Tough day at work? These creative hobbies require little energy and help you unwind

Do you flop down on the couch for a Netflix session after work because you lack the energy to be creative? Then try one of these creative hobbies that require little energy. Your mind will thank you.

You know you’d feel more fulfilled with a creative evening, yet you still turn on Netflix for a binge session after a long workday. Later, you regret it because your mind still hasn’t found rest. Sound familiar? Maybe it’s time to try a low-key creative hobby—one that doesn’t require too much thought (knitting is great, but following a complicated pattern when you’re already tired isn’t) and helps you relax.

A creative hobby is good for your brain

According to Tiffany C. Ho, an assistant professor of psychology at the University of California, creative hobbies are excellent for your mental health. She mentions this in an article for Real Simple. Not only do they boost your mood, but by creating something with your hands, you also get a dopamine hit. This hormone makes you feel satisfied and rewarded. Additionally, working with your hands can calm you down, especially if you struggle with depression, anxiety, or burnout. In a way, these creative hobbies are the new yoga, as the repetitive movements have a meditative effect. Interested in trying a low-key activity? Here are a few suggestions.

5 creative hobbies that require little energy

Meditative coloring
This is a form of coloring where you focus on the activity itself rather than the end goal. For example, you can draw the same patterns repeatedly, color in a mandala, or create a zentangle coloring page.
Watercoloring in a workbook
There are workbooks available that show you how to draw a specific figure and then color it in with watercolors. All the steps are clearly outlined, so you don’t have to think about what to create. A low-key way to enjoy watercoloring.
Needle felting
In needle felting, you press pieces of felt wool into a fabric. You can create 3D shapes like small felted toys or even embroider with it. Check out this TikTok video to see the hobby in action.
Sumi-e
This Japanese brush art involves making minimalist brush strokes on paper. The repetitive movements make it a meditative hobby. You can see how it works in this TikTok video.
Diamond painting
With diamond painting, you “color” an image by placing shiny stones in the right spots. It’s a bit like paint-by-numbers, but more 3D. With this technique, you can create colorful coasters or mini paintings.