8 Hobbies to Try this Spring

We are going to be in lockdown another month, so why not try your hand at some new hobbies? There is lots we can do while isolating that doesn’t involve Netflix or food after all. Hobbies are a great form of self care, they bring fun and creativity into our lives. This also has the benefit of reducing stress, and can help develop a sense of identity as well. I always encourage friends to find a hobby because life is more than simply work and family life. Hobbies are an important way to crave out time for you, and taking that time for yourself is essential to self care.

Gardening

I’ve already mentioned that one of my goals is to begin gardening, and I think this is a great way to get some sunshine and to rest your mind and relax. Why not start a vegetable garden? Get some easy to grow veggies like peppers, green beans, carrots, radishes, cucumbers and herbs like basil. When I was a little girl, we had a big vegetable garden in our yard, and the fun of picking some fresh veggies and eating them is still a fond memory for me. If growing vegetables doesn’t sound appealing, then plant flowers. There are so many lovely flowers that bloom all summer long and will bring both beauty and peace to your outdoor space. If you live in a condo like me, you can always grow indoors.

Crocheting

You might already know that one of my favourite hobbies is crochet, and I highly recommend you give it a try if you’ve been yearning for a crafty hobby. There is something very soothing about crocheting and it’s truly a relaxing and rewarding hobby. It doesn’t have to cost a ton either, as you can find many good quality yarns that are fairly affordable. Crochet allows you to create lighter, airier pieces and is a stunning way to create lovely shawls and wraps–admittedly, my favourite items to crochet. But you can also make toys, cute baby clothes, home items like coasters or tea cozies, and of course sweaters, scarves and hats.

Photography

This is really one I should get into, especially since I keep hearing that all you need to take great photos is an iPhone and some know how. I’m sure Youtube will teach you some tricks, and there are likely online courses you can take too. Then you can photograph your flowers, vegetables, children, pets, meals and whatever else takes your fancy like a pro.

Calligraphy

This is something I’ve always wanted to try my hand at, and anyone who enjoys writing or art likely understands the draw of calligraphy. It’s useful too if you enjoy making your own cards or paint. You don’t much either, some Youtube videos and some calligraphy pens and possibly a nice notebook, though I’d start with plain computer paper and move up from there. The great thing about this is, you can do this in your backyard at a table and still enjoy the fresh air and sunshine.

Book Club

If you love to read, this is for you. Create a book club with friends, family and set up some rules everyone agrees to in order to guide the group and discussion. Host a book, and this is something that is fun to do over dinner or drinks, but in isolation you hold the book club with Zoom instead of at your favourite restaurant. But have some snacks and drinks too!

Writing

Want to learn to write, whether creatively or not? Now is the time. All you need is a notebook. Buy a pretty one–I certainly would! I recommend writing in a notebook as opposed to the computer because it’s more personal, and there is something about writing with a pen that allows your thoughts to flow and form more freely. Writing is a great way to express your thoughts, de-stress and has so many practical applications. There are also lots of resources you can access to help you in the development of your craft. I personally like The Write Practice which has tons of resources, and is a great community for writers to share their writing.

Cooking

If you’ve been too busy to really experiment with cooking, or need to learn to cook, all you need is your kitchen and some basic ingredients. Try your hand at simple dishes, like pasta and your own sauce, or roasted potatoes and chicken cutlets. There are many wonderful blogs with delicious recipes, so if you are more experienced, try making your own flatbread, or stuffed peppers. Cooking is both rewarding (who doesn’t love a yummy meal?) and a way to be creative. I often feel uplifted when I’m cooking, especially if I’m creating–or trying–something new. Spring is also a great time to try some new, fresh and light recipes.

Cycling

It’s hard to keep as physically active in isolation, but with the warmer weather we can get some of that activity outdoors instead of in our homes. I’m betting that everyone loved riding their bikes when they were kids, and this is a good time to get back into the practice. You can safely bike and maintain social distancing and enjoy yourself too. Riding my bike is one of form of exercise I don’t resent because it is so much fun.

I’ve always truly believed that having hobbies is great for our mood, creative expression and to get away from all the pressures and stress that comes from work and life. Having hobbies kept me sane for a long time, and now that I understand my anxiety better, I enjoy my hobbies so much more. And have more hobbies to enjoy. Hobbies will always be an important part of my self care.

What hobbies do you have? Are you thinking of taking up new ones? I’d love to hear what you’re up to so drop me a comment!