Some Creative Hobbies to Nourish and Inspire You
I picked up a paintbrush again after years of being too busy after the birth of my third child, now three, and wish I’d done it sooner. Enriching, inspiring and mindful, taking weekly classes near where I live, gave me the confidence boost I needed to paint and draw more prolifically at home. I hope to start another class in the new year.
I wanted to share a list of creative hobbies in case you might be considering starting or returning to one, soon.
Building Your Own Models
One for the kids, big or little, trains, planes and cars are popular collectables, especially when you build them yourself. Why not learn to build your own remote control car, train set, plane or even drone? More than an off-the-shelf product, a model made by your very own hands, with family members such as your kids hleping, will feel more rewarding and special. Imagine how good it will feel to watch your latest aeroplane model take to the skies or a train set choo choo around a track for the first time: magical!
Learning a Musical Instrument
The benefits of learning to play an instrument are far reaching as it is essentially learning another language: a musical language. I played the piano as a child and both my children have taken lessons in piano and violin respectively. Picking up an instrument helps with stress-relief, boosts memory and cognitive ability, helps with confidence and also instills discipline, not forgetting how joyful it is! A lot of music schools offer group or solo lessons from beginners to advanced players.
Practical Hobbies that Require Creativity
Almost anything can be a hobby. Some people are hands-on and logical, while others are more creative. A recent IPSOS survey found that 75% of people who have a hobby enjoy creative pursuits. There are tons you can choose from, but here are some popular ones:
- Painting is a popular hobby but one that allows the full application of personal style.
- Sculpting and pottery making are other favourites.
- Crafting with kids is a wonderful pastime too and it can even lead to a burgeoning online business as many of my friends found with their crafting blogs and channels.
Learning DSLR Photography
Can you aim a lens and press a button? Well, that’s great but there’s much more to photography than those basic skills. DSLR photography is a stimulating hobby, as you get to be both technical and creative. Learning shutter speed, ISO settings as well as composition, framing and importantly storytelling requires time and patience but it’s a lifelong skill you can use every day and even pass on to your children.
Growing Vegetables and Herbs
Growing your own produce is a win win all around, especially given the rising costs of living. While it takes a little planning and time, there probably isn’t anything more satisfying or useful than growing vegetables and herbs. For very little cost, you can feed your family, whilst controlling what goes into your food. If you don’t have a garden, consider growing on a windowsill or balcony. This is also a useful way to teach your children about nature, healthy eating and sustainability. My daughter has been growing veggies since she was one!
Don’t fear starting a new hobby, choose the new year ahead as the time to push out of your comfort zone and reap the benefits!
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