Analog Hobbies Can Increase Mindfulness

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As we all know by now, spending too much time scrolling and looking at a screen can make you feel anxious and distracted. But when you’re commuting, waiting in line, or just have some downtime  — and your phone is all you have with you — it’s easy to get wrapped up in your screen. 

It’s worth finding alternatives, because scrolling can have negative impacts on your health and productivity. According to a Harvard researcher, scrolling the news constantly or watching a lot of short-form videos (like the ones on Instagram or TikTok) can give you “popcorn brain,” which is when your brain gets overstimulated and it’s hard to adjust back to the real world. 

That’s where a “busy bag” of analog hobbies comes in. Having go-to non-screen activities that I can carry around has made a huge difference in my sense of calm and mindfulness when I’m on the go. 

I’m not alone here — according to Psychology Today, analog hobbies are the biggest self-care trend in 2026. According to the article, analog hobbies like crocheting, reading, and drawing can all help lower cortisol and combat that fight-or-flight feeling. 

The focused attention and repetitive movements needed for analog hobbies can help soothe your nervous system and connect you to the present moment. 

Ready to try out an analog hobby? Here are some ideas to fill your busy bag:

1) Knitting and crochet

My friend Tara Stiles is a yoga instructor and mindfulness expert — and she recently shared the contents of her busy bag! She has a lot of knitting projects. Crochet is another similar option if that’s more your speed. The Woobles have some cute options and I’ve given them as gifts before and they are always crowd pleasers. 

2) A book

Yep — I mean a paperback or hardcover book, not a Kindle (as much as I love mine!). A real physical book just has a different effect than an e-reader. One study found that reading comprehension is six to eight times better with physical books versus e-readers. That’s because it’s harder to speed through a physical book. It’s a more immersive and grounding experience too, since you have the weight of the book in your hands and you need to turn the pages manually.

3) A Buddha Board

This is such a cool product — you paint on the surface with water to draw, and as the water dries, the marks disappear. It’s so calming and really promotes a meditative state. You can check out more information about it here. 

4) Coloring books 

A coloring book is an easy and portable addition to your busy bag. You can get a coloring book with nearly any pattern or theme to fit your interests. Still&Slow has some beautiful monochrome ones if that’s your style. I love my tarot card coloring book – it’s appropriately called “The Tarot Coloring Book” by Theresa Reed! I’ve also given this book as a gift and my friends love it. 

5) Sudoku or crossword puzzles

Depending on whether you’re more of a numbers person or word person, a little book of either sudoku games or crossword puzzles can keep you totally engaged. It’s easy to find pocket-sized versions of these that aren’t too heavy to tote around. And remember to bring a pencil (not a pen, unless you’re feeling really confident!). 

I hope these ideas help inspire your next analog hobby. What’s going in your busy bag? 

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BONUS FREEBIE: Want even more ways to stay organized, productive and less stressed? CLICK HERE to get access to my List-Making Starter Kit. It will boost your efficiency and get you back to doing more of the things you love.

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