Free Hobbies
If there is one thing we have learned from quarantine it is that there is only so much Netflix binging, Instagram scrolling, and game playing that a person can take! Hobbies are lovely ways to fill your time and also your mind but finding one should not break the bank! Here are 7 hobbies that require little to no money!
Hiking
Hiking is a wonderful way to spend your free time. It gets your body moving and produces endorphins that improves your mood and increases energy levels. Being in nature also helps many people with anxiety, stress, and improves sleep quality.
Become an expert
Broad I know but it can also be as specific as you would like it to be! With the help of the internet, we legitimately have access to so much knowledge and you can learn anything with relatively little time or resources other than the internet. You could become an expert on braiding; learn about the history, different techniques, and watch Youtube videos so that you can learn how to braid hair on yourself or friends. Learn about the life cycle of ladybugs or dig into the history of Easter Island. Research how jewelry is made and try your hand at designing your own pieces with things you can find around your house. Everything that you have ever had a passing thought about could be worth investigating.
Read
There are many exotic, culturally rich destinations that books can take you with interesting characters to learn from along the way! Visit your local public library to pick out a 2-way ticket to the place of your dreams! Many libraries have audiobooks and ebooks collections online too so you don’t even have to leave the comfort of your room.
Birdwatching
I associate birdwatching with older people but the hobby has a big enough following that there is definitely something to it. Being able to recognize a bird flying above you at all times sounds pretty cool to me!
Arborist
My dad and grandpa know every tree and can tell me random facts about all of them. I think it is pretty nifty information to know. While it could be included in hobby #2, I put this one by itself because it requires some hands-on research by getting outside and interacting with trees, their leaves, flowers, and fruit. There are many fascinating things to be learned about trees, like how they communicate with each other!
Write
Write about everything or nothing at all; you could work on a novel, journal, or write poetry. Writing helps to fill time and also provides an opportunity to get emotions out or be creative!
Tourist
This is the one that I know you are going to fight. How can you be a tourist without spending money?! By researching and planning of course! Find free activities or events in your town and go a couple hours early to explore the surrounding areas, bring your lunch from home and eat it outside while people-watching. With a little effort, an entirely free touristy day can be a reality!
