321: 9 Cool Girl Hobbies That Will Drastically Improve Your Life (Flashback Friday)
#321: For years, we've been taught that every free moment should be spent optimizing ourselves—but what if the real glow-up comes from doing something simply because you love it? Josie shares nine "cool girl hobbies" that are not only fun and fulfilling, but are also backed by research to improve your mental health, physical well-being, creativity, and longevity. These hobbies can help regulate your nervous system, improve your fitness, build community, boost your brain health, and remind you that your life is meant to be enjoyed—not just optimized. Whether you're searching for a new hobby, healing from hustle culture, or simply craving more joy in your everyday life, this episode will inspire you to romanticize your free time and create a life that feels as good as it looks.
You'll learn:
Why hobbies are one of the most underrated keys to happiness and longevity
The surprising health benefits behind 9 trendy "cool girl" hobbies
How to reconnect with creativity, play, and presence
Which hobbies can improve brain health, posture, community, and stress resilience
Why joy is productive—and how to make more room for it in your life
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CHAPTERS:
00:20 - Why hobbies are the ultimate life upgrade
03:00 - Ballet: the “it girl” workout
05:15 - Gardening for happiness, purpose & gut health
06:50 - The surprising benefits of making sourdough
08:45 - DIYing everyday essentials
11:20 - Why racquet sports may boost longevity
16:45 - Learning a new language for brain health
18:40 - Crocheting & knitting as moving meditation
21:15 - Using vision boards to prime your mind
24:25 - Why reading is the greatest life hack
31:05 - The most important hobby: doing things just for joy
RESOURCES & MENTIONS:
Ballet Beautiful — ballet-inspired online workouts, specifically mentioned as an option for getting started.
Preply — online language tutors.
Once Upon a Time: The Captivating Life of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy
CONNECT WITH JOSIE:
Follow @josie.santi
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