Therapist-Approved Hobbies & Activities for Managing Anxiety in Utah
Anxiety can feel all-consuming, like a buzzing background noise that never quite turns off. If you’re looking for ways to manage anxiety outside of therapy, Utah has plenty of great options to help calm your nervous system, reconnect with yourself, and actually enjoy life instead of overthinking it. As an anxiety therapist in Utah, I often recommend incorporating hobbies and activities that naturally regulate the nervous system. Here are five of my top picks!
1. Hiking & Nature Walks
Utah’s landscapes are basically a free anxiety mangement tool. Whether it’s a quick walk around Sugarhouse Park or a full-day adventure in Big Cottonwood Canyon, spending time in nature lowers cortisol (the stress hormone) and gives your brain a break. Fresh air and movement? A natural anxiety antidote.
2. Yoga & Meditation
You don’t have to be a pro at deep breathing to benefit from yoga. Places like Salt Lake Power Yoga and Maven Strong offer classes ranging from gentle and restorative to high-energy flows. Yoga helps regulate your nervous system, while meditation strengthens the part of your brain that keeps anxiety in check.
3. Pottery & Art Classes
Anxiety often stems from feeling stuck in your head. Getting your hands busy with something creative—like throwing pottery at Red Kiln Clay Center or taking an art class at Art Hause—can be a game-changer. Bonus: These activities are low-stakes, making them great for perfectionists who need to practice letting go.
4. Cold Plunges & Hot Springs
Cold exposure can help retrain your nervous system to handle stress. While research on cold plunges is still limited, we do know that quick changes in temperature can shift nervous system states. Try a DIY cold plunge at The Great Salt Lake or ease in with warm mineral water at Fifth Water Hot Springs. Plus, nothing is more relaxing than a spa day—treat yourself to a session at Glow Sauna Studios for sauna therapy and heat contrast benefits.
5. Community & Support Groups
Anxiety thrives in isolation, so finding a supportive community can be life-changing. Groups like Forward Healing’s Self Help Bookclub or joining a local running club can help build social connections—without the pressure of forced small talk.
Finding the Right Anxiety Therapist in Salt Lake City
While hobbies and activities can be great tools for managing anxiety, sometimes you need deeper support. If anxiety is making it hard to enjoy your life, therapy can help you get unstuck and build long-term coping skills. As an anxiety therapist in Salt Lake City, I help women navigate anxiety, perfectionism, and big life transitions.
Looking for an anxiety therapist in Utah? Let’s chat! Click here to schedule a consultation.