After a lifetime of hard work and saving, retirement is finally the time to do all the things you always wanted to do, but never had the time for. In fact, engaging in hobbies in the next phase of your life offers fantastic benefits for your health and cognitive wellbeing.
With so many potential hobbies to take up in retirement, it can be challenging to figure out which would best suit you. With that in mind, continue reading to discover five of the best retirement hobbies to take up now.
1. Photography
World Photo Day on 19 August was a fantastic reminder of the joy and creativity photography can bring, and it could be a great way to experience fulfilment during retirement.
It is an incredibly versatile hobby that combines creativity, technical skills, and a love of exploration.
Whether you’re drawn to capturing breathtaking landscapes or preserving family memories, photography offers endless possibilities. Beyond the process of framing a shot, adjusting your camera settings, and capturing the perfect moment, it also provides numerous health benefits.
Heading outdoors encourages physical activity, helping you stay active in your later years as you enjoy the fresh air.
Even if you’re a beginner, you don’t need expensive equipment to get started. Most modern smartphones can take impressive photos, making the hobby accessible to everyone.
The focus and concentration required can also serve as a form of mindfulness, helping to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
2. Gardening
Gardening is a rewarding hobby that combines physical activity with mental relaxation. This is because it’s a relatively active pursuit that requires flexibility and dexterity.
In fact, it might be more demanding than you think. Harvard Medical School states that 30 minutes of gardening burns a similar number of calories as playing badminton or practising yoga.
Spending time in nature has also been linked to improved mental health and cognitive function. The process of nurturing plants from seedlings to mature specimens could be the ideal way to spend your retirement.
Better yet, since you’ll have your own fruit and vegetables to cook with, gardening could be a rewarding way to enhance your diet.
3. Writing
Writing in retirement offers a powerful outlet for self-expression, allowing you to explore your thoughts, ideas, and experiences.
Whether you’re drawn to fiction, non-fiction, or even poetry, the simple act of putting pen to paper can be incredibly therapeutic and stimulating.
Starting a blog might be a great way to dip your toes into the world of writing. You could choose a topic that you’re passionate about and share your insight and knowledge with others.
If you find that you enjoy this, you might consider writing a book next. Granted, this would take some effort, but setting yourself small, achievable goals could help you chip away at your book over time.
Completing a book is an incredible personal achievement, and it’s guaranteed to keep you engaged throughout retirement.
4. Travelling
If you’ve always dreamed of extensive travel but never found the time, retirement could be the ideal chance to do so.
Travelling the world is an incredibly stimulating and enriching experience, offering opportunities for adventure, learning, and personal growth. Sightseeing and exploring new destinations could even keep you on your feet and encourage physical activity!
Moreover, interacting with people from all walks of life can boost your confidence and broaden your perspective.
If you enjoy writing, documenting your travels could be a fulfilling way to hone your craft while capturing your memories.
5. Arts and crafts
Arts and crafts can provide a wide range of activities that help you express your thoughts and feelings during retirement. From painting and drawing to knitting and pottery, there’s certainly something for everyone.
Engaging in creative pursuits can be immensely relaxing, helping to reduce feelings of stress or anxiety.
Better yet, using your hands can help maintain or improve your fine motor skills, and the creative thought processes can improve your cognitive function too.
If you have a passion for art, you might want to join a group of like-minded individuals or take lessons. Not only could this offer the chance for further learning, but also increase your social circle, especially useful if you worry about loneliness in retirement.
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We could help you manage your finances later in life so you can focus on the hobbies you previously didn’t have time for.
Contact us now to find out how our Chartered financial planners could help.
Please note
This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.
