As we ease into the summer, it is important to switch up your lifestyle. This can improve your health and enhance your mental wellbeing. You can spice up your lifestyle by simply exploring new hobbies that can spark joy, ignite creativity, and foster personal growth.
In this article, we will guide you through a curated list of exciting hobbies to pick up this summer. Whether you are adventurous or cautious, there is a perfect hobby waiting for you.
Reading
It is the best time to create a good reading culture. You can start small. There are several books with few pages to kickstart this hobby. So, length shouldn’t scare you. And trust us, if the book is good, you won’t be concerned about length. There are also various genres to choose from: romance, mystery, thrillers, etc., your choices are limitless. Make sure you start with a genre you enjoy. If you don’t like what you are reading, this hobby might prove difficult for you. On the plus side, reading is a great way to expand your vocabulary and acquire knowledge. It is also a form of entertainment. You can buy books from your local bookstores like Roving Heights and Ouida or purchase from Amazon.
Journaling
The first question that pops into mind when people think of journaling is, “How do you journal?” The answer is however you please. There is no format for journaling. You can choose to write about your day or something bothering you. Better still, a thought that pops into your head. But if you are unsure of how to go about it, you can always get a guided journal. These journals come with everyday prompts to help you write. Journaling is a splendid stress reliever. Regularly writing in a journal can be a therapeutic outlet for stress. It allows you to unload your thoughts and concerns, reducing the emotional burden on your mind. It also encourages self-reflection and provides a platform for recording positive events. Several bookstores sell journals and you can also get them online.
Photography
We know what you are thinking; “I need a camera for that.” No, you don’t. Your phone camera is fine for this. There are a lot of “mobilegraphers” these days. But if you have a camera or can afford one, by all means, use it. Photography gives room for creative expression. It provides a medium to showcase your unique perspective, style, and creativity. Photography also encourages you to find beauty in everyday moments and ordinary scenes. It trains you to see the world with a fresh and appreciative perspective. The best part is you get to document memories. After all, we are all fragments of the memories we make. You don’t need to be a professional at this, you should simply enjoy it.
Travelling
What better time to travel than the summer? Many people think travelling is an expensive hobby. Well, it is, depending on where you are looking to go. Florence, Maldives, and Mauritius are all fine places to visit. And if your bank accounts can support these expenditures, pack your bags and explore. However, Nigeria is also a pretty good place to tour. There are the Gurara Waterfalls and Kainji National Park located in Niger state, Obudu Cattle Ranch where the Calabar festival that hosts various cultures holds, Yankari Game Reserve in Bauchi, Lekki Conservation Centre in Lagos and many more. Niyi Fagbemi does a great job documenting Nigeria’s tourism. Benin and Togo are also good places to travel.
Sip and Paint
Sip and paints are now in vogue. They are a terrific way to relax and nobody expects your painting to be of Picasso standard. You can learn basic painting techniques and gain artistic skills in supportive and non-intimidating environments. Many Sip and Paint sessions are led by instructors, so you are guided through the process. Sip and Paints are usually done in a group setting, offering an opportunity for socializing and connecting with others who share similar interests. It can also boost camaraderie. Plus, you get to try different wines and beverages, a win-win situation if you ask us. Sip and Paint NG is a wonderful place to start as they offer different sessions and might have a location close to you.
This summer, we hope you make room for hobbies because they can be a form of self-care.
Cheers to a summer filled with exciting and fulfilling hobbies.
