Baking

Let’s start off with something that’s almost become synonymous with quarantine: the art of baking. It has been around since the dawn of civilization, with the first loaves baked by the ancient Egyptians around the year 31,000 BC. 

For those new to baking, cookies are a great way to start. Simple to make (and eat as well), cookies are something that everyone enjoys snacking on. A simple and delicious recipe by BBC can be found here. For the more experienced bakers, try your hand at making the ever so popular “Sourdough Loaf”!

Knitting

We’ve seen it in every movie and T.V show with an elderly grandparent, the signature image of two sticks working a length of yarn into a brightly coloured scarf or jumper. Knitting is a popular pastime that has withstood the test of time with one historian suggesting that Ancient Egypt may have been the origin. So, knit up a sweater before the winter comes with this simple guide. 

Reading

This one needs no introduction. Ever since the creation of the written word, writers have been constructing tales that encapsulate and entertain readers. From Shakespeare’s plays to the modern era of literature, we can all agree that we like to read. 

Paperback, hardcover or digital, reading is a delightful thing to do. Given the current circumstances, online book clubs are becoming more and more common, so you have plenty of opportunities to discuss your favourite works. So why not pick up the novel that’s been collecting dust on your shelf? Give it a thought, will ya?

If you don’t have any books handy, just log on to OpenLibrary for free books to peruse through.

Learn A Musical Instrument

We’ve all been there (probably), having the sudden wish to just pick up a guitar and start playing perfectly. But, since playing a musical instrument without any proper practice is going to result in something not quite pleasing to the ear, a lot of time and effort needs to be spent in order for you to be playing like a prodigy. There are several instruments that you can begin learning to play on your own. 

Truth be told, this is one of the more costly hobbies as you’d need to buy your own instrument (if you already don’t have one). 

For the aspiring guitarists and ukulele players reading this, I’d recommend starting with basic chords and maybe a simple song or two (Hey There Delilah and Riptide). For the pianists out there along with anyone looking to learn music theory, here’s a Youtube channel worth checking out!

Seeing as how we’ll be having more spare time than usual in the foreseeable future, why not pick up one of these hobbies? Who knows? You might find yourself a new activity to help you cope in these trying times.