If you’re a mom, then you have a full-time job, and you’re bound to need a little break. You might find yourself looking for ways to let loose and have a little bit of fun, without breaking the bank.
After all, it’s hard to enjoy yourself when money is a stressor.
Fortunately, there are plenty of hobbies for moms on a budget; just take a look at these 11 inexpensive hobbies, below!
Why do Moms Need Hobbies?
Why do moms need hobbies? Well, for one thing, everyone needs hobbies! These are the activities that we take part in for the sheer, pure enjoyment of them, and – of course – to relax!
Moms arguably need hobbies more than almost anyone. With every moment of your day dedicated to another little person (or a few), you’re bound to sorely need some time to get back in touch with yourself.
And what else are hobbies for?
1. Baking
Don’t worry, we’re not talking about big, complicated meals (unless that sounds like fun to you, in which case, more power to you), but rather recipes that you’ve wanted to try but never really set aside time for.
When it comes to baking, there is a world of fun, unique stuff. Pinterest is a great place to find inspiration if you don’t have something in mind already!
If your budget is a bit tight, never fear. You can make some really delicious things with little more than eggs, butter, sugar, salt, and flour. For example, german pancakes (only butter, flour, eggs, and milk) or a homemade zucchini bread loaf.
2. Painting
As Bob Ross could tell you, painting can be a wonderful way to make yourself happier. And when it comes to a hobby, what more can you really ask for? Painting allows you to take the colors of your choice and create a limitless, changeable world, with no rules except your own.
You can paint something as simple as a favored pet, whimsical creatures, wildlife, forests, oceans, or even something much more abstract – your imagination is the limit, and even then, there’s plenty of inspiration to draw from online or in real life!
All that you need are a few paints, a canvas, and a bit of practice, and you can lose yourself in creating something of wonder.
3. Sculpting
Sculpting is an ancient art form that’s starting to catch on again. Why’s this? Because, nowadays, thanks to innovation and the internet, there are countless materials and tools available (not to mention tutorials, kits, etc.) that did not exist before!
The fun of sculpting is how easy it can be, and yes, affordable! All that you need are a few small, couple-dollar blocks of polymer clay, and perhaps a detailing tool or two – if you like, you can also include some accessories, like beads or shimmer.
Polymer clay can be made into miniature food, jewelry, whimsical dolls (like mermaids or faeries), baby dolls, animals, busts, dragons… whatever catches your fancy!
4. Kickboxing
If you like to be physically active or would like to become so, kickboxing can be a terrific way to do it. Kickboxing provides an outlet for life frustrations or anxious energy; or, conversely, you can use it to energize yourself.
Pro tip: listen to a custom workout playlist to get pumped up while you kickbox! As a bonus, kickboxing is a full-body, heart-healthy workout that blasts fat and builds muscle like no other.
The cost? An investment in a punching bag, some gloves, and some wraps for your wrists – these will allow you to kickbox free for years, however!
5. Gardening
Some might consider gardening a chore. If you’re one such, go ahead and move on down to the next hobby, if you like! Others consider gardening a hobby, and it can be a truly rewarding one. This is a hobby that you can make as simple or complex as you prefer.
For example, take the time to germinate some tomato seeds to plant, or purchase a baby plant from the store; stick to plants with simple care needs like cucumbers and carrots, or tackle lettuce and plants more prone to pests (these may take a bit more effort to combat), and so on.
Once you’ve started your garden, administer a little, consistent care, and before you know it, you’ll have new flower blooms to admire and fresh produce to enjoy!
6. Pottery
Pottery is an art form that everybody should try at least once – there’s nothing quite like it. It’s an earthy medium that allows you to really get into what you’re creating, as it employs both body and mind.
In more practical terms, you can also use pottery to make a lot of fun and useful stuff. Whether it’s plant pots, vases, bowls, or whatever else, pottery enables you to craft something functional as well as beautiful.
Use your creations to decorate your own home, to gift, and if you get good enough, you can even try to sell some work online (on sites like eBay and Etsy).
7. Hiking
You don’t need much at all to go on a hike: just some snacks for energy, the proper wear (sturdy shoes and long pants to avoid possible ticks, etc.), an awareness of the local wildlife, and a sense of adventure!
Many recommend that you don’t do potentially dangerous hikes (like those far from civilization or in bear territory) alone, but there are plenty of more leisurely/busier trails that you can set out on by yourself.
Admire the natural beauty, take in the fresh air, and find a spot for a picnic (brought along in a handy backpack, along with a first-aid kit and 1-2 water bottles).
8. Birdwatching
If it’s your thing, birdwatching can be a lovely way to relax. It involves keeping your mind present, scanning nature for a pretty sight.
This encourages your thoughts to still… and leaves room for wonder. What birds might you see? There are some in every bright color, with varied shapes and songs to watch and listen for.
It’s advisable to bring close-range binoculars so that you can see high-up, tree-roosting birds in detail.
Feel free to take (polite, flash-free, unobtrusive) pictures of the birds, if you are a photographer!
9. Foraging
Foraging is one of the most budget-friendly hobbies you can take up. Why? Because all that you need is a basket (or three), somewhere to forage… and of course, a lot of know-how!
In your local forest, you can find berries, mushrooms, and even certain roots, greens, flowers, and tubers that you can then turn into salads, jams, stir-fries, and so on!
However, it’s extremely important to educate yourself properly beforehand (it’s as easy as an internet search these days), to make sure you’ll truly be able to differentiate between poisonous lookalikes and the edible treasures that you’re looking for!
10. Jam Making
Jam making is a traditional hobby that’s been beloved for centuries, and it couldn’t be simpler. This makes for a hobby that doesn’t require too much thought or energy (this translates to ‘stress-free’).
You only need 3 things: fruit, whether foraged, gifted from neighbors, or purchased from the store; pectin (optional); and your choice of sweetener.
You can turn just about any kind of fruit into jam, with strawberry, peach, kiwi, and nectarine being some of the most popular.
Not only this, but any fruit that’s becoming overripe can be turned into a sweet, flavorful jam in a jiffy!
11. Sewing and Knitting
Sewing and knitting are both activities that can keep your hands and mind busy while allowing you to sit back and relax.
Once you’ve memorized the basic patterns, you’re all set to make something lovely and practical – like a hat, a baby blanket, a dress, a top, winter gloves, or a scarf. Nothing quite compares to that warm, handmade feel.
This is another hobby that you can make lucrative if you wish. Practice until you’ve developed your skill, and then try to sell some of your creations online (on places like eBay and Etsy, etc.).
Conclusion
What do you think? Do any of these hobbies catch your interest?
As you can see, most of these hobbies are nice and accessible, and none of them cost much, either. Any of them can be a fantastic way to take some well-earned me-time and enjoy some fun and stress relief.
