14/02/2026
This Valentine's Day, here's a different kind of love advice and its self-love - find a project. Research shows creative hobbies reduce cortisol and protect your heart.
The weekend is for recovery. But "doing nothing" often means scrolling — which doesn't actually restore you.
What the research shows:
• Creative activities lower cortisol (stress hormone) levels measurably
• A 2024 study found that engaging in hobbies reduces the risk of depression and improves life satisfaction
• Gardening for 30 minutes lowers stress more effectively than reading indoors
• Photography, art, and crafts activate the parasympathetic nervous system — your rest and digest mode
Why projects work for stress relief:
• Flow state — complete absorption in an activity quiets the anxious mind
• Sense of achievement — completion triggers dopamine
• Present focus — you can't ruminate about problems while concentrating on a task
• Tangible results — unlike work stress, you see progress
Weekend project ideas:
• Start a herb garden (even in pots)
• Try watercolour or simple sketching
• Photography walk in your neighbourhood
• Cook something new from scratch
• Organise one space that's been bothering you
I'm Deb from XLR8 Your Health Clinical Nutrition. Setting goals — including creative ones — is part of holistic health. Download our free 2026 Health Plan template, or book a consultation to set your wellness goals for the year ahead.
👉 xlr8yourhealth.com