20 Leisure Hobbies You Need to Discover
Everybody needs some leisure in their life, but somehow, we just can’t make time for it. With all the stresses in life, it’s time to finally realize that a little bit of “me time” is deserved. For the precious time we set aside for ourselves, it’s important to make it enjoyable and worthwhile.
We’ve compiled a list of leisure activities and hobbies that will make every minute enjoyable and useful.
What exactly are leisure hobbies you may ask. Leisure hobbies are hobbies that are not too stressful and are enjoyable for your free time. They generally don’t involve much sweat, unless that’s what you’re looking for and decide to relax in a sauna or sun bath.
In this article, there is a list of different kinds of leisure activities. Leisure to you could me learning something online or it could mean going out and being social. It really does vary. So, this article has been organized into three easy categories for you. Learning, relaxing, and social. Here is a list of 20 leisure hobbies that are different from the usual ones, enjoy!
Leisure Learning Hobbies
- Bird Watching
Bird watching just feels good and relaxing. You can sit, stand, lay. You can be Indoors looking through a window or outdoors in a tree. All you need is some binoculars a note pad and google if you want to get serious. Write descriptions of what you see and research later if you like. You can learn about the birds in your area and get excited to travel to new areas to view new birds first hand!
- Gardening
Depending on where you live, what you can have in your garden varies. However, there is at least something for every climate. You can grow tomatoes and cucumbers in virtually any climate. If your region has harsh sunlight maybe add a little shade on top of them. Gardening is great you can actually “reap what you sow” in a good way!
- Knitting
Knitting is something you can learn to do with a bit of practice. It can be learned slowly and there are many videos on the internet for beginners. Not only is it something to do and learn, it is also relaxing. You can lay back and knit a blanket. Productive and relaxing that’s a win-win!
- Watch Documentaries
Documentaries are very interesting. There are many different types of documentaries. From nature documentaries to ancient history documentaries, it is cool that we can learn all of this while laying down.
Also, learning something you are interested in is always fun. Documentaries are versatile so there’s got to be one you’ll enjoy. To take it one step further, you can join a group online with the same interest and discuss what you learned.
- Reading Non-Fiction Books
Reading a non-fiction book is like watching a documentary, it is just a little more engaging. Reading anything helps us improve our vocabulary and our reading speed. Reading non-fiction is a way to learn and improve many parts of your brain all while not breaking a sweat. (Unless the book is intense!)
- Play a Brain Exercise Game
Games like Scrabble, Sudoku, and Chess challenge your brain. Anything that makes your brain work is good for your brain. It makes your brain create more connections and if you ever do play against friends, a little competition doesn’t hurt. Plus, you can do it on your phone or tablet in the comfort of your bed. Sounds good, huh!
Relaxing and Mindless Hobbies
- Singing
This may sound weird but singing even if you’re an awful singer is good for you. It releases endorphins and oxytocin into your body. This builds self-trust and helps reduce anxiety and depression. You can’t pretend singing doesn’t just feel good. Plus, you can sing anywhere, anytime, and for free.
- Meditating
Meditating is good for your mind, body, and spirit. We as humans need to take a little bit of time for ourselves to just sit and breathe. If meditating is hard for you, be easy on yourself. Do a guided meditation and don’t put too much pressure on doing it right. It takes practice.
- Drawing
This is fun because you can learn and practice new techniques. It’s very easy to put your own style on the page when drawing. You can pick a colored pencil, a marker, or plain graphite to create all different kinds of drawings!
- Painting
Painting is versatile. You can do any kind of painting. There are oil paints, watercolors, and casual acrylic paint. There are also drastically different styles such as abstract and realistic. If you aren’t the best at painting, try painting by number or just having fun with it. It doesn’t always have to be perfect and don’t be afraid to make a mess!
- Adult Coloring Books
Coloring in general is relaxing. The colors are pretty and when the outline is there, you don’t have to think too much. You just color. Adult coloring books bring along satisfaction and more seriousness. The intricate designs make you slow down. You’re able to create something different than the usual kids coloring book. Something more mature, like yourself.
- Start a Collection
Start a collection of something small that you like. Or something bigger if you have the space. The point is to collect things that bring you joy. Coins, rocks, flowers, the choice is yours. Keep it in an area you see often. Having things that make you happy in your eyesight is always a good motivator.
- Photography
You can take photos of anything. You can also take photos with anything nowadays. We’ve got phones, cameras, drones, and tablets. This gives you a shot to showcase things that catch your eye. What do you see all over the place that makes you smile? Snap a photo, share the smile!
- Baking
Baking. It makes your house smell good and eventually the food tastes good. Why not bake something? You could go simple with a cake mix or go intricate and make your own bread. The possibilities are endless. If you’re feeling generous give some to your family or friends. Baked goods are always a sign of love.
Social Hobbies
- Bowling
Bowling is a sport, but it is a leisurely sport. You can bowl with a group of friends or join a league. Bowling is something you can improve at, and it’s fun. From the outside, it seems like a simple sport but there’s more to it. Learning more about bowling will make you look great at any bowling get-together.
- Skating
Roller skating or blading is a great way to get your body moving. You could go to your local rink or go around the neighborhood. Local rinks often have adult-only nights which may be more fun. Skating or blading, in general, is fun but with more people your age the fun multiplies.
- Improv Classes
Improv classes are fun because you get to know other people. You also get to create scenes and make things up on the spot. Creativity and public speaking skills are a benefit from this hobby. Learning how to put something together on the spot is important in life and this can improve your skills.
- Help an Animal Shelter
Animals are so loveable and if you have the opportunity, helping the animal shelter is a great way to help the community. There are many ways to help, from volunteering to fostering you can find something to do.
- Help Plant Trees
We all know the earth needs more trees and there are various ways to help plant trees. You can donate to an organization or find somewhere near you that is asking for volunteers. If that’s not a possibility look up the trees that grow in your area and maybe you can start your local tree-planting organization. Plus, there are search engines that plant trees for every search. Try to find one you like and use it.
- Join a Book Club
Joining a book club is great. Whether you already read often, or you’d like to start. Try to find a book club with an agenda you enjoy. Book clubs are a great way to hear about new books and make friends! It’s also very nice to have a group to talk to specifically about books. The more clubs and fun classes the better. It will keep you sharp and diversified.
What’s Your Leisure Hobby?
This list of 20 leisurely hobbies was tailored to have at least one hobby for everybody. There are some great ideas and places to start with whatever you feel suits you. Whether you’re looking to relax, learn, or be social this list has something for you. Have fun!
