Why It ’ s Time to Bring Back Trainspotting as a Hobby
by Saffron Alexander
For many of us today, the phrase ‘trainspotting’ conjures up images of that iconic movie starring Ewan McGregor as opposed to the peaceful, and fairly popular, hobby it used to be.
But it could finally be time for the trainspotting revival, as new research reveals it is the latest activity that can be used as a mindfulness technique.
Mindfulness is “a mental state achieved by focusing one’s awareness on the present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting one’s feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations” and is commonly used as a therapeutic technique.
The research, from Premier Inn, has found that trainspotting can be used as a destresser and help to organise our thoughts. Clinical psychologist, Dr Saima Latif, explained how trainspotting can help to clear your thoughts: “Most people associate mindfulness with yoga, however taking up trainspotting can also be a really successful way to embrace this therapeutic process”.
By involving yourself in a pastime that has a clear goal you help to focus the mind on the present task in hand, which in turn helps to focus your thoughts and relieve stress.
The act of spotting trains, noting down their locomotive numbers and either ticking this off or collecting a list can provide a satisfying feeling that comes with accomplishing a goal. This is when the mindfulness benefits are felt as such a task will assist in the process of concentration, attention and memory and also improves emotional functioning.
Dr Latif says there are several reasons why trainspotting is so good for your wellbeing. Trainspotting provides the perfect excuse to be outdoors more and enjoy the dramatic scenery that the UK railway network can provide. There is a plethora of research evidence to show the mental health benefits of being outdoors, not only can this keep us fit and healthy but it can also improve our cognitive processes.
In these modern times, it’s rare to ever be truly disconnected. The constant bombardment of information, from mobile phones to the internet, often hinders mindful thinking as your mind is distracted.
The analogue nature of trainspotting, where all you need is yourself and a pen and a notepad, is yet another reason why the hobby works well as a mindfulness technique.
By removing as many distractions as possible, you’re then able to reach the ultimate goal of mindfulness – focusing on the present moment.
If you choose to spot classic steam trains, this can prompt your mind to focus on an idyllic time in British heritage. Casting your thoughts back to this period of history, free of the stress and strains of modern life, means you have something specific to focus your mind on and this will allow stressful thoughts to drift away.
In order to help people bring back the art of trainspotting, Premier Inn have created a trainspotting hub, providing key information for trainspotting novices on where to start.
(The Telegraph , February 2016)
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