As you might guess, I’m a massive homebody. It’s why I started this site – because I love being at home, and I want to make it a special space for myself and my family.
Well, I know there are a lot of people who don’t feel the same way. Plenty of people just love being out and about all the time. And while that has its place, I do think there’s a lot to be said for learning to enjoy some quiet time at home, even for extraverts.
For a start, home based hobbies tend to be cheaper! Also, it’s so good for the soul to spend time by yourself in a quiet place and recharge.
So here are my four top hobbies for homebodies that I would recommend to anyone looking for ways to relax at home. What are yours?
Reading
Like many of us, I was a big reader when I was a teenager but I soon dropped out of the habit as I got older and the pressures of adult life built up! Which is crazy when you think about it, because reading is one of the best and most accessible ways to relax. It’s cheap (even free, as I will explain!), you can do it anywhere, and it’s true escapism.
Recently I picked up the habit again. One thing that has made a huge difference is reading digital books instead of paperbacks. Yes, I know that some people just love the feel and smell of a real book, but if you find it hard to make time to read then give it a go and you might be surprised. I do have a Kindle but I read mostly on apps on my phone and I find I read way more this way, because my phone is always handy whereas my Kindle might not be!
Another thing that made a difference is discovering the Libby library app. All you need is a library card (just pop into your local library with ID to pick one up if you don’t already), then you can register on the Libby app and borrow any e-book in your local library’s network for free. I found I read more this way because it’s free, I can experiment with different books and authors more and there is no pressure – if you don’t get on with a book, just return it and try another, nobody’s judging!
Games
Games are one of the classic hobbies for homebodies. Whether it’s a classic board game you can play with the family, a simple Solitaire card game or an online game, there are so many different types of games and there is something for everyone.
There are plenty of websites now where you can access online games. This site is free, has an incredible library of over 2,000 games and they are constantly adding more!
Recently I have got into simple business simulation games such as this one where you get to work in a fairy flower shop. Isn’t it cute? As you progress through the levels it does get challenging but it’s not stressful like many modern computer games. I like that it’s family friendly too, so my little one can come and watch me play.
They have lots of other simulation games such as a pizza shop and air traffic control, as well as classics such as Tetris inspired games, Minesweeper and anything else you can think of! I recommend Plays.org if you like simple, retro games that are not addictive.
Colouring
Colouring is not just for children, don’t you know! Adult colouring emerged as a trend a few years ago but I believe it’s here to stay. It just has so many incredible benefits for your mental health (such as reduced stress and anxiety).
Like many hobbies, this is one you can get sucked into as your skills and interests develop. All you really need to get started is a colouring page (and there are free ones online) and a cheap pack of pencils or pens.
But if you want to take it further, you will find a whole world of fancy art materials awaiting you, and there are loads of YouTube tutorials of colouring techniques to learn, like this one from Sarah Renae Clark.
This is a fantastic hobby to do at home because you can learn something and express your creativity at the same time.
Baking
Perhaps one of the ultimate hobbies for homebodies. Not only does it keep you occupied and fed, it also makes your home smell amazing!
Whether you prefer savoury snacks, sweet treats or perhaps you want to delve into the world of home made bread, this is another ideal hobby to do at home with endless avenues to explore. You can start relatively cheaply and easily with simple ingredients that can be found at your local supermarket, but once you catch the bug and unleash your inner GBBO contestant, there’s no end to the taste combinations you can develop with all kinds of fancy ingredients from around the globe!
An added bonus is that your family, neighbours and coworkers will be very happy when you take up this hobby.
Are you a homebody? What’s your favourite hobby to do at home? Please share in the comments so we can all get in on the fun!
Cover image: Photo by Omar Prestwich on Unsplash