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Hobbies: New & Old

close up of two origami swans made with different colored paper

With all of the current shelter-in-place and social distancing directives, it’s a great time to learn something new or catch up on old hobbies and activities.

Coloring has been proven to have great benefits for all ages, including stress relief, improving motor control and creativity, and increasing concentration. Many online retailers now carry coloring options that feature a variety images including famous cities, antiques, animals, fishing, flowers, hardware and more.

Journal writing provides people of all ages with a creative anchor. Journaling allows you to write what you want without restrictions, to truly address the issues in your life without fear of criticism. Getting things off your chest can help relieve anxiety and encourage personal reflection. The act of writing things down can also help us reflect on previous situations and what we may do differently should the situation rise again.

There are many “How-To” videos online that feature a wide variety of topics, from changing the oil in your car, to tying a bow tie, to preparing exotic cuisine. Other examples include:

  • Origami
  • Calligraphy
  • Playing an instrument (or how to read music)
  • Drawing and painting
  • A new language
  • Crochet or other needlepoint craft

Once you’ve learned something new, show your friends and family by writing them a letter or sending them a card with a piece of origami, a line of calligraphy, or a sentence in a foreign language included within the greeting. Send them a wall piece, scarf, or pillowcase that you crocheted or cross-stitched. Your thoughtfulness is sure to shine and help encourage others to pick up an interesting hobby!

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