Take Up a New Hobby or Sport

Recently my mother came to visit and brought along with her a crocheting project. Although she's knitted for many years, she just took up crocheting over the last several weeks and is in the process of making a lovely afghan. While discussing her travel plans, she'd mentioned to me that she wanted to teach me to crochet. Initially I was not open to the idea because I remembered my failed attempts at knitting when I was much younger. Nonetheless, I agreed to give it a try. To my surprise it took me only a couple of days to get down the chain, single and double crochet stitches. A couple of weeks later and I'm in the midst of making my own afghan.

I had a similar experience with golf. In college I took up the sport but couldn't seem to master the game. A few years ago I agreed to go golfing with my husband, and though I still haven't mastered it (not many have), it's become one of my favorite activities. Now that I'm older, I seem to have a little more confidence as well as patience to learn new things. I believe that this is the same for many as they mature. Thus, middle or retirement age is a great time to learn a new hobby or pick up a sport. Still not convinced? Here are more reasons to try a new activity:

1. Staying active is good for the brain. Studies show that both physical and mental activity is good for brain health. Just think, hobbies typically require that you read as well as remember different steps and techniques. This will keep you learning and your brain active even though you may or may not be going to work on a daily basis.

2. Hobbies/sports are a great way to meet new people. Community centers, private clubs and even internet groups often center around a hobby or other interest. There are clubs/groups for almost any and every interest including knitting/crocheting, walking, gardening, scrapbooking, dancing, bird watching, baking and sports collecting.

3. Hobbies can lead to extra income. Many crafters sell their wares on line as well as at local craft shows. You can also earn income by teaching your hobby or sport at your local community center. Additionally, creating a website or blogging about your hobby or special interest can also lead to extra income.

4. Stress relief and personal accomplishment. Crafts and sports help to relieve stress by getting your mind off of your problems or other concerns. Completing a project or improving in a sport can also lead to personal fulfillment and accomplishment.

In addition to traditional hobbies and sports there are many new and innovative activities to get involved in including disc golf, digital photography, candle/soap making, scuba diving, beading, card making and quilling (paper art).