02/13/2026
When was the last time you learned a new skill or started a new hobby? Today’s is about the benefits of lifelong learning. I love learning new skills. It keeps life interesting and opens one’s mind to new ideas. In the last couple of years, I studied ASL (American Sign Language) and herbalism. As a massage therapist, we need to take continuing education to maintain our professional license. Researchers say hobbies — such as arts and crafts, games, gardening, cooking, volunteering, or participating in clubs — involve creativity, sensory engagement, self-expression, relaxation, and cognitive stimulation. These are linked to good mental health and well-being. Plus, taking part in hobbies keeps you socially connected, which helps reduce loneliness and isolation.
Learning new skills like a different language or CPR, can be beneficial to you as well as your community. Developing new skills like this boosts our self-esteem, as we feel good at something, and give us the “success” hormones of dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphins, which make us happier. They reduce our stress, give us a sense of purpose, and give us pride.
As we age, the process of learning something new also plays an important role in maintaining neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to absorb information and evolve to new challenges. In the event of a traumatic brain injury or strokes, neuroplasticity can help the brain reprogram itself to heal.
Get out there and find some new hobbies or skills!