Is it time for a new hobby after 50? This month, we’ve been embarking on a new journey together—setting and reaching goals. I know that if something is important to you, you must climb the stairs! If you feel stuck or lonely like many of us do, why not set a goal of picking up a new hobby? If you choose an in-person setting for your new hobby, you might even find a new friend or two to join you on your journey. Whatever you do, don’t just hem and haw over it. Create your goal to engage in something new and exciting, and make it happen, darlings!

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The Best New Hobbies to Pick Up After 50

We go through different phases in life and being over 50 is the perfect time to find a new hobby. As we near or pass the age of 50, we go through a period of great transformation. For many of us, we are empty nesters. It is the time that many of us begin thinking about retirement. Or we have retired. No matter what is going on in our lives, there is a good chance that after 50 we have more time on our hands. What better time to discover a new hobby to pick up and run with? 

I recently wrote a story on the reinventing yourself and growing into new friendships. A friend of mine once said that she reinvents herself every 10 years and I think that’s true of all of us! Acquiring new hobbies is one way to fulfill ourselves as we move through different passages of life.

More time is a wonderful thing but when you are first adjusting, it may not feel that way. If you’ve had the same routine for years. Or you’ve spent so many years focused on your career and/or raising children. It is difficult to convince yourself that it’s alright to focus on yourself. To build a new routine. Not only is it okay, but it is also encouraged. It is good for you.

To convince you further, I’ve created this list of five new hobbies that are good for you. Not only do they proven to have benefits to your physical health, but also mental and spiritual. Go ahead and focus on yourself, sweet reader. Your brain and heart will thank you. 

#1 Learn new cooking and baking techniques to elevate your culinary game

If you’re over 50 you probably already know how to cook — but that doesn’t mean you have nothing to learn! Even seasoned chef’s are constantly learning new techniques. Before the age of 50, you were likely focused on feeding your family, perhaps you’ve stuck to a few tried and true recipes. Simple meals that you know everyone would enjoy. Why not take this opportunity to step up your culinary game? 

Or if you’re already a “seasoned” chef, it might be time to elevate your baking skills. Why not learn an impressive new technique? Wow your partner on a date night or friends with this elegant white chocolate panna cotta with strawberry sorbet (pictured above). 

Not sure where to start? There are lots of cooking how-tos on Youtube from the most basic beginner level to expert. This video by Gordon Ramsey breaks down 5 basic kitchen skills. If you’re ready to learn something more advanced, this video walks you through a Michelin star recipe for salmon. 

Other ways to learn cooking or baking:

• How-To Books 
• Recipe Books 
• Local Cooking Classes
• Online Cooking Schools 

How to combat loneliness after 50

#2 Joining a book club is a great social hobby to start after 50

Reading is a great hobby! You probably know, at least in the general sense, that reading is good for you. If you already enjoy reading, joining a book club is a great hobby to pick up!

Research shows, without a doubt, that reading reduces stress, and lowers your heart rate and blood pressure. It also has proven beneficial to the brain. When you read, your brain processes in several different ways. All of that activity is like a workout for the brain. Your auditory, phonetic, and comprehension brain muscles are all being flexed. Basically, reading is an entertaining hobby that keeps your brain active and sharp!

The great news is that this does not only apply to reading textbooks on astrophysics. Narrative reading has been proven to make positive changes in the brain. 

If you’re a social creature like me, you love getting together with your friends to discuss your latest read. Especially those who share your taste in books. A good place to find a book club is at your local library. Or you can start one of your own!

#3 New hobby to pick up after 50 — writing

Writing has many of the benefits that reading does. Expressive writing is proven to have a number of health benefits. Improved mood and lower blood pressure might be more obvious, but what if I told you that it could also improve lung and even liver function? Sounds like a great reason to turn writing into your new hobby. 

Another thing I love about writing is that you can do it from anywhere. You don’t need any special equipment. For instance, you can write on an impressive, high-tech computer or with pen and paper. You can find a lovely notebook and sit in a crowded cafe. Or you can dictate to your phone as you walk in the park. 

Types of writing, too, are limitless. At this very moment, you could start journaling or writing poetry. You could write that novel that you’ve always dreamed of. Need a little motivation? November, is National Novel Writing Month! You can join a challenge to write 50,000 words in the month of November along with thousands of others across the globe. What better time to start writing as a hobby? You can start planning your novel now!

Or you could do what I did and start a blog! I have a whole post on how to start a blog after 50. I cannot tell you how much blogging (which in my case is essentially journaling) has enriched my life. Read here why you should be tech savvy after 50 (and how to do it!).

If you’re not sure what type of writing you might enjoy, try taking a writing class or joining a writing group. You’ll never be short on motivation or inspiration. 

#4 Enrich your world after 50 by creating visual art

The next hobby for women after 50 you might want to try is creating art. Visual art doesn’t just enrich our lives when we view it, the act of creation is nothing short of cathartic. Creating visual art can be relaxing and meditative. Another great stress reliever and therefore a great new hobby to pick up. 

There’s no reason to keep to the usual mediums such as painting or drawing, though they would be wonderful. Many art forms have dedicated followings, and for good reason. If you need instruction there are many sources online or in person. 

Just a few mediums to explore:

• Needlepoint
• Watercolor
• Sculpture
• Pottery
• Origami
• Quilting
• Knitting
• Calligraphy

#5 Here are some fun physical activities to get you moving

Have you ever thought of physical activity as a potential hobby after 50? I’m willing to bet there are some methods you’ve never considered. You might just love them and what better way to show your body and mind love than to get moving? 

Ask yourself what you’re innately drawn to and there’s probably a corresponding activity. Love the mountains? Join a hiking club. If you love the water, why not try kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. 

A few activities to consider:

• Yoga
• Tai chi
• Walking
• Sailing
• Biking
• Dancing

There are many things you could try when contemplating a new hobby to pick up after 50. Trying different things may even be your hobby. The point is, dear reader, is that making the most of your time does not mean you have to stay busy in the way you may have in the past. Give yourself permission to devote time to yourself for the sole purpose of making yourself happy. You are worth it.

Have you recently discovered a new hobby? Let me know in the comments if you’d be willing to try any of these hobbies. I love hearing from you!

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