Look, we get it, trucking isn’t an easy job. It requires long hours away from home and your loved ones. It’s sitting for hours on end, it’s deep concentration on the road ahead, the conditions, other vehicles – it’s making deadlines, and keeping good records. It’s listening for anything that sounds off in your rig. In such a demanding role, it’s vital to have hobbies to help you relieve stress and unwind. Below, we’re diving into some hobbies that are perfecto for truckers who want to relax, as well as the mental health benefits associated with them, and ways you can make time in your busy schedule to prioritize your de-stressing hobbies.
Reading
Reading is an excellent way to unwind after a long day on the road. It is a great way to escape from the stress of the job and transport yourself to another world. Reading can also improve mental health by reducing anxiety, improving brain function, and promoting relaxation.
A great way to make time for reading, is to consider listening to audiobooks during long drives or breaks, or even downloading e-books on your phone or tablet to read during downtime. Need some suggestions to get you started? Check out our blog post on The Best Audiobooks to Hit the Road With.
Meditation
Meditation is a practice that involves focusing your mind on a particular object, thought, or activity to achieve a mentally clear and emotionally calm state. It can be done anywhere and at any time, making it an ideal hobby for truckers.
Meditation has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and improve overall mental health. Even just a few minutes of meditation each day can make a significant difference. Find a few minutes before you begin your haul, or at the end of a haul. You can do it anywhere, so find ways to be mindful while fueling up, or when you’re taking breaks.
Exercise
Exercise is one of the best ways to relieve stress and improve mental health. It can help reduce anxiety and depression, improve sleep, and increase overall well-being. Even just a short walk or a few stretches during a break can make a big difference.
Even short breaks are a great time for exercise, consider taking breaks to stretch or walk around the truck stop, or packing a small exercise equipment in the truck. Resistance bands take virtually no room and will give you a good workout. A few small weights or a kettlebell will also stash pretty easily in the cab for a workout wherever you are. If you want to get extra creative or boost the fun factor, you can pack a bike or a pair of skates and set off to explore a new area.
Painting and Drawing
Painting and drawing are excellent hobbies that can help truckers unwind and relax. These activities can be done anywhere and require minimal supplies, making them ideal for truckers.
Artistic hobbies have been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and improve overall mental health. They also allow for self-expression and creativity, which can boost mood and provide a sense of accomplishment. Keep a sketch pad with you at all times, or keep paints in your cab, that way, you’re ready to let the creative juices flow as soon as the wheels stop turning.
Writing
Writing is another hobby that can help truckers reduce stress and improve mental health. Journaling or writing about personal experiences or thoughts can help relieve tension and increase self-awareness.
To make time for writing, consider taking a few minutes each day to jot down thoughts and feelings, or creating a blog or social media account to share your experiences with others.
Not only do these hobbies provide an opportunity for truckers to take a break from the demands of their job, but they also offer a chance for self-expression, creativity, and personal growth. With the right hobby, truckers can improve their mental health, reduce stress, and ultimately lead a happier and more fulfilling life. So, take the time to explore different hobbies and find the one that resonates with you the most. Your mind and body will thank you for it!
