This is the last article of five in the Understanding the Introvert series. I thought it would be fun to look at different hobbies that might be enjoyable for introverts. Not to say that extroverts don’t enjoy these same hobbies, but introverts look for hobbies that will cater to our creativity, our sense of self, and our ability to harmonize and be at peace with the space around us. Hobbies allow us to show who we are in a positive way. They also allow us to recharge! So let’s explore, shall we?
Get your art on! I have to admit, I love art. For introverts, art is an expression of not only self but ideals, and passion from within. If you have the ability to paint, draw, sculpt or any other artistic talent along these lines count yourself blessed! Watching someone whip out a drawing and then shrug and say they were just doodling blows my mind! I’m lucky if I can get a stick figure to look half way descent. This type of art takes imagination, and brings to life whatever the artist is picturing allowing others to take part in that very intimate piece of their creativity. Oh and sculpting or pottery…being able to take a material – whether clay, ice, wood, stone – and transform it into a unique vision is awe inspiring. There are so many different forms of art. It includes writing, crafting, photography and sewing. Oh, and don’t forget about making music! The ability to play an instrument, or produce music on a computer, is an art that seems to come from the soul. The best part about art as a hobby, is sharing the outcome with others!
Connecting with Mother Nature! Nothing is more relaxing or awe inspiring than being outside experiencing nature in it’s raw form. However, you don’t have to go out into the middle of nowhere to find that connection. There are many hobbies that are right up an introvert’s alley that fall into this category. Camping, taking a walk through a nearby nature center, or bird watching are ways to be intertwined with your environment. Even hunting and fishing are ways to tune into the natural world. My favorite way to connect with nature is to garden. I love the smell of fresh dirt, and the feel of it between my fingers. The ability to place a seedling in the ground and watch it grow producing flowers or fresh food to eat that’s healthy for me and my family. It’s a satisfying experiencing.
Finding inner peace. As an introvert, I tend to have an empty tank by day’s end. I love a hobby that will allow me to focus on peace, tranquility, and calm. Being able to sit in a quite house, with minimal noise helps me lower my stress levels and anxiety. Sometimes, we need a hobby that just allows us to breathe. There are several hobbies that you can do to promote this calming of the mind and body. First, meditation. You may wonder how this is a hobby. Well, by definition, a hobby is an activity that we enjoy doing in our free time. Meditation allows you to empty out the negativity and fill the space with positive vibes It rejuvenates. Along the same lines is yoga. Yoga not only allows the calming of your mind, but also brings the body into the mix. It will increase flexibility, balance, muscle tone, and reduce stress. If yoga isn’t your thing, there is also Tai Chi. Tai Chi also involves the mind and body, is easier for older adults, and has many health benefits. Connecting at a spiritual level is also an option. Taking time to sit and pray, reflect, study and grow spiritually will fill you with joy, purpose, and help re-energize the soul.
Touch on the culinary arts! Cooking can be a fun hobby. It will also let you break the monotony of figuring out what to cook all the time. One fun thing to try is different cultural or ethnic dishes. Try anything from Vietnamese pho to Mexican menudo or English steak and kidney pie. Try to rediscover old family recipes, or find online classes or videos on how to make dishes. I have traveled quit a bit and food is one way to get to know that region you are visiting. And Lord knows I have tried some fantastic food! Recently I’ve been caught up in learning about ancient recipes. I have been watching Ancient Recipes with Sohla on the History channel (also on YouTube) and it’s been delightful. Cooking allows our creativity to flow! Try other things like learning to can foods, or baking breads, cakes, cupcakes. It’s so much fun to try new things.
Try something new or unusual! There are so many things out there and available today. Introverts who love to be at home might love subscription games. I have been a member of one for over 3 years now. I’m addicted. You solve a murder but it’s not that simple. You have clues, videos, audio tapes, messages, police reports, evidence of all types…and you have to figure out things like time of death, or murder weapon, clearing suspects and ultimately naming the killer. It’s very immersive and can be done by yourself or with friends and family. It is so much fun! Escape rooms, there are online games, board games, or actual places to go and use your analytical skills to escape. Another favorite hobby of mine is tracing my roots. I have gotten into genealogy and it’s been a journey I didn’t expect. I’ve found some surprises too. Fascinating stuff! I am a person who loves to learn and do new things so another hobby that might interest introverts is to learn a new language. There are many apps out there that will teach you with mini lessons per day. Some can be very expensive, others not so much. But they are fun to try. One last hobby suggestion, and probably something the majority of us do anyway, read! I have given away books, sold books, put books on a kindle and still have books stuffed everywhere in my home. Reading is an escape. An adventure. A thrill. And a very fun hobby.
Introverts aren’t so different! Hobbies near and dear to our hearts allow us to use our creativity, allows us to recharge and gives us the boost we need. I’d love to hear what your favorite hobbies are! If you’d like to share, you can go find me on facebook at PondersingsofanIntrovert.com or send me a comment here on this site. So whatever your favorite hobby is, relax and enjoy!
