In today’s hectic world, it’s more important than ever to find ways to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. Not only does being in nature have health benefits, but it can also be a great way to relax and de-stress. Outdoor hobbies offer the perfect incentive to get outside, learn new skills and strengthen relationships.
Benefits of Being Outdoors
Being outdoors has many health benefits and can improve your mental wellbeing. Here are a few of them:
- Being in nature can reduce stress and anxiety.
- It can enhance mental clarity and focus.
- Being outdoors can boost your immune system.
- Sunlight can help increase Vitamin D levels, which is essential for healthy bones and your immune system.
- Fresh air can help improve breathing problems and asthma symptoms.
- Nature is good for you. Spending time in outdoor spaces can benefit your mental health, comfort and wellbeing.
- Outdoor space provides opportunities for physical activity that are not available at home or work.
Benefits of Starting Outdoor Hobbies
When you choose to take up new outdoor hobbies, there are many benefits to be gained. Here are just a few:
- New hobbies can help you learn new skills and meet new people.
- They can help keep you mentally and physically active, improving your overall health and wellbeing.
- Hobbies can give you a sense of purpose and provide you with something to look forward to.
- They can be a great way to relax and unwind after a busy day or week.
If you’re looking for a new outdoor hobby to take up in 2022, here are a few ideas to get you started!
Hiking
Hiking is a great outdoor hobby to take up in 2022. It’s a great way to get some exercise, and it also provides an opportunity to see some beautiful scenery. There are hiking trails worldwide, so you can find one that’s close to home or that takes you to some fantastic places.
If you’ve never hiked before, start by doing some shorter trails and gradually work your way up to longer ones. Take along plenty of drinks and snacks, and always be aware of your surroundings. It’s also a good idea to carry a map and compass with you in case you get lost and make sure your mobile phone has plenty of battery.
Kayaking
Kayaking is similar to canoeing, but it involves a slightly different boat and paddles. Kayaking can be done on rivers, lakes or oceans, making it easy to find a suitable location close to home.
Kayaking can help build strength and endurance, as well as improve coordination. It’s also a great outdoor activity to participate in with friends or family, which can help you enjoy the fresh air while spending quality time with the people you care about most.
If kayaking is your outdoor hobby of choice, make sure that you always wear a lifejacket. It’s also a good idea to take some snacks and water with you, as well as suncream if it’s sunny outside.
Beekeeping
Beekeeping is a great way to get outside and learn about a new topic.
Before you begin, you’ll need to take some time to learn the basics. Find out about the different types of bees, what they do, and how to care for them. It’s a good idea to join a beekeeping group or class, as this will allow you to learn from experienced beekeepers.
When keeping bees, it’s important to make sure that you have enough space for them. You’ll also need to set up a hive and purchase the necessary supplies. Make sure to check with your local council before starting beekeeping, as there may be specific laws in your area.
Camping
Going camping is a fun and exciting outdoor activity that allows you to spend quality time with friends and family. Spending time in the great outdoors can help reduce stress, improve memory function, and strengthen relationships. It’s also a great way to bond with your children, as they’ll likely love it!
Make sure you always camp somewhere suitable for everyone attending and check what facilities are available before you arrive. If you’re new to outdoor camping, start by going on short trips near your home until you get the hang of it.
When it comes to camping, you’ll need to purchase a lot of different equipment when you first start out. This includes a tent, sleeping bags, and a stove. It’s also essential to pack plenty of food and water, as well as suncream, insect repellent and a first aid kit.
Stargazing
Stargazing is a great alternative outdoor hobby to take up in 2022. Not only does it allow you to enjoy the beauty of the night sky, but it also helps you learn about the universe.
If you’re new to stargazing, start by learning the basics. Which season offers the best views of the sky? What are some constellations, and how do you spot them? You can start with learning these primary stargazing tips before trying out more advanced astronomy.
Once you’ve done some research online or read books on stargazing, get outside and try it yourself! Take along your friends and family so that they can learn something new too. Stargazing will not only help you appreciate the beauty of the stars, but it will also help you go back to a simpler time.
Stargazing can be done anywhere that’s far from city lights. Many stargazing enthusiasts choose to camp in remote areas so that they can enjoy a sky full of stars without being disturbed by light pollution, so perhaps you can combine two new hobbies!
Carp Fishing
Carp fishing is the perfect hobby for anyone looking for something new and challenging for 2022. Not only will you be exercising, but you will also be able to travel, try new things and improve your mental wellbeing. It can be as quiet or as energetic as you want, so it is perfect for those who don’t always have heaps of time on their hands. You can find carp in many different bodies of water, so there are plenty of fishing opportunities available. It’s essential to have the landowners permission to fish in private lakes and ponds.
When you go carp fishing, you’ll need a few basic supplies. The most important item is a good quality carp fishing rod. There are plenty of different rods to choose from, so you will need to find the one that’s best suited for your needs.
You’ll also need a reel, line, and some hooks. Make sure you also buy a tackle box to store all of your new gear. This can be a simple plastic box or something more elaborate. Finally, you’ll need a good quality pair of waders. Carp can get pretty big, so you’ll want to be prepared for anything. Make sure the waders fit well and are comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
Carp fishing bait is an essential part of the sport, and there are many different types to choose from. Some anglers prefer to use natural bait, while others prefer to use artificial lures. Of course, both methods have pros and cons, so experiment with the different types of bait and see which you prefer.
Photography
Photography is a good choice for those looking for a hobby that allows them to be outdoors. Not only does it allow you to capture beautiful scenery, but it also helps you learn about the world around you. If you’re looking for outdoor photography ideas, places such as forest trails or national parks are good options.
If you’re new to photography, start by learning the fundamentals. Learn about the various types of photography, and experiment with different settings, techniques and lenses. It’s also a good idea to find a mentor who can help guide you in the right direction or a photography class to learn the basics.
When choosing a camera, you’ll want to choose one that’s lightweight and easy to carry so you can easily keep it with you when out – don’t forget to pack extra batteries or a charged power bank. It’s also a good idea to take a tripod with you, as this will help you capture sharper photos.
When taking photos outdoors, always be aware of your surroundings. Make sure to check the weather before heading out, so you can bring the appropriate gear, such as a raincoat.
Geocaching
Geocaching is a treasure hunting game that uses GPS coordinates to find hidden caches. The caches can contain anything from toys and trinkets to money and jewellery.
Geocaching can be enjoyed by all ages and is a great way to get some exercise while exploring new places with your family. You can find geocaches worldwide, so there are plenty of opportunities to explore.
To participate in geocaching, you will need a GPS device or smartphone. However, there are many different geocaching apps available, so you will have no trouble finding one that suits your needs.
Once you find the geocache, you can take whatever treasures it contains, although you are under no obligation to do so. Make sure you replace whatever you take with an equal or higher value item, as geocaching should be seen as a trade. For example, some people leave trinkets or handmade crafts, while others swap money. This is where the real fun lies; trying to find a cache with something that you want inside.
Keep Free-Range Chickens
Keeping free-range chickens is a great way to spend time outdoors. Not only that, but you’ll also be helping the environment by reducing your reliance on factory-farmed eggs.
Chickens are easy to care for, and they can be kept in various settings. You can easily set up a chicken coop and run if you have some outdoor space.
When keeping free-range chickens, it’s crucial to provide them with a suitable environment. They need a place to roost, scratch, and nest. They should also have access to fresh water and food at all times.
You will also need to familiarise yourself with the different chicken breeds, which can be found online or in books. Some breeds are better layers than others, so make sure you find out the egg-laying potential of each breed.
To get started looking after free-range chickens, visit your local feed store and talk to an expert. They will be able to answer any queries you have about keeping chickens.
Final Thoughts on Outdoor Hobbies
There are many different outdoor hobbies to choose from, so there’s something for everyone. So whether you’re looking for a new activity to keep you busy in 2022, you want to try new outdoor hobbies for the health and wellbeing benefits, or you simply want to find more ways to enjoy nature, there’s sure to be an activity suitable for you.
I’d love to hear what new outdoor hobbies you’ve decided to start in 2022! Please get in touch to let me know!
