THE ADAGE New Year, New Me is often heard at this time of year.
For many it means the start of a health kick, with a new diet and joining the gym to get into shape after a festive season of enjoying a few extra treats which have seen the scales tip slightly.
For others it could be creating a bucket list of things to do in a year and ticking them off from travelling to picking up a new hobby and increasing personal wellbeing.
So here’s a few ideas to add to the bucket list.
Gardening
Gardening does not mean having a big space and fancy equipment – it could start with a few plants in a small space like a window box.
For the novice gardener start with plants or flowers that are easy to grow, your favourites, or even edible ones like strawberries, salad leaves or tomatoes so you can see how with your care and attention they grow.
Watching the plants grow is a good choice of a hobby as it can help clear the mind, especially after difficult days.
Music
Music can stir up emotions and being back memories. Listening to it can also reduce stress and anxiety.
The benefits of music continue beyond just listening to it. Anyone can achieve a sense of accomplishment and fun from learning how to play an instrument. These excellent hobbies boost mental health as it helps process emotions, express feelings, and connect with others.
Cooking or baking
It can often be hard to find the time and energy to cook from scratch, but the benefits of a home-cooked meal go beyond just nutrition.
Time spent in the kitchen provides countless opportunities for introspection and meditative practice, which benefits both the mind and the body.
By cooking food that’s nutritious and nourishing – or event a little treat – you’re sending yourself the message that you’re worth caring for, and that you’re important.
Volunteering
Life is busy and it can be difficult to find the time or energy to add more to the schedule.
But volunteering doesn’t have to be a big act it can be something small like being a phone befriender for the elderly or using the skills from your day job to help others who are struggling.
One of the best ways to get the most out of volunteering is to commit your time to a cause you’re truly passionate about by doing something you enjoy.
As well as improving self-esteem, acts like giving gifts or volunteering allow people to connect with others on a deeper level. It also creates a sense of belonging in a community.
