In the past, I’ve often emphasized the importance of having hobbies in your life. After all, we can’t always work. Hobbies are the play of adults in a lot of ways. But I do know that life is often busy, sometimes so busy we don’t know where the day went and can feel dis-regulated and behind on work or homemaking even though we’ve been busy all day long.
Sometimes these are just busy seasons of life. Sometimes a change in our schedules can allow our days to run more smoothly. Sometimes this feeling might mean we have too much on our plate and maybe need to start saying no to certain things so we have more time at home with our family. And then, sometimes this feeling just means it’s time to give yourself a break. And indulging in a hobby is a great way to take a break from all the responsibilities and relax.
But I know it’s hard for moms and homemakers to indulge in hobbies. Little people want to get in on the action. I’ll never forget the day I took my yoga mat out to do some floor work and my three year old decided he wanted to exercise with me–on my mat! And I wasn’t allowed on it according to him. But that doesn’t negate the fact that we need hobbies to give our minds a break, even if we feel like we don’t have the time. So what are some hobbies that are practical for moms and busy homemakers? I have some suggestions. I hope that these ideas fit into your busy mom life and vocation as a homemaker.
Fibre Arts
I know, I know, I’m always on about crocheting. But honestly, I don’t know where I’d be without this hobby! Working with yarn or thread (I’m getting into embroidery too) requires that you be focused and is a great way to practice mindfulness. I cannot tell you how relaxing it is to work on a simple project and see it progressing along. So if you have ever wanted to learn to knit, crochet, do cross stitch or even spin yarn–now is the time! You can make your little one a blanket, or a hat or a pair of booties. You can make yourself a cute bucket hat or a throw for your bed. These “old fashioned” crafts can provide you both with a break and with a practical finished object that can be used in your home.
I really think this is a good hobby for a homemaker because you can make heirloom pieces that you can pass on to your children. I’m thinking a beautiful blanket or even a family tree you’ve crossed stitched. These pieces can have a functional place in your home, and also be ones that your grandchildren treasure.
And if you need more convincing about the fibre arts, it’s a proven fact knit/crochet is actually good for your mental health.
Colouring/Drawing
But hobbies are supposed to be fun and don’t have to provide us with an heirloom piece. Something like colouring is great for a busy mom and homemaker. I have taken up colouring again myself. I hadn’t worked in my colouring books in years, but I am now returning to it and finding it super soothing. You can colour cute animals or scripture verses or complex geometric patterns. There is something for everyone out there and this is even something you could do with a small child as they also love playing with crayons and colour. I sometimes colour simple images, sometimes I tackle more complex ones. It all depends on my mood.
I’m not into drawing or sketching, but I do know that this would be a great hobby for many. So if colouring isn’t your thing, draw something instead. A cartoon, a still life–whatever inspires you.
Baking
There are of things we can bake and baking is for many a hobby. I’m always blown away by the amazing cakes and cookies I see online. The work that goes into baking and then decorating them isn’t something I necessarily want to do although I do admire it. And if you enjoy decorating cakes and cookies, then I think this is a wonderful hobby because you can really create beautiful baked goods.
But baking can be simple–you can simply make bread or easy recipes like chocolate chip cookies and forget about the decorating portion, which is what I do honestly. I don’t mind baking and sometimes do make something for my family, but I have no desire to tackle decorating, and decorating your baked goods is entirely a personal choice.
Many homemakers bake sourdough bread–it seems to be a trend–and you can could totally tackle that if it interests you. But you could also make bread without tackling sourdough, like making a good old fashioned baguette.
Many people find baking soothing–might be all that measuring you have to do–so this is something to try your hand at as a mom and homemaker. You’d be providing your family with far superior baked goods than those that are store bought.
Gardening
Gardening a great to get yourself outside and moving! Plus, you can grow things like strawberries and peas and other veggies for your family. This is a great hobby for those who love to be outdoors and spending time connected to the earth does a lot of great things for your nervous system too.
I’ve learned that the sunlight and birdsong really help regulate our nervous system and that gardening (which allows you to get your hands dirty) has mood enhancing benefits and reduces stress.
Ifyou prefer growing flowers to veggies, that’s fine too! While providing food for your family is lovely, I personally prefer growing flowers. I love seeing their beautiful colours and making little bouquets for my home. Plus, your flower garden can be an oasis for your children to play in and for you to retreat to whenever you need a break–whether you are working in the garden or not.
And don’t forget–gardening is a great way to get in some extra vitamin D.
Reading
I love reading. And I think it’s totally okay to have a hobby that just for you so if you love reading, or want to read more, just start. Start with a book you really want to read, or one you read and loved in the past. I still read even though I do have a very busy nearly four year old. I might not read as much, but I definitely read several books in a year. I personally love reading the written word and I enjoy gaining knowledge and insight into a variety of topics. I primarily read fiction, but fiction often has backgrounds in history or against topics that allow you to glean some insight into something you might not otherwise have knowledge of.
I am beginning to read a little non-fiction and find that edifying as well. So I try and read a little every day and it’s a hobby I continue to find edifying and enjoyable.
I recommend reading good fiction, something like the classics or The Help by Kathryn Stocker or The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt if you have limited time instead of popular fiction. I love books from all genres, but now that I have limited time, I’m choosing books that are going to stand the test of time rather than fun, popular reads.
Final Thoughts
I hope that one of these hobbies is one that you think can embrace. I know it’s hard for moms and homemakers to find “me time” but having that time for self care is very important. And self care, as I’ve often said, is very important. After all, if you burn out, who is going to be there to do all the things you do for your family? That’s why it’s so important not to give too much. Rest is very important and so is play.
What hobbies do you have? Share in the comments below!