As winter settles in, it's natural to spend a little more time indoors and look for ways to stay connected, engaged, and look after ourselves.
One simple way to support wellbeing is through hobbies, creative projects, and small personal challenges. Whether it's crocheting a granny square, reading a book, learning a new skill, baking, gardening, or getting out for a daily walk, these activities can bring a sense of purpose, achievement, and enjoyment to the colder months.
Research suggests that hobbies can help reduce stress, boost mood, build confidence, encourage social connection, and provide opportunities for creativity and personal growth. They can also help shift our focus away from everyday worries and towards something positive and meaningful.
When we think about hobbies or personal challenges, it's easy to imagine something ambitious or time-consuming. But wellbeing isn't built through grand gestures—it's often found in the small things we do regularly. A few minutes spent crocheting, sketching, reading, gardening, baking, journaling, or walking can provide a welcome pause in a busy day. Choose something that feels enjoyable rather than another item on your to-do list. The best hobby is simply one that you look forward to returning to.
Why hobbies are good for wellbeing
They can provide a healthy distraction from stress and worry.
They can help improve mood and increase feelings of happiness and satisfaction.
They create a sense of accomplishment through small, achievable goals.
They can help foster connections with others through shared interests and communities.
They encourage learning, creativity, and personal growth.
They keep our minds active and engaged.
Active hobbies such as walking or gardening can also support physical and mental health
20 Winter Wellbeing Challenge Ideas
Crochet one granny square each day.
Knit a scarf, hat, or blanket during winter.
Read for 20 minutes daily.
Walk every day, no matter the weather.
Complete a daily crossword, Sudoku, or puzzle.
Try a new herbal tea each week.
Learn a new craft or creative skill.
Keep a daily gratitude journal.
Take one photo each day of something that brings you joy.
Cook a new soup recipe each week.
Declutter one small space every day.
Practice mindfulness for 10 minutes a day.
Listen to a wellbeing or learning podcast.
Grow herbs or winter vegetables.
Create something handmade for a friend or whānau member.
Complete a colouring page each evening.
Learn a few new te reo Māori words each day.
Try one new healthy recipe each week.
Follow a stretching or yoga challenge.
Write one note, card, or message of appreciation each week.
And if you'd like to make your challenge even more meaningful, consider sharing your journey with friends and whānau—or even turning it into a fundraiser to support people living with anxiety and other mental health experiences across Aotearoa New Zealand. Learn more about fundraising for Anxiety NZ here.
Would you like more support for Winter Wellbeing? Check out this article: 5 Simple Ways to Support Your Mental Wellbeing This Winter.
The Empowered course is a free, self-paced course from Anxiety NZ to help you and your whānau navigate anxiety with proven strategies and support.
