Mum’s life: finding a new hobby
Top ideas for finding a new passion in your life.
According to National Statistics, the most popular pastime for women is watching television! Time to do something new?
Five to try
Cook club
Try a monthly gathering at one of your friends’ homes. One of you leads a session in how to prepare her signature dish. Guests bring other dishes to go with the star turn so you can all then enjoy the improvised feast.
Knitting
The recession has made home crafts fashionable. There’s even a novel called ‘Friday Night Knitting Club’ being turned into a chick-flick, reflecting the trend for knitting and sewing. If you’ve never had a go before, start with something really easy – you can always glam up a project like a simple scarf by choosing a flamboyant ball of wool!
Alternative fitness Taking up something like yoga, Pilates or tai chi can give you a new perspective on fitness, help with back problems or improve breathing and sleep patterns.
Flower arranging
Learn how to arrange flowers for a beautiful home, for gifts, as a new career or just to create amazing natural art. It can be expensive, so find courses linked to a local florists or garden centre for cheaper options.
Local or family history
Unearthing interesting facts about the area you live in gives you a chance to meet all kinds of new people and it can be fascinating. Or find new ways to spend quality time with relatives by starting a family history – don’t miss Dr Tanya Byron’s article Sharing family stories.
Savvy tip
Why not start a new hobby with your hubby? It’s a great way to spend time together that isn’t just about laundry, household finances or the kids.
Pass it on – the gift of free time
If you can’t decide what to do, why not become a volunteer? There’s a need for all manner of down-to-earth skills and you decide how much or little time you can give. Try www.volunteering.org.uk or www.do-it.org.uk.