Spring is here. The sun is shining a bit brighter, the temperature is climbing a bit higher, and the great outdoors is shifting from a palette of brown and white to various shades of green. This is a great time to get back outside and participate in a hobby that takes full advantage of the springtime weather. Hobbies can be great ways to enjoy nature, discover something new about yourself, or even find a soothing moment within your comfort zone. We’ve compiled a list of retirement hobbies that are particularly popular in the spring.
Gardening
Gardening can be a healthy year-round hobby. It is difficult, however, to avoid enjoying flowers as they bloom through the freeze of winter months. If you haven’t gardened before, plan ahead. Several steps, like planting some seeds indoors before taking them outside, or preparing your garden area, equipment, and soil months ahead of time, can be done before spring officially arrives.
If you’re looking for flowers to get your garden started, try the snowdrop anemone, the “Acoma” iris, or the daffodil.
Photography
Many people consider spring to be one of the most beautiful seasons. What better way to capture that beauty than through photography?
No matter where you live, you have an opportunity to create breathtaking photos. Whether you are going outside with the intent to shoot, or just heading to the grocery store for some food, keep your camera with you at all times. You never know when that “perfect moment” will be waiting for you. Keep in mind before you begin that photography can be an expensive hobby… Cameras, lenses, and flashes (not to mention other gear you may be inclined to purchase in time) cost money. Start small to make sure that photography is the right hobby for you. AARP has some great tips from a few travel photographers that’ll get you started on the right foot.
Hiking
If you’re a fan of plants but don’t enjoy gardening, and you like exploring the outdoors but aren’t a fan of carrying a camera, then hiking may be the hobby for you. Hiking is a wonderful way to keep healthy and find a moment of peace in the great outdoors. Here are a few useful tips to consider before you begin:
- Avoid jeans. Wear breathable, moisture-repellant fabrics instead.
- Using a map? Get a topographical one, not a road map.
- First aid kits can come in handy.
- Yes, you’ll want water.
- If you’re going to buy boots, break them in before hiking.
- Check the weather so you know what you’re in for.
If none of the above hobbies seem like the kind you’d enjoy, try something else! Knitting, origami, needlepoint, pottery, woodwork, birding, yoga are just a few of the hundreds of activities that can be enjoyed outside in the bright sun of spring. As always, be sure to check with your physician before trying anything physical to make sure it’s the best decision.
Enjoy your springtime hobbies!
Resources:
https://lifereimagined.aarp.org/stories/27081-How-Your-Hobby-Can-Help-You-Get-Ahead