Growing up as an only child, I learned to cherish the quiet moments.
It took me a long, long time to actually enjoy my own company.
I didn’t have siblings to fill the house with noise, so I found comfort in the little things—a good book, a warm cup of hot chocolate, or an afternoon spent playing video games.
I even loved, loved coloring. My father would get me Barbie/Disney coloring books and I would spend hours coloring/painting.
I discovered that life didn’t need to be rushed to be meaningful.
In fact, some of my favorite memories are of those slow, intentional activities that made me feel grounded and peaceful.
I already have another post here on how to live a Studio Ghibli life today.
As I grew older, I realized that this love for quiet hobbies wasn’t just a part of my childhood—it’s become a core part of who I am.
In a world that often pushes us to hustle and accomplish more, I’ve found so much joy in embracing slow living.
It’s not about being lazy; it’s about savoring the present and finding beauty in simplicity.
If you’re someone who loves curling up with a blanket and losing yourself in a cozy activity, this list of 21 hobbies is for you.
These aren’t just pastimes; they’re invitations to slow down and savor life’s little joys. To make it even easier, I’ve included links to kits that I’ve actually bought and completed.
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1. Playing Cozy Board Games
There’s something magical about gathering around a table with a cozy board game and a warm drink.
Games like Wingspan and Calico are perfect for playing with a partner.
They’re relaxing and super cozy.
If you prefer playing online – download Steam (it’s an app that’s available on Mac/Windows) and get the online games. They work beautifully on both systems.
I am a serious gamer (my partner and I collect board games), so I really enjoy playing games.
Now, if you’re like me and love horror, there is Final Girl (there are so many versions) but you can play alone because it’s a 1-player game. I usually play a nice horror music playlist in the background while I play. It increases the suspense and it’s so damn good!
It’s very scary and you can finish a game in 3 hours.
2. Reading Cozy Books
Nothing beats the feeling of curling up with a good book.
If you love witches, check out my list of addictive cozy witch books.
If you love Studio Ghibli, check out my list of books that give off Studio Ghibli vibes.
Whether it’s a heartwarming romance, a charming mystery, or a Studio Ghibli art book, reading can transport you to another world.
3. Watching Studio Ghibli Movies
Studio Ghibli films like My Neighbor Totoro and Kiki’s Delivery Service are the epitome of cozy.
The stunning animation and heartfelt stories remind us to appreciate the small things in life.
4. Building 3D Puzzles
I discovered this on my way to Thailand.
I was always a sucker for normal 2D puzzles. I had no idea these existed. But once I started working on one, I couldn’t stop.
I first bought the bubble tea shop puzzle.
3D puzzles are a delightful way to engage your mind while relaxing.
You can buy anything – a book nook, a library, what not. There are so many different variations, you’ll go crazy.
And I have to add they’re very addictive.
I’ve already purchased this miniature Greenhouse, I can’t wait till it gets here! They all go in my bookcase.
5. Knitting and Crocheting
Knitting or crocheting is the ultimate cozy hobby.
There’s something so satisfying about creating something with your hands, whether it’s a chunky scarf or a delicate blanket.
Here’s a beginner set to get started!
6. Journaling
Pouring your thoughts onto paper is incredibly therapeutic.
This is something I’ve done as a child. I just like writing about my day – especially if I’m reading a good book or I spoke with a close friend.
I never want to forget those good moments, so I record all of them!
Whether you keep a gratitude journal, a bullet journal, or a simple diary, it’s a wonderful way to slow down and reflect.
Now, if you love notebooks, check out my post on 49 ideas to use an old notebook!
7. Baking
The smell of freshly baked cookies or bread is pure comfort.
I love baking chocolate chip cookies (it’s a nice treat), because I know how to make a small batch. I don’t like baking big cakes because it’s just my partner and me.
I even have a lot of Hello Kitty Baking Supplies – you can see this post.
Baking is a creative and rewarding hobby that fills your home with warmth.
8. Gardening
Although I don’t personally do this, my partner’s mum does. And it makes her so, so happy.
She even grows plants for other people and she decided to make it a business. It’s so calming and soothing.
Tending to plants is a meditative and grounding experience.
My partner’s mum gave me this book to help me get started and I found it so helpful so I’m sharing it here.
9. Embroidery
Embroidery combines both – art and relaxation.
Creating intricate designs on fabric is a mindful and rewarding activity. It’s something you can do while listening to music or just having coffee.
It’s so peaceful!
I just bought this kit and I am so excited to get started.
10. Candle Making
Making your own candles lets you customize scents and create a cozy ambiance in your home.
I got this idea from Love Hard – the movie. Knowing that you can recreate any smell just made me feel like this was the perfect hobby to get started with since I love candles!
Here’s a soy candle making kit (with scents).
11. Learning Calligraphy
I had a classmate who was really good at this.
She loved writing so this was a no-brainer for her.
Calligraphy is a beautiful way to slow down and focus on precision and creativity.
Whether for journaling or making cards, it’s an art form that anyone can learn.
Here’s a calligraphy kit for beginners.
12. Painting or Drawing
Express your creativity with watercolors, acrylics, or simple sketching.
Please trust me when I say that you don’t need to be perfect to make this work. I started drawing regularly and now I have my own site where I draw and write for a living – www.straycurls.com
I love drawing and illustrating so much – that I need to work on a drawing project every single week or else my fingers start itching!
It’s a soothing way to spend an afternoon, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist.
I highly recommend going on Domestika and picking up online courses (they’re super cheap) if you want to get started learning.
13. Playing the Ukulele
My partner does this so I wanted to include it.
The ukulele is an easy instrument to learn and has a cheerful, soothing sound.
It’s also very easy to learn.
It’s perfect for relaxing evenings or serenading yourself.
You don’t even have to go to classes, you can just watch YouTube!
14. Doing Yoga
Yoga is a gentle way to move your body while calming your mind.
Because it helps build muscles and improve your overall health – it’s quite literally one of those be-all-end-all activities.
It’s the perfect practice for anyone looking to embrace slow living.
15. Watching Cozy TV Shows
Sometimes, the best way to relax is to watch a heartwarming TV series.
Shows like Anne with an E or The Great British Baking Show are wonderfully comforting.
I also like Schitt’s Creek – I’ve rewatched that 3 times.
16. Listening to Audiobooks or Podcasts
If you love stories but want to rest your eyes, audiobooks and podcasts are a perfect alternative.
Choose cozy genres like gentle mysteries or feel-good conversations.
Check out Amazon Audible, it’s totally worth it.
17. Sewing
Whether you’re making clothes, pillowcases, or small crafts, sewing is a practical and cozy hobby.
This is something I haven’t picked up, but I do remember enjoying it as a child.
18. Stargazing
On clear nights, bundle up and step outside to admire the stars. A telescope or even a simple star map can make this hobby more engaging. Shop telescopes for stargazing.
19. Playing Cozy Video Games
Games like Animal Crossing and Stardew Valley are the digital equivalent of a warm hug.
They’re also very addictive. There you’ve been warned.
They’re relaxing, creative, and perfect for unwinding.
And they’re so damn cute. The graphics are simply adorable, so yummy you want to eat.
20. Puzzles
Classic jigsaw puzzles are a timeless cozy activity.
I am a sucker for 1000 piece puzzles of serene backgrounds because it’s so relaxing.
Choose a design that speaks to you and enjoy piecing it together bit by bit.
21. Making Herbal Teas
Bet you didn’t hear of this one!
I had no idea this existed until quite recently!
Experimenting with blending your own herbal teas is both relaxing and rewarding.
BONUS: Cozy Coloring Books
I love coloring, like I mentioned before.
And you can use copic markers or coloring pencils to color these cozy coloring books!
This is currently my favorite.
You can customize flavors and enjoy a calming cup anytime. Get this tea blending starter kit here.
Final Thoughts
Slow living is about more than just hobbies—it’s a mindset.
It’s about choosing to live intentionally and savoring the beauty in everyday moments.
These 21 cozy hobbies are just a starting point.
I hope they inspire you to carve out time for yourself and embrace the art of slowing down.
Which hobby will you try first? Let me know in the comments below!
