15 Hobbies You Can Start Today!

As we slowly get back to the new normal, it’s time to re discover yourself. Find a hobby that embodies your expression and enjoy the positive benefits that it brings forth.

Most seniors have a lot of free time, yet we spend more than half of it watching TV. Some folks say they are really busy.  Whether you’re busy with your career, spending time enjoying your retirement or engaging in some other activities, there is evidence to show that making time for a hobby can have positive benefits. 

Did you know having a hobby can help you better cope with stress, establish new social connections, boost your mood, and keep you feeling younger? 

Here are some hobbies that contribute to your good health, stimulated mind and give you dollops of the fun quotient:

1. Plant Trees, Plant Flowers Plant A Garden…

Terrace gardening is gaining momentum in places where people don’t have the luxury of their own private garden. Many couples are working with their societies taking to planting fruits, vegetables, and medicinal herbs etc. Of course, you can find any open area (as long as it is allowed) to start gardening. 

Gardening not only involves physical activity and an added benefit of absorption of Vitamin D3 (because you are in the sun for a while), but it also exposes you to knowledge of the varieties of pants that you give life to, it involves you nurturing them and overall, it is one of the top activities for retired and senior people. 

2. Learn to decorate cakes…

 …and become the cupcake queen or take culinary classes and become the cooking king!

3. Pursue photography!

Another popular hobby, photography takes you through the lens of a myriad of experiences. Digital photography allows you to take amazing photos and even create your own Instagram account with little expense. 

4. Learn to refinish wood and restore old pieces of furniture.

This may seem like more of a guy hobby, but many women love restoring furniture, so why not try your hand at it?

5. Join a writer’s group.

Try your hand at poetry or romance novels or any topic and engage you. Writing helps you express yourself articulately whilst sharing your knowledge with others. Contribute to our Seniors Today website, we will be more than happy to publish your work!

6. Pottery Pays off

In India, many people offer pottery classes which range from basic level to professional pottery. There is so much joy to gain when you create works from your own hands and customise them to your taste.

7. Delve into your family history. 

Spend time looking up your family history. Have fun turning those boxes of pictures you’ve been storing into keepsake books for your children and grandchildren. Write a nice caption ( for the photos), or anecdotes to leave behind a memorable legacy for your kids.

8. Paint your heart out!

An excellent creative outlet, painting has been shown to help with goal setting, self- expression, and positivity.

9. Join a dance class.

Any form of dancing is liberating to say the least! It is fun, involves physical activity, social interaction, music and laughter. With dance you just can’t go wrong. (unless you never remember your steps!)

10. Mentor or teach a child.

Take your expertise in a subject and use it to enlighten children. You will be pleasantly rewarded by learning so much in return. 

11. Learn to play a musical instrument. 

The benefits of music can have no bounds. While simply listening to music can reduce stress and pain, playing an instrument can engage multiple senses and help preserve brain function.

12. Volunteer

Try out your volunteer skills. Choose a program, service, or cause that you love and volunteer your time. There’s a win-win with volunteering. 

13. Try knitting and crafts.

While it might not seem like it, this serene hobby can have several relaxing benefits including lowering stress levels, heart rate and blood pressure. Join a crafting group for added intellectual stimulation and social interaction. Look up YouTube for videos that teach these skills free.

14. Take a study course or online class.

You are never too old to learn new things. Why not register for the online course that you’ve been wanting to do for so many months or even years? Or sign up for a course in a hobby close to your heart (tea, coffee, gardening, baking, crafts etc); there’s so much to learn and great enjoyment and fulfilment will be your reward. 

15. Sing!

As Seniors Have Talent has proved, singing is cathartic and fun. You don’t have to be Lata Mangeshkar or Mukesh; you just need the spirit of wanting to sing and enjoying the experience! Besides, you don’t have to take part in competitions, just sing your heart out for yourself, and your loved ones. There are plenty of singing classes you can join as well.

If you have limited mobility…

2020 demonstrated to us that we can do innumerable things without feeling the need to step outside. Though it’s good for you to get some fresh air every day, if you are limited in your mobility, you can take part in online activities and courses, or call friends over for games of chess, scrabble, or cards. And take up that paint brush and add colour to your world!

One of the best ways to stay young at heart is to engage in activities that you really enjoy doing. Plenty of research has been done on the benefits of having a hobby, and its ability to support healthy aging certainly should not be overlooked.