In the hustle and bustle of the modern world, having a hobby may seem like a frivolous pursuit.

Add children into the mix and it gets considerably more difficult, as your to-do list grows infinitely.

Of course, you’ll also inevitably find yourself making your child’s hobbies a priority, too.

Woman painting pottery

But hobbies aren’t just for kids; they’re actually a must for adults.

Moreover, having a hobby can also boost your physical and mental health.

Simply put, it’s a must, particularly if you’re feeling the strain.

Woman doing yoga

While those pursuits are obviously worthy, they can’t be our only focus.

On a physical level, hobbies cause reactions in our bodies that result in better health overall.

This, in turn, causes fewer incidences of diseases developing.

Woman using headphones on the floor

Hobbies, whether they’re physical or mental pursuits, can also affect a person’s fitness.

People with hobbies were found to have a lower body mass index and smaller waists.

Leisure activities also help lower blood pressure and improve sleep.

Woman taking a photo

Those two factors alone help prevent people from developing more severe health problems in the long run.

Lack of sleep in itself can cause heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and stroke (viaU.S.

Department of Health and Human Services).

High blood pressure, meanwhile, increases the risk of cardiovascular issues.

“Being engrossed in a hobby brings you into this state.

And, ultimately, you need a balance of both.”

Spending time in “being mode” helps us recharge and destress.

However, starting a new hobby can help alleviate feelings of depression and anxiety.

Perhaps you loved to dance, draw, paint, sing, or do puzzles.

It doesn’t matter whichhobby you choose as long as it makes you happier.