The Physical and Social Benefits of having a Hobby
Not only will the social element of a hobby fight isolation, there’s also research that shows that a hobby that involves exercise can offer a variety of mental benefits, including:
• Boosting self-esteem: Exercise can improve how we feel about ourselves
• Improving mood: Exercise releases chemicals in the brain that make us feel happier
Of course, the physical benefits of getting regular exercise come hand in hand with a hobby like golf or Tai Chi. “The more we move around, the longer we live,”
What is the right hobby…?
There’s no one “right” hobby — the options are endless. While a hobby involving exercise may be a smart choice, it’s not necessarily an option that everyone will enjoy. The key is to challenge yourself while doing something that is enjoyable.
For some older men, rekindling a childhood interest like baseball stats or car racing may be interesting. For others, this could be an opportunity to try something new.
While there may be some trial and error involved, keep in mind that many hobbies come with a price tag. For example, golf can be expensive over the course of a year. Look for senior’s discounts and keep your budget in mind when exploring a new hobby.
Remember that not all hobbies cost money. Some of the most rewarding activities may involve volunteering in your community or even mentoring youth — leading Scouts can give seniors an opportunity to share knowledge and life skills, interact with other people and give back to the community.
So, no matter what it is you end up deciding to do, the point is to do something! If you don’t already have a hobby, then make it a point to pick up a new interest today!!
Make cooking fun for yourself.
Paint something beautiful.
Games
Puzzles
Walking
Dancing
Gardening
Take a Class – In anything…
Senior Centers- Call them to see what’s up!!
Or bust out an adult colouring book.
Become a documentary buff.
Start a club with your friends.
Take up hiking.
Try your hand at calligraphy.
Start taking photos with a real camera.
Embroider everything.
Join a community sports league.
Send physical letters to people.
Travel – Local or around the world
Volunteering
There are thousands of charities and civic organizations crying out for helping hands. People, like you, with valued experience and time to make changes happen are always in need.
Exercise
Teach
Reconnect with Family
Volunteer opportunities include:
• Hospitals
• Tax preparation help
• Nursing home visits
• Community events
• Library helper
• Museum or music hall docent
• Tourist attractions
Now to get started, try this:
Enroll in online classes.
Or sign up for a class in a classroom setting
Give yourself weekly challenges.
But for sure these are things……. “Not to do!!”
Enjoy, but Don’t Be Undisciplined
Don’t Immediately Downsize Your Home
Don’t Blow Your Savings
Don’t Neglect Your Estate Planning
Don’t Expect Relationships to Remain Unchanged
Don’t Be Afraid to Try New Things
Don’t Let Loneliness Creep into Your Life
Don’t Neglect Your Appearance
Don’t Give Up on Love and Romance
Don’t Be Impatient and Go Easy on Yourself
Relaxing
It is not necessary or even desirable, to be active all the time. You can set your own schedule and do as you please. Set time out of your day to sit back and relax. After all, you have worked hard. Take time for yourself and enjoy the quiet of the day.
Finally, Celebrate Life!
Now is the time to do the things you love. Figure out which activities make you the happiest, make a list, and dive in. Don’t be afraid to explore new activities, especially if it’s something you have always wanted to do. Enjoy your time as an independent senior and let the good times roll!