This super relaxing hobby will literally lower your heart rate

Most of us have been through multiple hobbies since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. In the early months of the pandemic, bread-baking photos became the new vacation photos Instagram.

It was so popular it even created a yeast shortage in the US. Other hobbies like at-home exercises such as yoga and meditation were up, as well as crafty activities such as painting and reading, according to recent studies.

People mostly resorted to these once-forgotten hobbies as a way to distract themselves in what was expected to be a shorter quarantine. But as the colder months begin to make their way into our calendars, crafts and hobbies will once again become an outlet to manage anxiety and stress, as well get people through the trying times of COVID-19.

If you’re still trying to find the right hobby for you (and one that can help make you feel more relaxed), a recent study might just have the answer for you.

Grab some yarn and some needles and knitting could just be exactly what you need to relax you through the winter months. Hobby website DIYS.com found that knitting measured the lowest heart rate and was voted as the most relaxing hobby by 93% of British citizens. Knitting measured at 65 beats per minute, for an average heart rate decrease of 18.75%, according to the study.

The study, which polls more than 350 people, asked participants about their hobbies and had them wear a Fitbit while completing several hobbies that were tallied based on hobby responses from participants. Data was tracked over the course of several weeks, according to the study.

“Lockdown had proven that we’re more than capable to take up new and exciting hobbies, causing a spike. A study by Psychological Sciences Professor, Matthew J. Zawadski at the University of California, found that engaging in a mentally stimulating hobby reduces stress levels,” the team said, per Country Living.

White knitting had the largest decrease in average heart rate, fishing was a surprising second. While it might be difficult to fish during the colder months, fishing had an average heart rate of 72 beats per minute and a decreasing heart rate average of 10%. It’s an interesting hobby that can be done either alone or in small groups, which can be perfect for social distancing. On top of that, the benefits of nature can also be very soothing.

The third-most relaxing hobby was blogging. While the Internet and social media can be a cesspool at times, it turns out that writing online can decrease your resting heart rate by 7.5%. It averaged 74 beats per minute and ranked as the sixth most popular hobby by respondents.

Calligraphy also ranked third.

Other activities like baking and cooking appeared on the list, as well as physical activities such as hiking, running, biking, and even golf.