Embracing Joy: Coping with AiArthritis Through Hobbies

Dancing, Reading, and Cooking Cheryl finds joy in dancing, reading, spending time with her puppy, and cooking. These activities not only keep her active but also provide a sense of normalcy and happiness.

Writing and Creativity Dedra loves writing, which she finds particularly comforting when she's relaxing on the couch. It's a great way for her to express herself and stay mentally engaged.

Artistic Pursuits Rheum2cre8art enjoys watercolor painting, a soothing and expressive outlet for creativity. Meanwhile, mtnkat79 finds solace in listening to books or news while working on decoupage, knitting, crochet, upcycling, and restoring furniture.

Physical Activities For gatorgirrrl, cross stitch and pool exercise are the go-to activities, while bionicquilter prefers reading on an e-reader to avoid straining her hands and wrists. Theerincoleman stays active by walking daily with her dog and doing weight training twice a week with a personal trainer who tailors the program to her needs.

Yearning for Water Sbriesh wishes for access to a pool, recognizing that water exercises make movement much easier and less painful.

Crafting and Gardening Noraandediebooks enjoys reading, needle felting, and making miniatures, while w.koski13 finds peace in gardening. These hobbies help them stay connected to their passions despite the challenges of arthritis.

Cooking, Baking, and Outdoor Activities Many find solace in cooking, baking, gardening, and simply being outside. Brittany Murray enjoys puzzles and volunteering for AI arthritis, which is fulfilling even during flares.

Staying Mentally Active Kerry Goldsworthy highlights the importance of mental engagement, noting that even when physical hobbies are impossible, writing remains a powerful outlet. Similarly, Becky Rodriguez finds joy in disability-related movies and soundtracks.

Low-Impact Hobbies Stephanie Schmid-Falcon balances physically demanding hobbies like gardening with low-impact activities such as reading, documentaries, and podcasts.

Swimming and Meditation Amy Millios emphasizes the benefits of swimming, reading, mindfulness meditation, and caring for her cats. Fiona Mann finds horseback riding a great way to stay active and socialize.

Tech and Gaming Autumn Despotis enjoys playing mindless games on her phone, which helps distract from pain. Sarah Price finds happiness in crochet, while Kathleen Lane enjoys quizzing, singing, and swimming.

Social and Outdoor Activities Ashley Lanclos loves spending time outside and practicing yoga, and Cynthia Cole Hart volunteers, bakes, and scrapbooks. Dennis Chamberlin enjoys low-impact frisbee tossing, and Rachel Herford practices yoga.

Crafts and Learning Mary Wright quilts and embroiders, while Lisa Hawkes has started highland dancing. Jessica Bowman Boles finds peace in yoga and meditation.

Reading and Exploring Laura Wohl Torchinsky enjoys reading, arts and crafts, trivia nights, and swimming. Peta Gourlay loves reading, and Michele Alexander is still searching for the perfect hobby. Gina Mastroantonio relies on music and podcasts when her body doesn't cooperate.