Ep 42: What makes hobbies healing?

Ep 42: What makes hobbies healing?

August 18, 2025 · 20 min · Episode 42

About this episode

This episode explores unconventional therapeutic activities and their psychological benefits.

In this episode of PsychCrunch , Tabby Taylor Buck delves into the world of unconventional therapeutic activities, guided by the latest psychological research and insights from practitioners in the field. She explores how innovative approaches are reshaping what therapy can look and feel like. Tabby begins with a spot of climbing therapy, and then turns to the imaginative world of structured roleplay, as Dr. Sören Henrich discusses the therapeutic potential of Dungeons & Dragons . Next, Professor Jo Williams offers insight into animal-assisted interventions, shedding light on the psychological mechanisms that underpin them. Finally, the conversation plunges into cold water. Professors Mark Wetherell and Mike Tipton discuss the psychological and physiological impact of cold water swimming, exploring how cold water immersion may help with stress adaptation and improve mood. Throughout the episode, Tabby and her guests explore a central question: Are these diverse interventions tapping into unique mechanisms, or are they all accessing shared core ingredients that promote psychological wellbeing? This is Episode 42 of PsychCrunch, the podcast of the British Psychological Society's…

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Host: Tabby Taylor Buck

Guests: Dr. Sören Henrich, Professor Jo Williams, Professors Mark Wetherell, Mike Tipton

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Organizations: British Psychological Society

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