For the last 3 days, the political news is regarding Covid 19 pandemic, especially on the issue of vaccination shortages, Oxygen gas in short supply to hospitals across the country, and more so in affected states. Now the politics have started happening on both these issues, I fail to understand these politicians why are only interested in scoring points. It is high time in this hour of crisis both opposition and ruling parties at states and centre come together and reduce the misery of the people affected by this pandemic. But in our country, in the present political scenario, it seems highly impossible to think even the opposition and ruling parties agree on something, even for the benefit of people.
So I am turning to my other topic :
It is highly important to stay fit and active, both physically and mentally and learn to live a satisfying life. A HOBBY is something that can help people of all ages, especially senior people, in this aspect. A few people may have hobbies which they enjoy, like cooking, sewing, gardening, music, etc. Age is never a limiting factor in picking up new hobbies, as has been proved by many people.
There are many examples of how seniors have taken to swimming, shooting, blogging, arts & crafts, etc, after their retirement. Many start classes for the benefit of others so that they can keep themselves active and also benefit others in society.
Why a hobby after retirement– The hobby is to keep oneself physically and mentally active, and also emotional fitness you can achieve with it. You find a sense of satisfaction. Do something like painting, writing, or art & craft. You may even use these items for gifting your family and friends on occasions and this can also provide a sense of belonging and togetherness. Now if you start taking hobby classes, you may find an entirely different dimension to your life. By doing so, you will also have an active social life, wherein you can mingle with people of all age groups. This can keep isolation and depression away, especially if you are staying alone, your boredom will come down. You may find a sense of purpose, and keep yourself busy.
Many a time, if you pick up a new hobby, you may find some hidden, dormant, talent, coming out as well. You could also be keeping diseases at bay if you stay fit mentally. You will realise that you have developed a lot of new skills. In fact, being involved in such activities is an excellent idea to keep dementia away, as per research. Hobbies are also known to reduce stress and improve the mood of people. It also improves memory as well as a sense of confidence and self-belief.
The options– So, what are the possibilities, that one can look for to keep oneself busy with a hobby? There umpteen options, both indoors as well as outdoors that can be explored. The indoor option could be arts & crafts, music, reading and writing, cooking, sewing, blogging, painting, and sketching, solving crosswords or other such word or logical and analytical games and puzzles, etc. The outdoor options are gardening, volunteering at any events or clubs of your choice in the neighbouring area, conducting or organising any relevant activities in your area, taking up causes like Swacch Bharat, creating awareness about planting trees, or helping with traffic management, etc. You can look at conducting the exercise, laughter, Yoga, or even bhajan classes for adults and children. You may even take cycling, swimming or trekking.
Well, the benefits are many, and it does appear as if hobbies can bring in a big amount of positive difference to the life of seniors. Figure out what you would like to do and your area of interest. if you have any mobility issues or health conditions that forbid specific activities, then please stay away from such activities. You may choose to pick up something suitable that may not prove challenging for your limitations. But, make sure to try out a few and feel the difference for yourself.
In my personal case, after retirement, I picked up the hobby of writing. I am writing my blogs for the last 4 years, and I have already written 850+ blogs to date. I have completed writing one 400+ page book also, which at present is going under editing and corrections, and if I am fortunate enough it will get published also.
Hope this will give you some encouragement to pick some new hobbies.
waiting for your comments & views.
Anil Malik
Mumbai, India
26th April 2021.