Summer is almost a distant memory for some, and fall is soon upon us, with a crispness in the air and beautiful leaves soon to be a rainbow of colors, reminding us all of the changing of the seasons. With that change comes a bit extra time at night indoors for most, as it’s dark out earlier than the summer gave to us, and many take to more indoor activities like reading, writing, crocheting, sewing, knitting, cooking and playing games. If you’re looking for something to occupy your time this fall, consider these ways to treat yourself and make your life a bit more interesting:
- Take up a new hobby. If you read the short list above and had a thought of “that sounds interesting, people still do that?” then perhaps it’s time you check out a few local crafting groups or classes at your nearest library or art studio. Many art supply stores also provide educational experiences as a foundation to get people started in the right direction in arts and crafts of many varieties. The handmade movement has birthed a whole subculture of people that knit, crochet, sew, paint, mold, and otherwise craft things in their spare time. Connecting with your hands to create something is an amazing feeling, even when it’s not quite what you had in mind. Practicing an activity makes the worries of life seem to vanish if just for a bit, as you get lost in your new hobby. And, don’t be afraid to try a few different things before you find yours, as everything is not for everyone. It might not even be on this list, as anything enjoyable can be a hobby, so get creative and seek out what you enjoy, and see what comes of it!
- Take some courses. Whether you enroll at your local university, take some dance classes, yoga classes, or an online health course, learning engages the brain in a very healthy and life-changing way. Learning, whether academically or physically, is good for keeping young, healthy, engaged and active in life. Taking online courses is easy and can be done from any device now, and the options of available subjects are seemingly infinite. From formal coursework at universities, to self-published courses from individuals that have expertise in a subject area, you can really take it upon yourself to learn anything. Some take courses for pure enjoyment, while some take courses to further their careers and get certifications in a specialized field. Whatever your motivation and curiosity, take it upon yourself to explore what’s available that you’re interested in, and see where a bit of education takes you!
- Refresh your living space. This doesn’t have to be an expensive redecorating overhaul, or an entirely stressful event. It can be as simple as organizing a closet or cluttered space, and opening some windows for an afternoon breeze. Changing of the seasons can bring extra energy and a revitalized outlook on life, and what’s a better way to celebrate than refreshing our home? If you’re the type that has seasonal decorations, perhaps you can light a candle and put on some nice music while you redecorate for a few hours. If you’re simply needing to spend a weekend organizing and clearing out the clutter to bring in some new energy, take some time and set your intentions while you prepare to do just that. Our homes are our safe spaces, and we sometimes forget to honor that. Taking a bit of time to reset and refresh your living space can make your whole life feel different, in the best way!
This fall can be your time to pick an area of your life to focus on, and pick a hobby, or refresh your living space, or take an online course to learn something new! Online classes are as easy as listening or watching a video or audio course, or reading the content, and learning something new! Whether learning something in a formalized manner, or through picking up a new hobby peaks your interest, it’s all worth exploring to elevate your life this fall!
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