The Healing Power of Hobbies and Pastimes: Pastime Perks

Pastime Perks At last count, Debbie Baker had 3,000 Barbie dolls. Her passion may seem odd, but experts agree: Being an enthusiastic hobbyist is good for you. Hobbies reduce stress, says Alice Domar, director of the Mind/Body Center for Women's Health at Harvard Medical School. They distract you from everyday worries: If you're focused on the pottery you're making, you can't fret about work, says Domar. And knitting, or anything requiring repetitive motion, elicits the relaxation response, a feeling of overall serenity, marked by lowered blood pressure.

Hobbies provide a calming sense of control, says Domar, and research suggests this strengthens immunity. You may have little say at work, but when you're woodworking, you're in charge. You get the credit -- and satisfaction -- of a job well done.