Four practical ways to pick hobbies that boost your health

Social prescribing connects people to non-medical activities—like sea swimming, art, or nature—to support health. The piece uses Amanda’s story to show how to pick health-promoting hobbies: align the activity with your symptoms (exercise and nature boost mood; mindfulness aids focus); cultivate intrinsic motivation and, with the help of link workers, explore meaningful pursuits; and try childhood joys or new activities with a ready-to-say 'yes.' When pursued with meaning and enjoyment, such hobbies can reduce depression, lessen loneliness, and improve overall wellbeing.