If you’re like most people, you’ve been looking forward to the freedom of retirement for most of your working years. Without the commitment of a full-time job, you’ll have a lot of extra time on your hands. In order to stay active and engaged – both physically and mentally – it’s important to explore new hobbies. Check out the list of hobbies below, and try something new next time you’re feeling bored!
Travel
Retirement is a great time to travel. You don’t have to worry about taking time off work, your children have all left the house, and you can plan an extended trip without worrying about commitments at home! Whether you decide to travel through Europe or road trip across the United States, travel can introduce you to exciting new opportunities and adventures.
If you want ideas on where to travel next, check out these articles!
Gardening
Gardening is a relaxing way to stay active during retirement. Planting and weeding is a great way to improve your core strength and maintain mobility. Not only is gardening great for your physical health, but being outside in the fresh air does wonders for your mental health.
If you don’t have space to plant a full garden, start somewhere small like a container garden or window box. Most flowers and plants don’t need much space. Just grab a few pots, plant some seeds, and wait to reap the benefits!
Cooking
Cooking is a great retirement hobby for many reasons. Learning to cook can help you eat healthier, eating at home can help save money, and cooking with friends and family is a great way to bond. Don’t worry if you don’t have a lot of experience in the kitchen. Learning the basics of cooking is easy! Try reading cookbooks, finding recipes online, or watching cooking shows to learn new techniques.
Once you have the basics down, invite your grandkids over for breakfast, and make one of these fun recipes!
Volunteer
Volunteering can help you as much as it helps those in your community. Volunteer work is good for your mind, body, and soul. In fact, studies have shown that volunteering can improve your physical and mental health!
If you want to volunteer but don’t know where to start, look into places like your local hospital, schools, or the public library. Volunteer Match is another great resource that helps you find volunteer opportunities in your neighborhood.
Exercise
It’s important to maintain your physical health in retirement. Luckily, exercise takes on many forms, and you can have fun while doing it! Try going on a morning or evening walk, swimming, or finding nature trails to ride your bike along. If you want to socialize while your exercise, look for yoga, dance, or aerobics classes in your neighborhood.
You don’t have to run marathons to stay in shape. Find an activity that excites you, and have fun while staying fit!
In Conclusion
After years of working, retirement is your time to have fun and relax. Whether you’re traveling around the world or becoming the world’s best at-home cook, make sure you’re spending your time doing activities you enjoy!