Oh, the joys of retirement living!
You’re at a stage in life when—like never before—you’re able to “call your own shots”; to do WHAT you want to do, WHEN you want to do it. Somewhat ironically, it’s a time rich in possibilities … specifically because you now have the luxury of time.
To paraphrase Shakespeare (who, as always, said it best): The world is your oyster.
At Southgate at Shrewsbury retirement community, we encourage all our residents to seize this opportunity. Now’s your chance to explore activities that can open new avenues of discovery and enrichment, ignite an untapped passion, or simply introduce different ways to have plain-old fun.
For purposes of this blog, we’re going to avoid discussing “tried-and-true” retirement hobbies and instead focus on those that might be considered somewhat unusual or quirky.
Learn a foreign language. This activity represents a fascinating way to explore your own personal heritage. Perhaps you have letters or documents passed on by previous generations that are written in the language of the Old Country. What secrets they must hold! With a little time and effort, you’ll finally be able to understand the meaning behind grandma’s yellowed doodling.
Practice “alternative” exercises. Physical activity is healthy for everyone, and certain highly disciplined exercises offer unique ways to strengthen both body and mind—even for people well into their seventies and eighties. At Southgate at Shrewsbury, residents can reap enormous benefits taking structured classes in disciplines like Yoga, Tai Chi and Pilates—all of which can do wonders for your flexibility, mental discipline and meditative powers (which, by the way, are proven catalysts for deeper relaxation and improved quality of sleep). We also offer a Balance Workshop and a Flexibility and Balance Workshop, both of which can help enhance overall agility and confidence.
Learn card tricks. Playing cards is considered a staple of senior living (especially in our warm, inviting card and billiard room). But performing card tricks? Now THERE’S an area ripe for exploration. Sleight-of-hand and prestidigitation can astound your friends and neighbors and make you the instant hit at any social gathering. Just don’t divulge any of your secrets!
Write blogs. Nowadays, anyone with a viewpoint and a computer can post a blog—which is simply an article posted on the internet and targeted to readers holding similar interests. All it takes is choosing a subject that’s of interest to you (e.g., classic cars), doing research to strengthen your story, and making your article available to online viewers. For a sample blog, visit mycarquest.com.
Become a comedian. Always thought you had the gifts of a comic? Why not give it a shot? Try forming an improvisational comedy group with a few of your friends. It’s a great exercise in creativity (particularly if you’re confident enough to write your own jokes!), not to mention a time-honored test of bravery (after all, what could be more unnerving than when a joke falls flat and the only audience response is deafening silence?).
Learn to play an (unconventional) instrument. As we go through life, many of us pick up the basic skills required to “tickle the ivories” or play a song or two on the violin. But why not use the time you now have to “go crazy” and learn the fundamentals of a more unconventional instrument? The possibilities are virtually endless: Whether it’s the accordion, harmonica, xylophone, ukulele or kalimba, you’ll never know the innate talents you have until you give it a whirl. Check your library for music sheets, lesson books and leads on local instrument suppliers.
Communicate with the world through amateur radio. Also known as ham radio, amateur radio is continually attracting more and more operators. It’s a great way to expand your horizons—literally—without leaving the comfort of your home. For example, people use ham radio to talk across town, around the world, or even into outer space—all without the internet or cell phone. A good way for novices to start is to find a club in your area that can provide information on licensing, local operating practices and technical advice.
These are just a few suggestions. It’s a big, fascinating world out there—so use your imagination to think of other fun and unorthodox ways to use your (well-deserved) retirement years.