Screens are all around us. If we’re not in front of a computer for work, we’re browsing our phones or watching television.
While I’ve got nothing against a good Netflix session (who else has a secret soft spot for Jake Peralta?), there are times when we all need a break from the screen. Taking up a screen-free hobby can be a great way to relax, refresh and reset.
Below are twenty hobby ideas to get you started in pursuit of your new favourite leisure activity.
1. Take up embroidery
Totally grandma, I know, but I love sitting down to some embroidery. You can do it while listening to podcasts/music or even while watching TV. There are embroidery kits out there to help you get started, and once you’ve got the hang of it, the sky is the limit.
2. Learn to sew your own clothes
This is so much fun. If you’ve always wanted to get clothes to fit just right, or dream of an outfit you just can’t fine, this is the hobby for you. Start small and build yourself up. There’s a huge community of sewers out there, so there’s plenty of friendly people to guide you through the basics and into detailed construction.
3. Learn to crochet or knit
Admittedly, my knitting skills are poor and I can’t crochet at all. But that’s not to say you can’t! I have enjoyed knitting simple projects in the past, as it gives you something to focus on while still letting your mind rest.
4. Journal
I love this hobby and could wax lyrical about the benefits all day. If you want to know why it’s da bom, check out this handy dandy article.
5. Take up calligraphy or hand lettering
While mastering the art of calligraphy can seem daunting, it really doesn’t have to be. There are loads of online and printed resources you can use to help you get started on your new favourite hobby. Pro tip (so obviously not my original): don’t think of it as handwriting, think of it as art. If your handwriting isn’t great, it doesn’t really matter.
6. Start a scrapbook
This is a great way to preserve your favourite memories. Print out your favourite photos to save them from vanishing into your cloud and get scrap booking. Make it as detailed or simple as you like. You’ll really appreciate the effort when you can look back years later at these beautifully presented memories.
7. Adopt an indoor herb garden
It doesn’t have to be a herb garden, although they are arguably super useful as well as aesthetic. Really any plant that’s happy indoors can be your next screen free hobby.
8. Or for those with backyards, try a garden on a bigger scale
If you have an actual garden, now is the time to embrace your space! Give your existing garden a good weed and prune. Add more plants, maybe design yourself a little patio or seating arrangement. The options are endless, and come with some nice exercise benefits as well.
9. Learn to bake
Breads, biscuits, scones and cakes. Not only will you feel accomplished having mastered a new skill, but you’ll be everyone’s favourite person. You can return to your favourite show after a refreshing baking session, this time with snacks in tow.
10. Make jams, relishes or pickled anything
Making a good relish or pickle is a real art. Revive this old home-making art and enjoy the screen free benefits as well a the delicious results. Making your own relishes, pickles and preserves means you can avoid the added sugars, extra fats and other preservatives that often accompany our favourite store-bought toppings.
11. Take a pilates class
Get toned and release stress in one go. Feels like a win to me! I really enjoy workouts from Blogilates. There are tonnes of free workouts on her YouTube channel, so you can do a class without paying a cent. Thanks Cassey!
12. Paint or draw in one of the many mediums out there
Don’t worry, you don’t have to be an amazing artist to enjoy painting or drawing. Settling down with your chosen medium to create can be deeply relaxing. The break that this gives your brain could also spark further creativity or help you solve a problem in a totally different area of your life. Give it a go, you might be surprised how talented you really are.
13. Take up an adult colouring book
I secretly love these. Colouring neatly within the lines with a rich Texta makes me feel what Nero must have felt during his house fire-fiddling episode. Let the world burn, I’m in my own little world of pure relaxation.
14. Find a dance class and jump right in
Dancing is a lot of fun, but it’s also a great way to get in some cardio. Look up some dance classes in your local area and check out their beginner’s classes. If you’re not yet ready to face the music in public, you could always learn dancing from YouTube in the comfort of your own home.
15. DIY beauty products like bath bombs or hair masks
Making your own beauty products can be a lot of fun and also save you money. There are loads of recipes out there that use pretty basic pantry staples. I’ve tried this coconut mask for dry hair before with great success, and I’m so curious to give these a go.
16. Find a pen pal and write letters to each other
This is a lot of fun, and you get to make someone else happy into the bargain! It’s also an excuse to get yourself some new stationary, and who can ever say no to that?
17. Read, read, read.
You can’t knock this tried and true hobby. If you’re looking for recommendations, we’ve got you covered with a whole series of Book Club articles. So Check. Them. Out.
18. Grab a camera (or your phone) and practice your photography
Okay, this might technically mean some screen time. But you’re no longer passively scrolling, you’re creating! Grabbing your camera and heading out to capture something beautiful is a great way to get creative. There’s also the added bonus of the walking you’ll do if you are heading outside for your photo shoot.
19. Teach yourself to do nail art
This is a great one, because you can have a lot of fun and save yourself some serious dough. There are lots of great resources out there to teach yourself how to do some basic nail art. If you’re new to doing your own nails, maybe start with a simple mani.
20. Try your brain at crosswords, word finds and suduko puzzles
Big Nana energy, but it’s a nice way to work out your brain without the screen. You can also turn this into a social event and get the whole family involved in solving puzzles together.
