List of hobbies: rediscover passions and improve your lifestyle

Are you going through menopause and wondering what different activities can accompany it? Here's how to create a list of hobbies and make them help you maintain a healthy lifestyle. It's time to conquer new passions as you go through this stage! 

Menopause: the ideal time to explore a “new you” 

Loving yourself is always the first step to leading a full and happy life, even more so as you enter menopause! While it is a time of change, it also offers the opportunity to discover new possibilities. Therefore, you should not lose sight of your physical and emotional well-being (1). So, to take it your way, think about what inspires you most in your day-to-day life. Make the most of it!  

List of hobbies: physical and emotional benefits  

Trying out new hobbies can be both relaxing and comforting. On the one hand, it takes your mind off stressors; on the other, it offers something new to focus on (2). Also, physical activity is ideal for gaining muscle mass and promoting a balanced diet (2, 3). 

What are the main benefits of adopting a list of hobbies? (3) 

• Firstly, a positive attitude towards change is born. 

• The result is personal satisfaction and motivation. 

• You may potentially achieve a reduction of anxiety and low self-esteem. 

• Improvement of cognitive functions with hobbies that require mental concentration, such as chess. 

• Also, you will have greater energy and vitality.  

• Connecting with new people, friendships, and communities. 

List of hobbies to enjoy during menopause  

Certain changes in your routine can help you during menopause or perimenopause. For this reason, it is essential to decide what things you want to change in your life (4). Start by discovering new interests or revisiting old passions!  

Artistic activities: stimulate your mind  

Awaken your creativity with a variety of hobbies! Here are some examples (1, 5): 

• Creative writing: journaling is the most effective way to explore, even your innermost thoughts. It also encourages self-reflection. 

• Painting: express your feelings and ideas with colours, oils, or watercolours. There is something very liberating about letting your creative instincts take over! 

• Music: learning to play an instrument not only improves your cognitive skills, it is also very relaxing. 

• Mindfulness: discover workshops that help you focus on the present with this technique (6). It also reduces stress and mood swings. 

Physical activities: move your body  

What could be better than activating your energy with exercise and entertainment? (3, 6). Here are some examples of activities: 

• Dance: release endorphins and shake off laziness by dancing to your favourite songs.  

• Gardening: ideal if you want to spend more time outdoors, it improves your sleep quality! 

• Yoga or Pilates: excellent options to nourish your mind and body and improve your breathing! 

• Sports or leisurely walks: divide your weekly exercise into short daily sessions. This way, you will improve your cardiovascular health. 

Tips for an exciting hobby list  

Once you've defined your hobby list, it's important to think outside the box, so you don't fall into a rut. To do this, reflect on these questions and find new interests (2, 5): 

• What language have you always wanted to learn? Do it now and expand your opportunities! 

• What city or country is still on your bucket list? Look for advice on travelling and exploring new cultures. 

• Do you have a support network? Reach out to those people who motivate you to grow. 

• What's the makeover you're still dreaming of? Try different hairstyles for mature ladies.  

• Do you have a self-care routine? You can include face masks. 

How to make sure you stick to your list of hobbies?  

Motivation to learn is essential, especially in menopause, a natural stage within the ageing process (7). Take advantage of this inner journey to manifest what you want in your life in the medium and long term! 

Here we share some keys to move from paper to practice (1): 

• First, don't be afraid to reinvent yourself. 

• Second, be consistent with your goals. 

• Starting is always difficult; do it little by little.  

• Also, find the time to enjoy yourself. 

• Most important: follow your passions. If you love movies, why not create a movie blog or podcast? 

Do you feel motivated to rediscover your tastes and interests? This could be the year you finish your novel or that painting you want to hang in your room. Remember: the first step is to make time for yourself and open your mind to endless possibilities. Make your list of hobbies! 

Referencias Bibliográficas 

1. MenoLabs. Your new-you begins at menopause [Internet]. MenoLabs; 2022. [cited 2024 June 28]. Available from: https://menolabs.com/blogs/menolife/your-new-you-begins-at-menopause  
2. Sherrell Z. 13 natural ways to lower your cortisol levels [Internet]. Medical News today; 2024. [cited 2024 June 28]. Available from: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322335 
3. Haskey J. Finding time for you [Internet]. The Menopause Charity; 2023. [cited 2024 June 28]. Available from: https://www.themenopausecharity.org/2023/05/03/finding-time-for-you/  
4. NHS UK. Menopause: things you can do [Internet]. UK: NHS; 2022. [cited 2024 June 28]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/menopause/things-you-can-do/  
5. Elelman S. Importance of hobbies for over 50s [Internet]. Australian Menopause Centre; 2022. [cited 2024 June 28]. Available from: https://www.menopausecentre.com.au/importance-of-hobbies-for-over-50s  
6. Menopause: a healthy lifestyle guide [Internet]. Cambridge University Hospitals; 2021. [cited 2024 June 28]. Available from: https://www.cuh.nhs.uk/patient-information/menopause-a-healthy-lifestyle-guide/    
7. Casper K, Khalife T. Menopause: a natural part of aging [Internet]. Mayo Clinic Health System; 2023. [cited 2024 June 28]. Available from: https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/menopause-ensuring-a-tranquil-transition