Getting older doesn’t mean that you have to sit at home all day, doing nothing and getting older. Keeping the mind active is the best way to actually feel younger, so here are six great hobbies to consider to keep both your body and mind active.
1. Gardening
Not only does gardening get you outside into some fresh air, but it gets your body moving around too. There are holes to dig, plants to water, and mulch to move around. And the results of your hard work will show when everything starts blossoming beautifully! Gardening also gives you a sense of purpose because you know your plants will need you if you want them to continue thriving.
2. Exercise Classes
We’re not talking about high-activity classes like Zumba. There are actually low-intensity classes that are suitable for seniors that focus on the parts you’re most likely to have problems with such as your joints. They’ll keep you moving and provide guidance so that you don’t risk injuring yourself. Attending classes also provides you with some socializing with other seniors to prevent those feelings of loneliness. To make the most of these classes, you may want to invest in hearing aids that deliver the most advanced performance so that you can hear the instructions.
3. Volunteering
It’s a way of giving back to the community, so consider getting involves in your local non-profit. It can provide a sense of satisfaction to know that your efforts are helping other people. There is the social aspect too where you get to meet new people who share your interests in giving back. It’s great for mental health and it will get you out of the house and doing something productive.
4. Learning to Play an Instrument
The saying “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks” is absolutely wrong; there’s nothing better than trying out something new in your senior years. Trying out an instrument, especially, will exercise the parts of the brain that you may never use and make it feel young again. We’re not suggesting that you have to be prepared to play in front of people at the town hall, but even learning just one song is beneficial for a sound mind.
5. Cooking
Cooking is another activity that can increase the elasticity of your brain. There are instructions to follow, measuring everything properly, and putting it all together to create a wonderful concoction that you get to eat afterward! It’s a pretty rewarding experience.
6. Arts and Crafts
Ever wanted to try cross-stitch? Want to knit a nice scarf for yourself? Trying out a craft of any kind will keep your fingers flexible and your mind at peace. It can become very zen-like until you realize you’ve been engaged in it for hours. In regards to the social aspect, there are classes you can attend that teach you the finer points of your chosen craft and you get to see what other people are making.
Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it; expect that you’re not going to be good at any new hobby and exercise patience to see it through to the end. You’ll feel more rewarded and accomplished.
Photo by Emre Kuzu
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