Despite advances in technology or perhaps maybe because of them, many in the world today suffer from stress and stress related illnesses. There is so much noise, information and distraction coming at each of us from every direction that we are simply overwhelmed. Now more than ever it is important to find a way to relieve some of this stress. However, there is wonderful news! There are tons of ways to relieve stress. Do you wonder "do hobbies relieve stress?" If you do, I have an answer for you. Though hobbies as a form of stress relief is nothing new, it is important to choose a hobby that is right for you. Before you find the right hobby, you should think about the following things first: 1. An effective hobby will allow you to escape from responsibilities and obligations that we all have in our lives. Choosing a hobby that adds to your stress is not going to be very effective. As an example, many consider golf to be a hobby. If you are the competitive type you may not be happy unless you are golfing like a pro and this could very well increase your stress level. Another thought is to stay away from any hobbies that will strain your budget. If you are not able to pay for your hobby, it may not help you relieve stress and even have the opposite effect. 2. The finished product is what gives many hobbyists satisfaction. As an example, a gardener can show off their prized rose bush or huge pumpkin, the carpenter could admire a new table. A hobby that will provide a finished product as a result of relaxation will pay off because you can admire the results of your stress relief. Some of the biggest stress relieving hobbies would be woodworking or gardening because you will have a finished product to enjoy. 3. Many will find stress relief from simply stepping outside of the norm. They will learn a second language or learn to sew as a means of relaxation and they may not do those things every day of their lives. When you make yourself a better person you enrich your life which will allow you to have a different perspective should problems arise and will allow them to eliminate unneeded stress. Sometimes we literally juts need to get over ourselves to relieve stress. So in answer to the question, "do hobbies relieve stress?", yes they do in a way. Some hobbies can be more relaxing than others. As with many things you have choices for stress relief, it is just a matter of finding the right hobby that will work for you and relieve your stress.