more ways than most could have imagined.

Not only are there mental health benefits to starting a quiet hobby, but there is also a major online presence for those looking for a hobby.

Although social media and technology have negatively affected many people, there are some good things that can come from the world of social media. Gen Z is the generation of chronically online young adults and teens who share and express new things every day. On the massively famous app, Tik Tok, there is a certain hashtag labeled BookTok where millions can find recommendations and share their honest opinions about a book. This is one reason more people are turning toward reading, and quiet hobbies.

This influence is incredibly important for those searching for a fulfilling, quiet hobby. There are plenty of downsides to social media, but there is

some good that can be created by community and networks of people. They can give opportunities and innovative ideas to those seeking a quiet hobby. The world is starting to see the growth in these hobbies.

“Quiet hobbies like reading, journaling, and gardening are definitely getting more popular with Gen Z,” Colby said. It is slowly becoming “trendy” to romanticize a calm, measured lifestyle. Therefore, making quiet hobbies is necessary in the lives of many people.

Self-Care Trends

There has been a major emphasis on self-care in recent years. Cherishing and taking care of yourself is the new “it girl” trend as of late. These slow hobbies are a major form of self-care and can be extremely self-soothing. Reading gives you an escape into a new world, painting allows one to create and feel accomplished, gardening brings life into the world and gives a sense of achievement. The list goes on with these slow but nurturing lifestyles. There is an aesthetically pleasing appeal to quiet hobbies. Everyone is captivated by something, that’s why slow and calming hobbies can help you learn to be the best at something.

Try something

Quiet hobbies are so important in the craziness of today’s world. It is easy to get wrapped up in the chaos of it all. It is also known that finding a hobby that one can fully enjoy can be incredibly difficult. You enjoy putting your brain to work, sitting down, and starting a puzzle is a great start. If you love painting, but are not confident in yourself, try paint by numbers. Starting small is the key to finding something you enjoy. Never force yourself, always try something that seems authentic to you. The environment around you is vital to the process. A calm and peaceful environment allows you to sink into your hobby and immerse yourself in the process of decompressing.

Start the journey

These hobbies can truly be a lifeline in many ways. People are defined by work, social life, and school that it can be so hard to disconnect from the constant state of restlessness. These hobbies are a start to a journey of self-discovery and create non-harmful ways to recharge. Peace is so desired in today’s world that it is so hard to really get started with the first few steps. Quiet hobbies are the first step. Find your peace, start your quiet hobby now.