It’s easy to lose yourself in being a mom but taking time out for your interests and pleasure will make you a better mom. Enjoying something you love can lower stress, increase happiness, and improve your sleep and life satisfaction.  

Hobbies can bring us so much joy, and they make us feel alive, ignite our passion for life and help us feel excited to wake up in the morning. Hobbies also make us more attractive to others while keeping our own life interesting.  

Unlike watching tv or social media, hobbies can ignite a spark, so you lose yourself in the moment, experiencing flow, a key element of happiness. Hobbies create energy, meaning and purpose and lead to a greater sense of fulfilment.  

Finding time to do what you enjoy is essential for your mental health. Research shows that doing something you love can ward off or lower levels of depression.  

Hobbies are very personal. What ignites someone else’s passion may feel like a chore to you, so keep an open mind and think of things that make you feel excited, alive and energised.   

We reached out to our mom community to check what hobbies they do to keep them sane, and the responses were fascinating. I was amazed at the unique and exciting things people do, including keeping marine aquariums, making kokedama balls, showing dogs, hot air ballooning and dragon boating.  

One member advised me she does The Conquerer Virtual Challenges, where you walk, run, swim, or ride through global virtual challenges. You can make the Inca trail, swim the English channel, complete the Athens marathon or climb Mount Everest.

Most challenges have street views. For more information, visit The Conqueror

It’s incredible what a diverse community we have. I have only listed the hobbies highlighted by our community below; however, there are many more options. I am sure you will find something you love. 

Note: If you feel like everything is a chore at the moment, start with a few small things to get you out of your slump first. Try putting your favourite song on and dancing to it, or savouring the wonderful feeling of water running over you in the shower. 

You can also try a scenery change, such as having dinner at your local park and playing tag with the kids.  

No matter what, be kind to yourself.  

What is a Hobby?  

We do a hobby during leisure time out of personal interest that we find enjoyable. Hobbies usually involve learning a new skill, gaining knowledge and having fun.  

And remember, experimenting to find what you like can also be fun! Pick a few that stand out, and write a bucket list if you are unsure. You can tick each one off after you have tried it.   

Why are Hobbies Important?  

Hobbies can help you cope with stress. While you immerse yourself in a pleasurable activity, you become fully involved in the task. Losing yourself to a task and being in complete absorption allows you to let the past and the future go to savour the moment.   

As you partake in new activities, you will discover things you are good at and uncover hidden talents. You might surprise yourself with your newfound skills.  

Besides your children or baby, having something to focus on will relieve the boredom some moms feel at home. It’s easy to waste time on social media or TV, but if you want to feel fulfilled as a stay at home mom, a hobby will nourish your soul, leaving you inspired and recharged.   

When I think about the people I have encountered in my life, who are the happiest with joy radiating from their smiles, it’s usually the volunteers, bakers, sportspeople, knitters, artists, or people who feel passionate about something.  

And hobbies can make you money too. Hobbies like writing, sewing, knitting, weaving, baking, cake decorating, graphic design, programming, performing, tattooing, DIY’ing, digital scrapbooking and more can make extra money.  

Creative Hobbies  

Writing  

Of course, my first recommendation is my very own hobby – writing. Interestingly, I should be writing this post tonight as I have recently had major surgery and haven’t been able to write for several months.  

As I tap away at the keyboard, a large pot of tea beside me and Lana Del Ray piping through the sound system, I can feel my cup filling as I remember how much I love this and how wonderful it is to feel like I’m back.  

Even when I have writer’s block, I love to write as it’s my creative outlet, and as I research new subjects, I learn. Words seem to provide comfort, and I hope they offer inspiration, encouragement and hope. My writing gives me a sense of purpose.   

Knitting   

Knitting is easy to learn, and you only need a few knitting needles and some wool to start. Although it is easy to learn, it can take years of practice to master all the different knitting techniques.

Seeing your children and family wearing your homemade eco-friendly items is gratifying. You can find a mindfulknits beginners knitting kit here to get you started.  

Crocheting  

Crocheting is very similar to knitting, it’s inexpensive and easy to learn, and you can make many things, including clothes, homeware and toys. Crocheting is an easy way to relax and be mindful; you just need some wool and a hook. You can find a beginner’s crochet kit here to get you started.  

Weaving  

You can try several different types of weaving, and the designs and patterns available are stunning. Weaving will help you unleash your creativity.

Weaving is similar to knitting and crocheting in that you can stop and start when you have time. One of the most accessible weaving techniques is using a loom, and you can find a weaving loom here to get you started.  

Sewing  

Sewing is a fun and rewarding hobby that can save and make you money. You can either sew by hand or use a machine, and creating patterns and items is easy.

Hand sewing only requires a needle, thread, and perhaps a thimble to protect your fingers. For faster and more advanced stitching, you can use a sewing machine, and you can find a beginner’s sewing machine here to get you started.  

Drawing  

drawing is a very accessible hobby that requires nothing more than a pencil, sharpener, eraser and sketchbook. Finding an image and setting yourself the goal of perfecting it can be incredibly satisfying.

Drawing is therapeutic and relaxing while using imagination, technical skills and critical thinking. This drawing set has everything you need to put you on the road to success. Click here to view.

Calligraphy  

Calligraphy is visual art that requires focus and concentration and only requires a pen and some paper to start. Learning to create beautiful lettering is great for mindfulness as you slow down and focus on the task.

To learn calligraphy, you will need good attention to detail, patience and a willingness to learn. You can learn the standard styles and invent some of your unique styles.

Although it is unnecessary, as you can use any felt tip pen, I recommend investing in a few calligraphy pens to get you started.  

Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV)  

You can use Heat Transfer Vinyl to custom t-shirts, hats, socks, shoes, belts, purses, totes or anything that can withstand the heat. HTV may seem like an intimidating hobby, but it’s super easy.

Vinyl is applied to fabric with a heat press to create a permanent adhesion to the material. You will need the HTV, a vinyl cutter and a heat press.  

Quilting  

Quilting is super easy and a fun and creative way to pass your time. Depending on your preference, you can quilt by hand or use a machine.

Some people love to hand sew, whereas others find it tedious, so this is a personal preference. You can handpick quilting squares or buy pre-matched sets such as these. 

You will need a few things to get you started, such as pins, needles, batting, fabric and a sewing machine if you use one. I recommend you start with a small project first.  

 

Scrapbooking  

Scrapbooking is an excellent hobby for a stay at home mom. Making a beautiful personalised keepsake for your children is something they will cherish forever.

You can find scrapbooking templates online to suit the theme of your book or start with a DIY scrapbook photo album kit such as this one. 

Digital Scrapbooking  

Digital scrapbooking allows you to create a scrapbook without the mess of glue and scissors. Like scrapbooking, digital scrapbooking will enable you to add all your design elements such as borders, graphics, design and text using graphic design software.

You can keep your digital scrapbook online or print it out to make a lovely keepsake. Once you have printed your scrapbook out, you can continue to add to the design elements with traditional scrapbooking techniques, using tape, ribbons, buttons, stickers, flowers and more. Digital scrapbooking can even be done via your phone, making it a very convenient hobby.  

Diamond Dots  

Diamond dots is a craft that allows you to make beautiful shimmering designs using small coloured dots. There are many different patterns and designs to choose from, and you can frame your art at the end.

Kits range from beginner to advanced, so you can work your way up to more challenging projects. You can buy a kit here to get you started.  

Embroidery  

Embroidery is a fun craft that decorates fabric with a needle and thread. You can teach yourself to embroider by watching a few youtube videos or reading guides.

There are many simple patterns beginners can practice; you might even know some already if you have basic sewing skills. All you need to start is some embroidery floss, a needle and a hoop. You can also buy this simple embroidery kit to get you started.  

Paint by Numbers  

Using paint by numbers, you can create artwork that looks professional while participating in this easy and fun activity. Paint by numbers can be a meditative hobby that will help you relax and be in the moment.

If the numbers are too small, use a magnifying glass as you paint. There are plenty of beautiful designs, and you can find a beginner’s paint by numbers here.  

Adult Colouring In  

Colouring has taken off in the last decade as adults colour mandalas, patterns, zentangles, sugar skulls and intricate images. Colouring is a therapeutic way to ease anxiety while increasing relaxation and mindfulness.

You can use pens, markers, crayons, pencils or sharpies, and books come in various styles and patterns. We like this book of 100 unique designs. 

Floristry  

Unlike many other hobbies, you can practice flower arranging for free by using flowers and foliage from your garden or the neighbourhood. You can also buy flowers from a flower market inexpensively.

If you want your arrangements to last, you can also use silk flowers. Once you know the basics of flower arranging, you can make attractive arrangements that look beautiful, regardless of the flowers you use.  

Macrame  

Macrame uses a variety of knots to create textiles such as charms, bracelets, wall decorations and plant hangers. Most macramé projects are completed with just three basic knots, and all you need is some macramé cord, a pair of scissors, and some tape to get started. You can purchase a simple DIY kit for your first project such as this one.

Revamping Furniture  

Revamping furniture is a fun hobby that can add personality and value to your home. You can use many fun techniques to update a dresser, table, chair, or bookcase and take items from bland to beautiful in less than a weekend. Most DIYs are surface-level, making them easy to transform when it comes to furniture. It’s lovely to have personalised designs scattered throughout your home.  

Singing  

Singing reduces stress and increases feelings of euphoria and pleasure by releasing endorphins and oxytocin. It’s also super fun and makes you feel light, relaxed and refreshed. In short, singing will add a little zest to your life.

Best of all, singing is free, and you can watch a few youtube videos or google instructions to get you started.  

Dream Catchers  

Making dream catchers is a unique and fun hobby, and the results are lovely. You can sell your creations online or at the markets or give them away to family and friends. Young children can also get involved with this beautiful craft.

You can buy a DIY dream catcher kit here, with easy video instructions and an instructional booklet.  

Kokedama balls  

Making Japanese moss balls is an excellent DIY gardening project and creates plants that will enrich any space. This living art form is centuries old. With just a few materials, you can practice this meditative art, make distinctive gifts for friends and family, or enjoy your wondrous creations.   

Make candles  

Candle making is a creative hobby that can be done for fun or as a side business. You can also gift your homemade candles to friends and family, and candles are thoughtful gifts as receivers will think of you when they burn them.

To make candles, you need wicks, wax, vessels, colour, and fragrance oil. You can buy a basic kit with everything you need to start here.  

Learn a Musical Instrument  

Learning to play a musical instrument will bring you great joy, and you will be able to build on your skill for the rest of your life. There are so many beautiful instruments to choose from, and you can learn to play music from broad genres of music such as pop, rock, country and jazz. Music can act as an outlet for emotion and is a great way to relax and unwind. 

When researching this article, I came across many moms who had taken up the ukulele and loved it. One mom wrote the following: 

“A friend introduced me to playing the ukulele a few years ago. I had never played an instrument before, so I felt apprehensive, but the world of ukulele players has been incredibly accepting. I have had so much fun. I found it easy to learn, it’s inexpensive, and I have made many new friends. Buy a ukulele and find a local group. You won’t regret it”.

Drama / Theatre Class  

Why not take a class if you are a drama or theatre enthusiast. Acting can help you build self-confidence and public speaking skills. You can join a theatre group or take a course through your local community centre to participate in drama. You can also start to study a few drama scripts and follow some youtube tutorials.  

Jewellery Making  

As a hobby, jewellery making can be as expensive or inexpensive as you want; jewellery ranges from simple wire or braided jewellery (such as friendship bracelets) to intricate items using precious stones or metals.

Courses include silversmithing and stone setting. Homemade jewellery is a beautiful gift for friends and family. You can click here for a DIY necklace kit to get you started on your jewellery-making journey. 

Polymer Clay 

Polymer clay is like play-doh, except you bake your creations to make them permanent art pieces. The clay is malleable and can be manipulated and sculpted into any shape you desire.

After the clay has been baked and has hardened, you can also paint your designs. We love this starter kit; however, if you try this art and find you have a passion for it, we recommend you upgrade to better quality clay so it doesn’t crack when baked. 

Woodwork 

Woodworking is a practical and rewarding hobby that can also be quite lucrative. From doing your carpentry repairs to building chairs, woodworking is relatively simple to learn, and every project will help you gain new expertise.

Start with a few easy beginner projects and accumulate tools as you go. You can also take a class through your local community college or take some youtube tutorials which will guide you through measuring, cutting, attaching and assembling. 

Pottery 

Clay is fascinating and will lend itself to your skill level. Slowing down and absorbing yourself in the process is mediative and therapeutic. Time is required to learn pottery techniques such as throwing, firing, decorating and glazing.

As pottery can require an upfront investment, I recommend taking a beginner course first to know whether it’s something you would like to continue. 

 Origami 

The art of origami is a fun and cheap hobby that can be as easy or complicated as you like. As long as you can follow instructions, you will be able to enjoy origami. Origami has a sliding scale of difficulty, so you can create increasingly elaborate paper works of art as you improve.

We love this book with clear step-by-step instructions and easy-to-follow diagrams, plus 162 sheets of authentic origami folding paper. 

Build Model Toys 

Building model toys allows you to spend time in zenful bliss, creating something incredible. There is a model for anything you might be interested in building, including puzzles, clocks, ships, trains, robots, etc.

We especially love this marble run kit that uses a crank and gears to move the marbles up and down. 

Blue Tac Art 

Not just used to stick things anymore, blue tac art is a fun alternative to modelling clay. BlueTac is also available in different colours, so your creations don’t have to be blue. You can google BlueTac art for inspiration, and there are some fantastic creations. 

Photography  

Photography is a great hobby to learn when you have babies and young children. You can either invest in a DSLR camera or learn to maximise your phone camera. There are many different types of photography, including landscape, macro, and portrait, so that you can tailor your hobby to your interests.

If you choose to use your phone, there are many online tutorials that you can take for free or find a more structured course through Udemy. 

Painting      

Painting is a fun hobby that will stimulate your imagination and help you see the world in a different light. If you are brand new to painting, begin with acrylic paints, as they are inexpensive, water-soluble, quick-drying and forgiving. Acrylics are also much easier to clean. 

Kumihimo Braiding 

Kimihimo is the ancient Japanese art of plaiting cords and thread to make braids. There are many ways of braiding, and each pattern produces a different type of design.

This traditional craft is a soothing, absorbing, and aesthetically pleasing experience, perfect for weaving some calm into your day. This disc is an excellent introduction to braiding. It holds the threads firmly and makes it easier for you to practice. 

Active Hobbies  

Dancing 

Dancing is fun, social or individual, and excellent for strength and fitness. There are many different types of dancing, including ballroom dancing, jazz, Latin, modern, ballet, funk, tap, line, hip hop etc. You can follow some online tutorials or join a dance class near you, and dance classes attract happy inspirational people. 

Gym 

Working out to stay fit and healthy can be super fun and even addictive. There are so many options at the gym, and you can take a class, pump iron or workout using the cardio equipment.

Going to the gym can also be social. If you attend regularly, you will start to see some familiar faces. Most gyms offer cardio, CrossFit, body pump, cycling, yoga, dance, and outdoor classes. Usually, there is a free trial, so you can try it out before committing. 

Horse Riding 

People who ride horses are usually animal lovers and play a crucial part in looking after the horse and riding it. Taking care of a horse after riding helps develop the relationship and can be as rewarding as riding. Horse riding gives you a feeling of freedom and a sense of adventure. It’s also great exercise, weight loss and body toning. 

Indoor rock climbing  

Indoor rock climbing is an enjoyable sport that builds upper body strength. It’s also a social sport as you require a partner, so many climbing gyms facilitate a social and inviting atmosphere designed to encourage meeting new people.

You don’t have to be fit to start rock climbing, there are beginner routes, and you can stop at any time to take a break.

Yoga 

Yoga is an excellent sport as it has physical, mental and spiritual benefits. It will boost your mind and self-confidence while making you more robust, flexible, and healthier.

I love the yoga with Adrienne 30 day challenges as they keep me motivated, and she doesn’t go too fast. You can also find a class in your local area. 

Tai Chi 

Tai Chi is a martial art meditation that improves wellbeing and tranquillity. The sequence of movements is precise, controlled and resembles a dance.

Tai Chi aims to enhance wellbeing by syncing the muscles and lungs and stabilising the rhythmic process of breathing and heartbeat. You can do a simple 5-minute tai chi program on youtube to find out if it’s for you.  

Train with a personal trainer 

Working with a personal trainer has many benefits; they keep you motivated, tailor a program to your individual needs, hold you accountable, and show you how to maximise results with your time.

You can also join a group fitness class run by a personal trainer, which can be a fun, social way to get fit. 

Running 

Running is a fun and easy hobby to enjoy because you can work it around your schedule. You can also jog with a buggy if you still have young children.

Build yourself up to running 5k and then plateau there or set yourself some more challenging targets such as running 10k or a half marathon. Running groups are available if you want to pick up running tips and train in a group. 

Swimming 

Swimming is a low impact sport that is a great way to get fit and benefit your whole body. The benefits of swimming include strengthening muscles, improving stamina and balance, relieving stress and tension, and it’s is also a great way to burn fat!

Golf  

Golf is a fun sport that’s easy to learn but hard to master, so you’re never without a challenge. It will keep you fit, and most people find it quite addictive, so it will transform your weekends and may even influence your holiday destinations. You can start at a driving range to give yourself an idea of whether you will like the sport. 

Martial Arts 

Martial arts make a great hobby because you can challenge yourself to continually earn new belts, keeping you motivated and goal orientated. Learning a martial art is great for fitness, self-defence, mindfulness and discipline. Choose from dojo, karate Taekwondo, Aikido, Judo, Jiu Jitsu, kung fu, Muay Thai and more.

Referee 

Refereeing is a valuable skill to have and an excellent community service as it allows everyone to play in a safe, fair and enjoyable environment. Umpiring is a great way to make friends and become an integral part of a vibrant community.

Refereeing offers a pathway to participate in sport at the highest level, keeps you fit and requires regular upskilling as rules change. 

Ice Skating 

Ice Skating is a fun and exciting hobby the whole family can enjoy together. It will get your heart pumping, strengthen muscles and burn calories. Best of all, you need no equipment except some warm clothes to get started. Book a slot at your local ice rink and hire everything you need for your first session. 

Dragon Boating 

Dragon boating is fantastic, painful, crazy, exhilarating and addictive. What’s not to like? Your training on the water and it’s fun and social. Dragon boating takes mental toughness, strength and resilience. 

Circus 

Circus training is a unique and creative way to develop strength, coordination and flexibility. It is non-competitive and suitable for all skill levels. Classes are usually goal orientated and fun in a positive and social environment.

Online circus classes usually cover juggling, hula hoop, poi, flower sticks, diabolo and magic. In house circus training usually involves tumbling, handstands, acrobatics and trampoline. 

Bushwalking or Hiking 

Bushwalking covers a broad spectrum of walking experiences across various trails. A bushwalk could be a full day walk or a few hours. Bushwalking allows you to set your own pace and challenge yourself with more demanding walks as you build up your fitness. Bushwalking is a beautiful way to convene with nature while getting fitter and healthier. 

Walking 

Walking is a low impact exercise that will help you clear your mind, it’s free and very simple to build into your daily routine. You can walk with a buggy or take the children on their scooters or bikes. Walking is excellent for overall fitness and will boost your mood. 

Hockey

I am listing hockey because it’s my sport; however, you can play netball, volleyball, football, basketball, baseball, cricket or any other team sport you find interesting. I enjoy hockey because it’s fun and social and keeps me fit. I like that it challenges my mind and body, and I always feel fantastic after a match, regardless of whether we win. 

Kayaking 

Kayaking is a beautiful sport that allows you to discover and explore nature while exercising and getting fit. If you want to experience nature in a new and fantastic way kayaking will deliver.

You can kayak on a lake, river, or a flat sea. To get started, you will need a kayak and oar, plus a way to transport your kayak and launch it. 

Roller Derby

Roller Derby is not for the faint-hearted. A team sport played on skates on a roller rink or other surface; roller derby is fast-paced and full contact. Roller Derby is rewarding and has opportunities for involvement on and off the rink – referees, non-skating officials, coaches, bench staff and event crew are all required for this unique and exciting sport.

Food Hobbies

Sushi Making

Sushi is surprisingly easy to make and is great for school lunches as it’s fresh and healthy, and kids seem to love it. You can get creative with various toppings and designs, and children will love getting involved with this creative hobby. This sushi making kit will ensure you have the right tools to start your sushi making hobby. 

Pasta

There is nothing better than homemade pasta as comfort food. Making fresh pasta from scratch is fast and easy.

Making your pasta is satisfying, tastes fantastic, and will undoubtedly impress your dinner guests! It’s a straightforward process and uses only three ingredients you probably already have on hand: flour, salt, and eggs.

Even if you don’t have a pasta maker, you can still make pasta with a rolling pin and cut shapes by hand. If you are happy to invest in a pasta maker to get you started, we recommend this one.

Bread  

Homemade bread is super healthy and simple to make. You will need flour, yeast, salt, and an oven to get you started. From kneading the dough with your own bare hands. To seeing it grow and brown in front of you. Bread making is rewarding and satisfying, and the best bit is when you get to enjoy your warm crunchy loaf with melted butter. 

Cake Decorating  

Cake decorating is so fun! It’s just like working with play-doh, and you can let your creativity and imagination run wild. Cake decorating is an excellent skill to have if you have young children, and making cakes for friends and family will bring joy to every occasion.

You can practice your skills on small cakes and cupcakes to start with, and sharing and eating your creations is part of the joy of this hobby. This starter kit will ensure you have all the right tools for this fantastic hobby.

 Thermomix

If you plan on making thermomixing your hobby, you don’t have to use the original thermomix. Any all in one kitchen machine will do the trick. Thermomixes and their competitors allow you to beat, blend, chop, whip, knead, mill, mince etc., using one appliance. The recipe possibilities run into many thousands, so this is a fantastic hobby for a stay at home mom as some days it feels like the children are constantly hungry. 

Baking  

Baking is a fun hobby and can be pretty therapeutic. Whether you are kneading dough, measuring ingredients or mixing batter, they can all have a meditative effect.

Baking can also throw up some challenges, testing your problem-solving skills. Baking is also an excellent way to make new friends. You can bake for your neighbours, school or your mom’s group. 

Paid Hobbies 

Mystery Shopping

Working as a mystery shopper or secret shopper can usually be fitted in around your other commitments. In most cases, you can complete the assignment whenever you are free. Secret shopping involves reviewing the service you receive in restaurants, retail stores, hotels, beauty salons, and other businesses. Mystery shopping is an interesting, fun and exciting way to earn extra cash. 

Household Admin

If you are good at household administration, outsource your skills. So many moms struggle with this skill, including me! Kids info, school communication, health, bills, mail. Help other moms set up a simple system always to have the necessary information on hand. 

Bitcoin trading

Bitcoin is a very volatile cryptocurrency, so you can make a profit if you time the market right, buying low and selling high. Bitcoin’s relatively unregulated landscape makes it easy to start trading, so this could be a fun and lucrative hobby.  

Dog Walking 

If you enjoy walking and love animals, why not make extra cash by walking with a furry friend. Most dog walkers have dogs themselves or have had one previously, so they know the love and care required to be a dog walker. 

Write a Kid’s Book Or Outsource Illustration    

If you are creative, why not write a children’s book. Writing a children’s book can be an enriching experience and could lead to a new career in writing. If writing is not your talent, you can consider illustrating books which is an equally rewarding hobby. 

Volunteer Hobbies

School P & C, rotary, canteen, girl guides, school literacy, coach teams, teach English as a second language, work with underprivileged children, meals on wheels etc. There are so many fantastic opportunities to volunteer, and most only require around two hours per week. Volunteering makes you feel great about yourself. 

Toastmasters  

Toastmasters will help you become a better communicator and speaker. Usually, clubs are friendly and supportive, and members are of all skill levels. Toastmasters will help you build self-confidence by enhancing your public speaking skills while taking you on a journey of personal growth. 

Learn a Language

Learning a new language can be an enjoyable experience that opens up a new world. It’s easier to learn a language these days with many apps and videos to assist you based on your learning style. A great tip is to listen to the music of the language you are learning, and singing along once you know the words will help you train your ear to the new sounds.  

Tarot 

You can learn to read tarot for fun; however, you can also turn this hobby into a side hustle once you have mastered the skill. Tarot reading takes dedication and devotion, and belief or faith in the power of the cards. We love this tarot guidebook and card pack to get you started.

Scrabble 

If you are a word lover, scrabble always spells F-U-N. You can play online, with friends or join a scrabble group in your local community.

Kombucha making 

Learning how to make Kombucha is a journey of discovery. Making Kombucha is like a microbiology project. Using a culture of bacteria and yeast, you will ferment sweet tea to turn it into Kombucha. You can experiment with different flavours and ingredients until you have found the perfect Kombucha recipe. 

Pet Hobbies

Foster and rehabilitate dogs

If you love dogs, why not open your heart and home to a dog needing fostering. Fostering is an enriching hobby, and you will also reap the benefits as you see your foster dog relax and destress the longer they are in your care. 

Marine Aquarium

Nothing surpasses the beauty and serenity of a marine aquarium. A marine aquarium is a good challenge for the intellect and requires troubleshooting and research when things are not going well. You can pick fish or coral that is easy to keep or others that are a little more challenging. You can also have several aquariums, such as one for reef and one for fish. 

Show Dogs

Showing dogs is a fantastic way to develop a bond between you and your dog. You will also be involved in an active community of show dogs and meet other like-minded owners. Dogs respond well to having a purpose or a ‘job’. Additionally, turning your dog into a show dog is very fun. 

Miscellaneous Hobbies 

Geneology 

Genealogy is a fun hobby that will help you find and meet new relatives and learn about your ancestry. It’s fun and addictive. Genealogy is a hobby that will finely tune your detective skills as you hunt through online databases, books, and public records and call your grandmother for vital information. It is low cost and will inspire travel and research. 

Welding

Welding is an art form and a trade. Learning to weld can be therapeutic, and making a piece of art or a tool is highly satisfying. Welding is also a handy skill for fixing things and making them functional again.  

Perfumes  

Why not join a perfume group to swap samples and discuss scents if you love perfume. Testing and smelling will open you up to new worlds, and you can also conduct your research in perfume shops. A global Facebook group called Facebook Fragrance Friends is a cosmopolitan group that loves to discuss their mutual love for all things fragrant. 

Sign Language 

Sign language is one of the easiest languages to learn. So many of the signs are commonplace gestures. Learning to sign is a beautiful gift to the hearing impaired community and an excellent workout for your brain. As you learn to sign, you can teach your children. Even babies and toddlers can learn sign language. 

Rubix Cube

The first step to Rubix cubing is to solve the puzzle. Once you have solved it, you can practice solving it with increasing speed. Speed cubers also practice solving the puzzle with their eyes closed. Now there’s a challenge for you! 

Crosswords / Jigsaws

I love crosswords and jigsaws because other people get involved when they come into the room. These are also great activities to keep your brain active. They are excellent for memory and mental health and are easy to pick up where you left them. 

Op Shopping

Op shopping is a fun activity that doesn’t always require you to buy something. Browsing odds and ends found in op shops can be exciting, and if it’s something you love to do, you may also consider volunteering there. 

Caravan / Camper Van Renovation 

One of our members has just purchased a caravan and enjoys remodelling it. A van can offer the freedom and relaxation to get away from it all, whether parked in the driveway or taken to an exotic destination. And remodelling it with your unique style will provide hours of endless fun. 

History 

If you are a history buff, many options are available to expand your knowledge and escape to a different era. Reading, watching documentaries, visiting museums and historical towns, joining preservation groups, or going on archaeology excavations are enjoyable activities for those interested in history. 

First Aid Course

Taking a first aid course is an excellent idea if you have young children. Hopefully, you will never need to use it, but it’s terrific for your peace of mind. Having the tools to deal with an emergency until medical responders arrive could also save a life. 

Hot Air Ballooning 

Hot air ballooning is a wonderfully serene pastime, it’s tranquil (except when the propane burners are firing), and there is a lack of feeling or movement as you glide on the wind. Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI) recognises hot air ballooning is one of the safest air sports in aviation.

Audio Books 

Books and audiobooks are excellent companions in life. Aside from providing an escape, they broaden your mind by exposing you to new ideas, cultures and adventures. Reading is great for enhancing creativity, lowering stress, increasing vocabulary and seeing the world through a different lens. 

Aside from the above-listed hobbies, other suggestions made by our community include:

• DIYing
  

• Book club
  

• Illustrator / Photoshop
  

• Alexander technique
  

• Cooking classes
  

• Mosaic
  

• Travel (planning, researching, travel shows, reading books on your destination, then looking forward to the adventure)
  

• Starting a vegetable garden
  

• Interior design (take a room in the house and make it over)
  

• Makeup and beauty (youtube videos and tutorials)
  

• Bird watching
  

• Scuba diving
  

• Stamp or Coin collecting

Being intentional with your free time and enjoying a hobby you love is a healthy habit to create. Spending time doing something you love is guaranteed to transform and enrich your life. 

By enjoying your passion, you will lose yourself in the moment and feel more powerful and in control of yourself and your life. You will make decisions based on what your heart is telling you. 

I am confident this list will help you find something to inspire you and bring you joy. Having something to look forward to every day will transform your life, and you will feel richer for being more present.