Healthy Life Tip: Find a hobby that you can immerse yourself in

From Izumi Ponimō’ī

For Izumi Ponimō’ī, that is hula. Hula brings such richness to her life, from opportunities to step forward with courage and gain perspective, to connecting with people she never would have met otherwise. Finding a hobby you love and can dedicate yourself to brings invaluable gifts: joy, plus great emotional, mental, and even physical benefits.

Harvard studies have shown that hobbies improve well-being, lower stress, and even contribute to a longer life. In literature, from Little Women to the writings of Haruki Murakami, hobbies and creative pursuits have long been portrayed as sources of identity, resilience, and healing. [https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/having-a-hobby-tied-to-happiness-and-well-being]

Through hula dance, Izumi regularly pushes herself to chant loudly and sing with spirit while playing ‘ukulele. She feels energized by the regular practice of bravery, and believes that using her voice boldly is one of the keys to staying youthful. As author Elizabeth Gilbert writes, “Create not for applause, but for the simple thrill of making”—something Izumi lives out in every beat of her dance and song. Hobbies, unlike work and other pursuits, are for nothing else but JOY, and for your own living out of an experience.

Izumi says dancing hula keeps her excited about life. “Hula for life!” she exclaims with exuberance. She recommends everyone find a hobby to love and grow with. It can keep you young, engaged, and make for a very rich life.