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Hobbies are the ultimate stress relievers. Simply by finding something that we love to do and which we find very interesting, we can release tension and anxiety. Whenever I feel the tension coming on, I have a lot of different relaxing activities to choose from.

Photography

When I purchased a digital camera a couple of years ago, I began to take hundreds of photographs. The dramatically lowered cost of photography freed me to experiment more and to express myself. I particularly enjoyed photographing nature. I took many photographs at my local arboretum. Everywhere I looked I saw a hibiscus, a wishbone flower, or a rose that needed to be preserved for eternity. I photographed sculpture, waterfalls and animals such as squirrels and rabbits. I photographed my children. I strove to create not just ordinary pictures, but works of art.

Reading

Whether I'm reading a book or listening to an audiobook, reading is one of my best ways to relax. I enjoy a wide range of writing, but my absolute favorite is science fiction. Some of my favorite books include Isaac Asimov's Robot Series. Since I'm a Trekkie, I have enjoyed reading many Star Trek novels. I've loved to read short stories in particular. When I was younger I subscribed to Fantasy and Science Fiction Magazine and devoured each issue with relish. I discovered another favorite story in that magazine. Entitled Flowers for Algernon, it was also fleshed out into a full length novel. Written in diary format, Flowers for Algernon details the experiences of a retarded man who has become involved in an experiment to make him smarter. He becomes a genius, but something goes wrong. He spirals downward back into retardation, but now he knows what he's missing.

Writing

My interest in writing began in high school. I took creative writing classes and began work on several science fiction stories. In my late thirties I began writing consistently for Associated Content. Even though I was now being paid to write, I still regarded writing as one of the most pleasurable and interesting activities that I could do. I tremendously enjoyed churning out non-fiction articles on all topics such as holidays, crafts and writing.

Rollerblading

When I rollerblade, I seek out a relatively flat terrain, and then I just sail through the wind. Rollerblading helps me to feel a sense of ultimate freedom. It helps me to forget about all my problems and focus on the moment. There is something almost meditative about rollerblading. I concentrate on each footstep and each breath to keep my mind focused.

Listening to Music

When you're in the mood to listen to music, there are many different kinds to choose from. Vivaldi's Four Seasons or Adagio for Strings by Samuel Barber are the perfect choices to lull me into a state of perfect repose. When I'm more energetic, I love to sing along with rock classics such as Take It to the Limit by the Eagles or Doctor My Eyes by Jackson Browne while I go about my busy day.

Cooking

Cooking is another activity which is pleasurable yet also practical. If I feel stressed out and need a break from the computer, I often get out the mixing bowls and spoons and start assembling a batch of cookies. I create my own recipes which are made with whole wheat flour and healthier sugars and oils. There is almost as much fun in the making as there is in the eating.

There are many other activities and interests that can help you to feel relaxed. Don't rule out what you do for a living, or an activity which makes you money. After all, you should do what you love, and if you can make a living at it, you're lucky indeed.

Learn more about this author, Jennifer Claerr.
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