After a busy, draining day, it’s tempting to reach for your phone and lose yourself in endless scrolling. We’ve all been there, mindlessly scrolling through social media or watching videos, only to end up feeling more tired and disconnected by the end of it. If you’re ready to break free from the cycle of doomscrolling and do something different, here are some things to do instead of scrolling.
This year, I’m challenging myself to find new ways to relax that don’t involve getting lost in my phone. Sometimes, all we need is a little shift in how we spend our evenings to feel refreshed and recharged. So, if you’re looking for some easy, enjoyable hobbies to try when you’re done with the scroll, here are 11 ideas that will help you reset and find peace at the end of your day.
11 Fun Things To Do Instead Of Scrolling
Paint by Numbers
If you’re looking for a calming, creative escape, paint by numbers is a wonderful option. No artistic skills are required—just follow the numbered guide and let your brush do the rest. It’s a relaxing way to unwind after a busy day, and the best part is that you get to see a beautiful piece of art come together without any pressure. This is one of those things to do instead of scrolling when you want to be productive, but you’re too tired to take on something too challenging. It’s a perfect low-energy hobby that still leaves you feeling accomplished.
Create Digital Collages
If you love expressing yourself through visuals but want to avoid getting sucked into the endless scroll of TikTok or Instagram, try making digital collages. Using apps like Canva, you can easily blend together images, quotes, and colors to craft something unique and personal. It’s a creative outlet that doesn’t take up too much energy and can be done in short bursts. If you’re wondering what to do instead of scrolling through social media, this is a great way to channel your creativity without getting lost in the noise of the internet.
Start Knitting or Crocheting
Knitting and crocheting are the perfect slow hobbies to help you unwind. Both activities are soothing and simple, requiring just a little bit of focus while allowing your mind to relax. Whether you’re crafting a scarf or working on a small crochet project, you’ll feel the satisfaction of creating something with your hands. If you’ve been looking for things to do instead of scrolling through social media, this hobby offers a peaceful alternative that keeps you engaged without draining your energy. It’s easy to pick up, and each stitch brings a sense of accomplishment.
Solve Crossword Puzzles
If you’re searching for things to do instead of scrolling through social media, crossword puzzles offer the perfect balance of relaxation and mental stimulation. They’re a gentle way to engage your brain without overwhelming it. Instead of mindlessly scrolling, you get to work through clues and feel a sense of accomplishment each time you crack a word. It’s one of those low-energy hobbies that helps you unwind while still giving your mind a little workout, without the distractions of endless social media.
Try Cozy Video Games
When you’re craving an escape but don’t want to fall into the rabbit hole of TikTok, cozy video games are an ideal option. Games like Stardew Valley or Animal Crossing are easy to pick up and don’t require too much mental energy. They provide a peaceful, slow-paced experience that lets you unwind at your own pace. If you’re wondering what to do instead of scrolling through social media, these games let you immerse yourself in a virtual world without the pressure or rush, making them a perfect choice for a stress-free evening.
Work on a Puzzle
Puzzles are an excellent way to relax after a long day without getting lost in social media. The simple, repetitive act of fitting pieces together can be surprisingly soothing. It’s one of those easy hobbies that you can pick up and put down as you please, giving your mind a break from the constant stimulation of scrolling. If you’re looking for things to do instead of scrolling TikTok or Instagram, working on a puzzle is a great way to unwind and focus on something tactile. Plus, there’s a rewarding sense of completion when you finally finish it!
Explore Calligraphy
If you’re seeking a creative way to unwind, calligraphy might just be the perfect escape. It’s an easy hobby to start with minimal supplies—just a pen, some paper, and a little practice. Over time, you can create beautiful lettering that’s both soothing to the mind and satisfying to the eye. If you’re wondering what to do instead of scrolling social media, calligraphy is a calm, low-energy hobby that lets you express yourself without the digital distractions of TikTok or Instagram.
Master the Art of Origami
Origami offers a peaceful and rewarding way to spend your time without screen overload. All you need is some paper and a bit of patience to fold intricate designs like cranes or flowers. It’s one of those slow hobbies that helps you disconnect from social media while also giving you a sense of accomplishment with each fold. The best part? You don’t need any fancy tools—just your hands and a little time to focus.
Try Candle-Making
Candle-making is an incredibly relaxing craft that allows you to be creative and present in the moment. You’ll get to enjoy the calm process of melting wax, selecting scents, and adding color to create something uniquely yours. It’s one of those things to do instead of scrolling through social media, offering a mindful break that keeps you away from your phone. Once you’re done, you’ll have a beautifully scented candle to enjoy, which is way more rewarding than another scroll through Instagram.
Get into Clay Crafting
If you’re looking for a hands-on hobby that doesn’t require much energy, clay crafting is a great choice. Whether you’re shaping small figurines, beads for jewelry, or decorative items, it’s a creative process that lets you relax and be productive at the same time. It’s one of those easy hobbies that doesn’t demand too much of your focus but still leaves you with a satisfying finished product—much more fulfilling than scrolling through TikTok for hours.
Fold Paper Stars
Folding paper stars is a simple, meditative activity that you can do anytime you need a break from the screen. It’s a wonderful example of things to do instead of scrolling when you want something calming but productive. You can make tiny colorful stars and hang them up as decoration or just fold them for fun. This low-energy hobby is quick to pick up and easy to pause whenever you want to reset—perfect for those moments when you need a screen-free moment of peace.
The next time you catch yourself reaching for your phone out of habit, consider trying one of these slow hobbies instead. You might be surprised at how refreshing it feels to unplug and make something with your hands. There are so many more fulfilling things to do instead of scrolling—why not give one a try?
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