“Everybody needs a hobby.” You’ve no doubt heard this phrase before, but did you know how true it can be? Research strongly suggests that doing something we enjoy regularly can reduce stress, in turn helping us to improve our mental wellbeing.
Additionally, focusing on an activity unrelated to work and the everyday often rejuvenates us, allowing us to return to our duties feeling refreshed. But cost can very often be a barrier. If you’re trying to keep to a budget, hobbies can easily get crossed off the list as you probably don’t consider them an essential expense.
But what if there was a way to enjoy your favourite pastime without breaking the bank? Read our tips to see how you can do it.
- Take advantage of starter deals
It really is never too late to start a hobby! If you want to take on a new pastime, you can probably do so at a reduced rate. Whether you’re looking for guitar or swimming lessons, it’s likely that your local teaching centre will offer a cheap introductory package, in order to attract new students.
That way, you get to try something new without having to commit financially or pay a large amount upfront.
- Organise activities by yourself
Who said that you need to pay to enjoy group hobbies? If you want to develop your skills in a particular field, you could always organise meet ups yourself.
Thanks to social media, you can easily connect with fellow enthusiasts within your local area. To begin, either create a page or event that’s dedicated to organising a session in your preferred activity. Alternatively, if you simply post that you’d like to set up a group through your online profile, you may be surprised by how many people respond.
Don’t forget to state your level of ability at all stages of the organisation process, to ensure you only attract people at the same level as you.
- Teach yourself
Want a really cost-effective way to unwind? How about coaching yourself? Whether it’s to improve your skills in an existing hobby or teaching yourself something completely new, video platforms like YouTube feature a host of tutorials on various topics, from instrument playing to yoga. If you’d rather learn away from home, try listening to subject-specific apps. Duolingo, for example, offers a free way to learn a language. On the other hand, free mindfulness apps provide a simple way to relax during your spare time.
Now that you know how, you needn’t pay to enjoy a worthwhile hobby. What’s to stop you from honing your skills for less?
*Colloborative post*