Now, more than ever, we have so many ways to pass the time with our families. We can scroll on social media, binge watch a TV series, or gather around the TV to watch the Avengers movie series. Although these are mindless activities you can do with your family, they aren't the best way to spend quality time with your family.
As a parent, most of your time is spent focusing on your family, household, and even work. It can even be difficult to find time to take care of yourself. However, it's important to find time to take care of yourself, so you can take care of those people that count on you. One way we can start taking better care of ourselves is through hobbies.
Having a hobby or two can greatly benefit you more than you think. A hobby is the intentional, purposeful use of leisure time. Hobbies don't just take your mind off of stress; they can actually help you reach those work and family life goals. By actively engaging in a hobby, you can relax and recharge, learn new skills and increase problem solving skills, and better connect with those around you.
For children though, hobbies can have an even greater effect on their well-being. Hobbies give children an opportunity to discover themselves, express who they are, and build self-esteem. Hobbies also provide children with learning opportunities as they can explore many different things.
Here are 10 hobbies you should consider picking up to spend more quality time with your family:
1. Gardening
Gardening can boost vitamin D intake, fight stress, decrease risk of dementia, maintain a healthy weight, get a good night's sleep, and improve mood and self-esteem.
2. Photography
While it may seem everyone is interested in being a photographer, it doesn't matter if you're good at it or not, especially if you're into it to capture memories. Photography can help you see the world around you with new eyes.
3. Puzzles
Puzzles can be a relaxing family activity that's good for the brain. Puzzles can reduce stress, improve memory, reaction time and problem-solving skills. Kids can benefit from puzzles as they improve spatial and social skills.
4. Volunteering
Volunteering is a good way to use your time, skills and resources to help your local community.
5. Baking
Baking can be stress relieving, creative, and a perfect way to show thanks to those around you. You can also preserve family traditions and history to pass down recipes to your children!
6. Board games
Board games are a perfect way to spend time with your family. For kids, board games can help them learn teamwork and how to win and lose gracefully. Board games can engage the mind and promote memory function, language skills and spatial ability.
7. Astronomy
What's cooler than seeing all the stars in space! Look up at the night sky and try to find constellations or specific planets!
8. Start an aquarium
This is a great way to learn about and interact with marine life! Starting an aquarium can teach your kids responsibility, create an appreciation for nature and learn how everything in the tank works together to establish a healthy habitat.
9. Woodworking
Need new furniture? Make it yourself with your family! Woodworking can be a relaxing way to be hands on and use both logical and creative sides of your brain!
10. Soap making
Making your own soap involves chemistry and creativity. If you have sensitive skin, this is a good way to avoid and ingredients that may cause irritation, and you can even share these with friends!