Getting the most from life often means balancing social time with time for yourself. Everyone has different preferences when it comes to how they spend their solo hours each day – but if you feel at something of a loose end, it might be worth trying a new kind of activity.
So, which activities might appeal? Let’s take a look at a few of the more compelling options.
Gaming
There’s an enormous industry dedicated to providing games. A sizeable portion of these games are designed exclusively to be played alone. The good news is that you don’t need an expensive games system to get started, since many of the best modern games can be played with the mobile phone in your pocket.
You might, for example, play a few rounds of free bingo. With simple rules and a straightforward interface, it’s easy to get into. Or, if you prefer something a little more involved, there are modern narrative-driven action and strategy games to get into. With literally thousands upon thousands of options available, it’s worth dipping into a variety of titles and seeing which of them appeals.
Cooking
Cooking is a skill that can be immensely rewarding. The activity itself can be fun, but, on top of that, there’s the enjoyment that comes with eating great food, and the health and financial benefits that come from making food for yourself.
You might explore a particular part of the cooking experience that appeals to you. This might mean learning how to make fresh pasta, or fresh bread – or it might mean mastering a particular appliance that you’ve seen on your favourite cookery show.
Painting
Art is something that just about anyone can get into, even if they’re starting their journey late in life. Whether your preferred medium is pencil, ink, paint or clay, you’ll be able to get started with minimal supplies. There are a number of great resources available online, including paid-for courses and free ones on sites like YouTube.
Practice your art consistently by setting up a dedicated space and making it as easy as possible to get started whenever inspiration strikes. You might set up an easel in the conservatory, alongside a few subjects.
Hiking
Walking is among the most effective forms of exercise, because it’s easy to get into. Just a few minutes a day can make a vital difference to your physical and mental well-being.
When you’re prepared to take the activity a little more seriously, you can lace up a pair of hiking boots and take yourself down to the South Downs Way, the Cotswolds, or the Peak District. When your chosen activity takes place, outdoors, in a green and lush part of the world, it’s sure to be much more effective in bolstering your mood, and reducing your stress levels.
