Taking up any new hobby is a chance not only to disconnect from work and other responsibilities but can lead to the development of new skills. Being able to unwind and have fun will also improve a sense of wellbeing and if the hobby gets you moving, health improves too. Whilst no one will deny the modern woman to name her favourite hobby as the chance to relax with a good book or in front of her favourite Netflix, there are some other fun hobbies to consider that are calming, engaging and teach as new skills. 

Gaming

Gaming online introduces you to a raft of new potential friends, many of whom may be just like you, a mother, a successful businesswoman or even a pregnant woman in labour refusing to go to the hospital until the last enemy is killed! 

If first-person shooter games are not your style but you want a new hobby for your free time, consider online card games, roulette and slots. Live dealer games have you chatting with the dealer who can tell you what is the hijack seat in poker and other strategies. There are plenty of free demo sites where you can test out your skills before you open an account.

Yoga

If you haven’t tried yoga yet, make it a priority if you want to embrace spirituality and feel calmer. Yoga will not only improve your flexibility and fitness but also opens up the world of good mental health. There are classes for all levels and whilst some of the moves may be difficult at first, yoga is as much a journey of self-discovery using ancient principles as it is about how well you can strike a downward dog. 

Nordic walking

For a hobby that combines the enjoyment of the great outdoors with improved fitness and muscle strength, consider Nordic walking. This is a great way to explore new areas and to switch off from all devices as you relax in the countryside. Nordic walking uses poles that work the upper body more than rambling and take the pressure off joints when walking.  Find a local group to find new routes.  

Like fashion? Make your own jewellery

If you have an artistic streak, create a unique piece of jewellery to gift to friends and family. Whilst this is a labour intensive hobby that can be expensive, it is a great outlet for your creativity and enables you to focus on just one thing in a hectic world.  Get started with a jewellery-making kit and learn techniques from online videos if you are unable to access any local classes. 

Embroidery, Tapestry, Knitting

If you have patience, are methodical and want a mindful hobby, embroidery, tapestry and knitting are great options. No prior skills are required. Though all are a challenge at first, the accomplishment felt with the first product will likely lead to a hobby to last a lifetime. With embroidery, you can learn to stitch with a sewing machine and try a range of different techniques until you find your favourite. 

Mixology

Impress guests by learning to be a mixologist or learn to make your own drinking more enjoyable. Easy to start, the hobby is fun and the results delicious. Making cocktails is not as simple as it first appears, so it is impressive to learn this art. Learn from one of your favourite mixologists or look online for hints and tips to create your favourite cocktail recipes. 

Gardening

If you love being outdoors spend time gardening in your own yard, planting your favourite flowers and plants.  If you have no yard, volunteer at a community allotment or local park where you will meet others with the same interest from whom you can learn a lot. Great for reducing stress, gardening can also save you money if you choose to grow your own fruit, vegetables and herbs.