Woodworking
There is research that people who have hobbies are generally
healthier both mentally and physically. Don't have a hobby or
pastime? Hang in there, I'll give you some ideas and places to go
toward the end of this article.
The dictionary defines a hobby as an activity done regularly in
one's leisure time for pleasure It's not something you have to
do, but rather something you want to do. Michael Brickey, author
of "Defy Aging," says that an ideal hobby would be one that
serves three purposes: a diversion (escape from daily life), a
passion (engage in something you love) and a creation of a sense
of purpose.
What Are the Benefits?
Many of us lead a frenetic lifestyle - either at work or at home.
A hobby allows us to "take a break". This is especially true if
you have a scheduled pastime. Going bowling every Wednesday night
or playing Pinochle on Saturdays gives us something to look
forward to during the week. If you have a social hobby you can
get even more benefit. We are social beings and interacting with
one another is another great benefit. Mixing and networking with
others can be a great source of news, information and
opportunities.
There are physical benefits to be had with hobbies. The pleasure
and relaxation we get from these efforts can lower blood
pleasure, reduce stress and provide other psychological benefits.
Doing new things will also develop other parts of your brain and
this can be crucially important as we age.
"I Don't Have the Time"
This may be the biggest impediment to having and enjoying a
hobby. It does not have to be a problem. Scheduling is the most
important step you can take. For some pastimes it is easier
(Wednesday night bowling). For others you need to carve out some
time and make the effort to keep on schedule. You will find that
after a few repetitions it will become a habit.
Spending Money
Some hobbies can get expensive if you are not careful. Buying
expensive equipment or buying expensive collectibles can quickly
cost you more than time. If you need to buy equipment look for
used items from friends, Craigslist or eBay. Once you know you
truly need or want the more expensive items your money will then
be better spent.
Making Money
Let's not forget this other facet of a hobby. Perhaps you are
into woodworking. After a while you get skilled at making pieces.
It is not at all unreasonable to think about selling your work.
This can make your hobby even more enjoyable (and you can then
buy that really cool lathe you had your eye on).
Where Do I Begin?
Perhaps you would like to start a hobby or enjoy a new pastime.
How do you get started?
No matter your interests you can find a hobby or pastime for your
enjoyment. So follow an inspiration or an interest and pursue a
hobby or pastime. You will benefit in many ways - not the least
of which will be that you will enjoy life that much more.
Where Do I Go From Here?
Find your inspiration and learning at some of these locations.
Please check for dates, times and fees.
Northampton Community College
This institution has perhaps the largest collection of classes
aimed at those who want to a pastime or hobby. Classes span arts,
crafts and hobbies. Some of their offerings are jewelry,
painting, photography, pottery, cooking, canning, dance, tai chi,
, music, sewing, woodworking, languages, travel, writing and
many, many others. For more information go to
https://lifelearn.northampton.edu/modules/
Lehigh Carbon Community College
Classes include computer training, cooking, chorale singing and
fitness. For information go to: www.lccc.edu
Hanover Township Community Center
Art Workshops for Adults - 5-week workshops cover basics and
allow students to progress at their own pace. Adult Dance, Basic
Ballet and Jazz are available. Basic Computer Classes,
Buying/Selling on Ebay, music lessons in beginner piano,
woodwind, and brass. For more info:
hanovercommunitycenter.com/
Lower Macungie Township
Dance - Ballroom or Latin Partner, Learn To Draw, Advanced
Drawing Skills, Garden Club, Home Staging, Interior
Design/Redesign 101, Pilates, Powerhouse Fitness Tai Chi,
Walkercise, Yoga. For more info:
lowermac.com/parkrec_programs_community_center.cfm
ArtsQuest
ArtsQuest has a long list of classes for adults as well as for
children. Adult classes include drawing and painting,
photography, ceramics, glass blowing and jewelry.
For more info: www.bananafactory.org/classes/
Woodcraft of Allentown
Woodcraft offers an extensive list of courses at all levels
geared towards those interested in woodworking. A sample of the
classes: tool sharpening, woodturning, cabinet construction,
plate and bowl turning and hand-applied finishes.
For more info: www.woodcraft.com/stores/store.aspx?id=567
Baum School of Art
Baum offers classes in ceramics, computers, drawing, fashion,
illustration, jewelry, painting, photography and sculpture.
More info: www.baumschool.org/class-schedules-main.php
Lehigh Valley Active Life (formerly Lehigh Valley Senior
Center)
The center offers a wide range of activities and classes. A
sampling:
Cooking, computer training, IPad classes, painting, arts and
crafts, dance, fitness, yoga, tai chi, aerobics, car games
including bridge and pinochle, quilting, history, music, chorus
and jazz. For more info: www.lehighseniors.org/
For more information, contact:
Lifestyles over 50
4847 Hamilton Boulevard
Allentown, PA 18106
855-233-7034
sales@lifestylesover50.com