The Ultimate Guide to the Best Spoonie Hobbies
Living with a chronic illness can be tough, but finding a hobby that you enjoy can make all the difference. Hobbies can provide a sense of purpose, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. Within the best spoonie hobbies out there, there is a wide variety of options for different interests and abilities, including creative hobbies, outdoor hobbies, mind-body hobbies, gaming hobbies, and so many more.
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Creative Hobbies
Creative hobbies are a great way to express yourself and reduce stress. Here are some great ideas for some of the best spoonie hobbies that embrace your creativity:
Writing
It should come as no surprise that this is one of my favorites, as a creative writer and poet myself! Writing can be a therapeutic hobby for spoonies. You can journal about your experiences with chronic illness or write fiction or non-fiction pieces. Writing can help you process your emotions and thoughts, and may even improve your physical health by boosting your immune system.
Coloring
Coloring can be a great way to relieve stress and express your creativity. You can choose from a variety of coloring books or print out your own designs to color. Coloring has also been shown to have a therapeutic effect, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Papercrafts
Papercrafts, such as origami or building paper miniatures, can be a fun and intricate way to express your creativity. You can find patterns online or in books, and create beautiful paper designs while enjoying a quiet and calming activity.
Painting and Drawing
Whether you prefer watercolors, acrylics, or pencils, painting and drawing can be a great way to relax and express your creativity. You don’t have to be an expert to enjoy these hobbies – simply pick up some supplies and start creating!
I’ve only recently started recovering my childhood love of art, and am excited to dive into Mark Kistler’s You Can Draw in 30 Days and the YouTube series that led me to it, “Can Professor Bill Learn to Draw in 30 Days?”
Knitting and Crocheting
Knitting and crocheting can be calming and meditative hobbies. You can create beautiful scarves, hats, or blankets while enjoying a relaxing activity. Knitting and crocheting have also been shown to have a positive effect on mental health, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Cross-Stitch and Embroidery
I’ve never quite gotten the hang of knitting or crochet myself but I love these types of needlework! Cross-stitch and embroidery can be a relaxing and satisfying hobby. You can create beautiful designs with thread and fabric while enjoying a quiet and calming activity. Cross-stitch and embroidery have also been shown to have a positive effect on mental health, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Sewing
Sewing is a creative hobby that allows you to make your own clothes, accessories, or home decor. You can start with simple projects, such as a tote bag or cushion cover, and work your way up to more advanced patterns.
Sculpting
Sculpting is a tactile and meditative hobby that allows you to work with clay, stone, or other materials. You can create sculptures of animals, people, or abstract shapes, and enjoy the benefits of working with your hands.
Calligraphy
Calligraphy is a beautiful and meditative hobby that involves writing letters and words in an artistic way. You can use pens, brushes, or other tools to create intricate designs and improve your handwriting skills.
Photography
Photography is a creative hobby that allows you to capture the beauty of the world around you. You can experiment with different angles, lighting, and subjects to create stunning images. Photography can also be a great way to connect with others who share your interests, by joining a photography club or sharing your photos online.
Outdoor Hobbies
Getting outside and connecting with nature can be a great way to boost your mood and improve your physical health. Here are some of the best spoonie hobbies that will get you outdoors:
Foraging
rewarding way to connect with nature and find fresh, wild foods. You can learn to identify and harvest edible plants, mushrooms, and berries in your local area. However, it’s important to do your research and learn about safe foraging practices, as some plants can be poisonous or dangerous if not prepared properly. It’s also important to respect the environment and only take what you need, leaving enough for wildlife and future foragers.
Gardening
Gardening can be a great way to connect with nature and get some exercise. You can start small with a few potted plants or create a full-fledged garden. Gardening can help you feel more connected to the earth and give you a sense of purpose. Gardening has also been shown to have a positive effect on mental health, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Hiking and Nature Walks
Exploring the great outdoors can be a fun and energizing hobby. You can find local parks or nature trails to explore, and enjoy the fresh air and scenery. Hiking and nature walks have also been shown to have a positive effect on physical and mental health.
Birdwatching
Birdwatching can be a relaxing and rewarding hobby. You can find local birding spots or invest in a pair of binoculars and observe the birds in your own backyard. Birdwatching has also been shown to have a positive effect on mental health, reducing symptoms of stress and anxiety.
Camping
Camping can be a fun and adventurous way to get outdoors and explore nature. You can plan a weekend camping trip with friends or family, or go solo for a quiet and peaceful experience. Camping can also be a great way to disconnect from technology and reconnect with the natural world.
Geocaching
Geocaching is a fun and interactive outdoor hobby that involves using GPS to find hidden caches or containers. You can search for caches in your local area or plan a geocaching adventure while traveling. Geocaching can also be a great way to connect with others who share your interests, by joining a geocaching group or attending a geocaching event.
Mind-Body Hobbies
Mind-body hobbies can help you reduce stress and improve your physical health. Here are some of the best spoonie hobbies that embrace the mind-body connection:
Yoga and Meditation
Yoga and meditation can be great hobbies for spoonies because they help you relax and reduce stress. You can practice at home or attend a class to connect with others who share your interests. Yoga and meditation have been shown to have a positive effect on physical and mental health, reducing symptoms of chronic pain, anxiety, and depression.
Tai Chi
Tai chi is a gentle form of exercise that combines movement and meditation. It can help improve balance, flexibility, and muscle strength, while reducing stress and anxiety.
Dance
Dancing can be a fun and energizing hobby that helps you get moving and improve your physical health. You can choose from a variety of dance styles, from ballroom to hip hop, and enjoy the benefits of movement and music. I don’t often feel up to it these days but love dancing! Someday, I’d love to try some adult ballet classes.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is a practice that involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment. It can help reduce stress and improve mental health. You can practice mindfulness by meditating, taking a mindful walk, or simply taking a few deep breaths throughout the day.
Gaming Hobbies
Gaming hobbies can be a fun way to socialize and improve cognitive function. Here are some of the best spoonie hobbies involving games:
Board Games and Card Games
Playing board games or card games can be a fun way to socialize and pass the time. You can play with family or friends or join a local game club to meet new people. Playing games has been shown to have a positive effect on mental health, reducing symptoms of depression and improving cognitive function.
Video Games
Video games can be a fun and immersive hobby that allows you to escape into another world. You can choose from a variety of genres, from adventure to puzzle games, and enjoy the benefits of gaming, such as improved hand-eye coordination and cognitive function.
Role-Playing Games
Role-playing games, can be a fun way to exercise your imagination and socialize with others. You can join a local group or play online, and enjoy the benefits of collaborative storytelling and problem-solving.
Virtual Reality
Virtual reality can be a fun and immersive hobby that allows you to experience new worlds and environments. You can use a VR headset to play games, explore new places, or even meditate in a virtual environment
Puzzle Solving
Puzzle solving can be a fun and challenging hobby that helps improve cognitive function. You can choose from a variety of puzzles, such as crosswords, Sudoku, or jigsaw puzzles, and enjoy the benefits of problem-solving and mental stimulation.
Finding a hobby that you enjoy can have many benefits for spoonies. The best spoonie hobbies can help you relax, express your creativity, connect with others, and improve your overall well-being. Whether it’s painting, gardening, yoga, or any other hobby, finding an activity that you love can help you cope with the challenges of living with a chronic illness.
Remember, when choosing a hobby, it’s important to listen to your body and choose an activity that works for your energy levels and physical abilities. Don’t be afraid to start small and work your way up to more challenging activities. It’s also important to find a hobby that you enjoy and that brings you happiness and fulfillment.
