The dawning of a new year offers an exciting opportunity to change up your life. Instead of focusing on fad diets and exercise plans that you will probably abandon long before the end of January, why not use this year as a chance to pick up a good habit? Committing to spending time engaged in an enjoyable activity is great for your mental health, and starting a new hobby could even help you meet your physical health goals.
If you have run out of TV shows to binge-watch, and have grown bored with your quarantine, jigsaw puzzles, it’s time to try something new! From creating spectacular works of diamond art to arranging flowers into exquisite bouquets, read on to discover a few new hobbies to pick up in 2022.
- Diamond Painting
Diamond painting is a delightful hobby that lets you construct dazzling artwork without the need for any special skills or talent. Much like painting by numbers, diamond painting involves placing designated colors in specific places on a canvas. But, instead of using paint to fill in the blanks, you use colorful resin gems called diamond drills. The kits come in various sizes and feature just about every theme imaginable, so it’s easy to find one to suit any taste.
When shopping for the best diamond painting kits, not all products are created equal. Be sure to buy from a brand that includes all the necessary supplies to ensure the best possible experience. In addition to the pre-printed canvas and diamond drills, the kit should include accessories like wax, a tray and a drill pen. Look for companies that manufacture high-quality canvases with poured adhesive, too. Embarking on your diamond painting journey is a fun and rewarding experience when you start with the right diamond art kit.
- Painting
If you are more of a traditionalist, why not try your hand at painting? There are so many different types of media, styles and techniques to choose from and each has its own appeal and unique characteristics. Whether you enroll in a local watercoloring class or follow along with online gouache tutorials, learning to paint is a great way to pass the time and enhance your artistic abilities. Plus, traditional arts like painting are potent tools for self-expression.
- Cooking
Living on takeout isn’t good for your bank account — or your body. If getting healthy or improving your finances is on your list of New Year’s Resolutions for 2022, learning how to cook could help you achieve both goals. And, even if you are someone who struggles to boil water, cooking is not as intimidating as it seems. Sign up for a meal subscription box and you will learn essential cooking skills while getting to dine on all sorts of taste bud-tantalizing entrees. Plus, all the ingredients you need will be delivered directly to your door.
- Flower Arranging
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Flower arranging is both rewarding and relaxing. If you love flowers or are looking for a hobby that will allow you to spread joy to others, learning the basics of artistically arranging fresh or artificial flowers is an excellent option. You can find a full array of books, magazines and online tutorials on the subject, as well as in-person or zoom classes. And, unlike some other pastimes, floral design does not require a lot of expensive supplies if you arrange flowers sourced from your own backyard garden.
- Gardening
Speaking of gardens… Starting your own garden would be another excellent way to pass the time in 2022. You could start a flower garden for your newfound, floristry hobby, or you could plant a vegetable garden. And, if you choose the latter, there is nothing quite as satisfying as cooking using ingredients sourced from your own garden! If flowers and vegetables don’t sound appealing, consider a different theme, such as an herb garden or even a tea garden.
You can enjoy growing things even if you do not have a spacious yard. There are plenty of options for creating a garden on your patio or a sunny windowsill. No matter what you grow and how large or small your garden is, this is a rewarding hobby that you are sure to enjoy.
- Playing a Musical Instrument
If you are musically inclined, learning to play an instrument is a worthy goal for the new year. It’s never too late to learn something new! For adults, learning an instrument offers numerous benefits. It could help you enhance your brainpower, boost your multitasking skills, alleviate stress and more. Dig into your family background, and consider an instrument your ancestors might have played or listened to. Plus, becoming an instrumentalist is a great way to meet new people and creates an enormous sense of accomplishment.
- Podcasting
Just about everyone has a favorite podcast. If you are someone who enjoys listening to these media broadcasts, why not start your own? You can create a podcast about nearly any subject, and when you do, you’ll get to share your unique voice, knowledge and perspective with the world. You could even double up and put together a podcast based on your new gardening hobby. Whether you do it just for fun, or in hopes of boosting your income, podcasting is a hobby that is definitely worth checking out in 2022.
- Meditating
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The art of meditation is a hobby that quiets your mind and instills a sense of inner peace. As your practice grows and unfolds, it can enhance clarity, improve concentration and increase happiness. With all of those benefits, it’s no surprise that people have been practicing meditation for thousands of years! Today, there are lots of free meditation videos on YouTube, making it easy to learn this ancient practice.
- Stargazing
You don’t need a lot of fancy (and expensive) equipment to enjoy an evening of stargazing. Just head outside on a clear night and look up! Learn more by downloading an app that allows you to point your device at the sky and see precisely what stars, planets and constellations you are observing. The cold, clear nights of winter are a perfect time to pick up this hobby.
- Writing
Whether it’s jotting down your thoughts in a journal, or working on crafting the next bestseller, writing is a wonderful way to pass the time. It’s good for your mental health and a powerful means of expressing yourself. If you aren’t sure where to start, consider starting the year off with a guided journal. You may be surprised where it takes you!
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