The Glossed Over Blog

Ways to reduce screen time and improve brain function 

I have seen many people on social media and in real life confessing that they need a hobby. Personally I think the Glossed Over girls have more than enough hobbies. Both Krys and I always keep ourselves busy with something. This is a perfect opportunity to share some of the hobbies that I have tried and would recommend. It’s fun to remind yourself of your creativity and do something more with your hands than typing on a screen. Hobbies can also be a way to create social connection. Having craft nights with my friends in college is my favorite weekend activity. Here are 6 ideas to help inspire your next obsession.

1. Photography

One of my favorite things to bring around is my digital camera. It’s small enough to fit in any bag and it elevates any photo. I bring it to any outing I go to and it’s a fun way to capture moments that will last forever. I even took it a step further and bedazzled it with my friends to give it more personality. These photos set you up for fun collages and pictures to add into your scrapbook. I have the Sony Cyber-shot WX100. It is an investment but it is one of my favorite possessions.

2. DIY & Craft Projects

Finding some easy crafts are great ways to pass time. I find lots of my inspiration from Pinterest.  I am currently making a continuous scrapbook from my memories in college. Between semesters I have been finding ways to use my pictures, tickets, scraps, etc. and collaging them together. I want to have more physical memories from college to reflect on other than social media. At home crafts can be a good way to use memorabilia in an aesthetic way. Linked below is a Pinterest board I created to spark some inspiration.

• Craft Pinterest board
  

3. Yoga

I personally find lots of peace taking time out of the day to move my body. Growing up doing intense sports, yoga felt like a treat to my body. The best part about yoga is it can be as extreme or relaxing as you want. Finding the perfect yoga flow for you takes time, but it is so worth it when you do. Stretching your body has so many benefits; mental clarity, injury prevention, reduces stress, etc. You can find yoga videos to do at home on YouTube for free!

4. Hiking or Nature Walks

Living in the area I’m from, we are blessed with amazing walking/biking trails almost anywhere. Getting outside and listening to a good playlist or podcast to move your body is an amazing way to pass time. Going for a walk can boost your mood, improve your heart health, connect you with nature, etc. This is also a good time to unplug and reconnect with nature. Listening to birds chirp will be your new favorite sound.

5. Reading

I have phases where I get really into reading and phases where reading seems like another homework assignment to do. Right now I am in a heavy reading phase. I enjoy reading because it keeps my brain stimulated and engaged (if it’s a book I’m interested in), also reduces my stress and improves my focus. Because I am a broke college student, I have been finding ways around buying books. I have been renting digital books through the library and using my Ipad as a kindle. I mainly tried this when I was traveling abroad but I ended up enjoying reading on my Ipad. I also have been borrowing physical books from my friends. But this is your reminder to use your free services through your local library and/or school library!

6. Card or board games 

In high school, my friend group always brought cards with us anywhere we went. Any chance we had with each other we would play nertz, speed, shampoo or any new game we got our hands on. I also grew up in a very competitive family and game nights were always very loud and ended with great memories. One of my recent favorite games is called ‘The Game’, I have been bringing it everywhere I go. Games are also beneficial for critical thinking skills, problem solving, enhancing memory, etc. Finding fun games that everyone will love creates great memories. 

I challenge you to try something new this week and reflect on how you felt doing this new hobby. Enjoy the process and progress you are making by trying something new. It’s okay to explore and find out that a hobby is not your cup of tea, that is all part of the journey. I hope we can get back to a society where obsessions and hobbies are something everyone can relate to. 

♡ Hattie