6 Hobbies Programmers Can Participate in to Promote Relaxation

Programming can be exciting and it can also be stressful. As a programmer you spend a lot of time in front of a computer. To help with stress and relaxation, here are six hobbies you can participate in that will help you relax.

1. Take music lessons

Learning to play a musical instrument can be both relaxing and rewarding. It will help keep your fingers nimble and your brain agile. Not only will you have fun learning something new, you could join a band or an orchestra and enjoy time with other people who like music. Playing a musical instrument will help with stress relief. You can escape your stress by getting into the music you are playing.

2. Cooking

Take time to learn how to cook. Cooking can be a major stress release. You are involved in creating something from scratch that you will be able to enjoy when it is finished. So throw on some music and dance around your kitchen while whipping up a gourmet meal. It is not hard to do and you will be able to let your worries go while you are creating a masterpiece for your mouth.

3. Dancing

Dancing is a great way to relieve stress. People who dance are more limber, healthier, and worry free. The type of dance does not matter. You could take salsa dancing classes and let the stress fly away while you dance around the floor. Not only will you relax, you will get a chance to get out and meet other people who are interested in the same hobby.

4. Reading

Whether it is on a kindle or a paperback, reading is a great way to relax. You will explore new worlds or open up your imagination to new ideas and creations. You can read fiction, non-fiction, biographies, graphic novels, or whatever you desire. This is a great hobby for folks who just want to get away but who do not want to leave their house. Books will take you anywhere you can imagine. So go to your local library or independent book store and start browsing. Who knows what treasures you may find?

5. Exercise

Getting up and away from your computer will help you relax. Exercising releases endorphins which make you feel less stressed and more relaxed. You can jog around the block or work out at a nearby gym. Movement will help you decrease any aches and pains you may feel while sitting at your desk. Play some tennis or go out for a round of golf. What you do does not matter it just matters that you exercise.

6. Games

You can relax while you play video games or board games with your family and friends. A bit of friendly competition is good for you. You will be using your brain while enjoying other people’s company. Board games, card games, and video games are all a fun and relaxing hobby to have. You can invite friends over and play games while enjoying some wine and snacks, or you can play with your family after dinner. There is no end to the fun you will have while playing games.

All of these hobbies will help you relax and be less stressed. After sitting at your desk all day it will be good to get out and exercise or take a reading break. You can plan a game night one night a week with family and friends to help you unwind. Whatever you decide to do, make sure it is a hobby you enjoy so you will reap all the benefits.

6 Hobbies Programmers Can Participate in to Promote Relaxation was originally published in Hacker Noon on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.