We usually write about the grocery foods that can boost your health and longevity,
but it’s not just food that can benefit your health, it’s also socialization, attending
religious services, helping others, being around and caring for pets and hobbies.

Yes, hobbies. According to researchers, participating in a leisure activity can help
you stay trim and mentally sharp for life. That’s why the researchers recommend
you do one (or more) of the following.

a) Playing Games-
Are you a family that plays Monopoly, Scrabble, or cards on a regular basis?
Well, games spur new connections between brain cells, making you more
upbeat now and far less likely to suffer from memory problems later on in life.
Another tip: Buy a few jigsaw puzzles and work on them as a family, some
researchers say that they help kids learn all types of math easily and for adults,
it helps with keeping the mind sharp and focused.

b) Gardening-
If you have a huge garden you may not think of it as a hobby, but a small plot
in the backyard or a few plants indoors can help keep your weight in check.
Gardening increases heart rate, challenges muscles and improves joint
mobility.

c) Reading-
It can improve your vocabulary and memory, but that’s not all- it can lower
stress levels by a whopping 70%. Reading literally takes your mind off
worries, the types of worries that can cause heart troubles and strokes.
Another tip: Try and get your kid (s) to read for 30 to 60 minutes a day
as it helps with moods and behavior.
Crossword puzzles also keep you engaged and help you forget your worries.

d) Knitting-
Are you into yoga or meditation? No problem, knitting is almost the same as
these two practices. The rhythmic motion induces a state of calm the same
way meditation and yoga do.

e) Scrapbooking-
Looking at and cutting out news articles, photos, or recipes can stimulate
areas of the brain responsible for intelligence and memory.

f) Journaling-
Writing in a journal daily increases feelings of happiness for months.
One catch though: it’s good to write things that are positive.

g) Horseback Riding-
Walking and brushing the horse, being outdoors and then riding the horse
burns about 350 calories in an hour.

That’s it- Your guide to living longer and healthier just by taking up a hobby.

Sources:
* Michael Wald, M.D.
* Journal of Alternative Medicine
* Oklahoma Univ. Research Dept.
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