Whether you’re revisiting a passion or searching for a new pursuit, the transformative power of hobbies can help you find meaning, satisfaction, and balance in your everyday life.

Read on for more about how hobbies enrich our lives from multiple perspectives.

Introduction to the Value of Hobbies

Making time for hobbies is necessary for our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Hobbies allow us to unwind, discover more about ourselves, and build skills that enhance our lives.

Research confirms what many have experienced firsthand: having a hobby tied to happiness and well-being — such as arts and crafts, gaming, or volunteering — is thought to boost overall life satisfaction. People who regularly dedicate time to hobbies report lower stress levels, better mood regulation, and greater social connections.

So why not turn hobbies into an intentional part of your daily routine? Whether it’s gardening, painting, hiking, or learning an instrument, hobbies can transform mundane days into meaningful experiences that transform how you feel and function.

Mental and Physical Benefits of Engaging Hobbies

Many of us recognize that hobbies are enjoyable, but their benefits go far deeper. Physical hobbies — like dancing, cycling, or even golf — aren’t just good for the body. They also positively impact the mind by reducing stress and increasing focus.

For instance, golf supports mental and physical health. It combines physical movement with the mindfulness of being in nature, leading to significant mental health benefits, like lower anxiety levels and the chance to relax and reset. That’s not to mention the physical health benefits, like improved heart health, better breathing, and stronger muscles.

On the other hand, intellectual and creative hobbies keep our brains sharp and combat stagnation, such as creating art or learning a new language. These pursuits can also stave off burnout by creating a sense of accomplishment and purpose. Certain hobbies even have the potential to save lives, such as learning CPR as part of a first-aid hobby.

Hobbies are a reminder that growth and learning don’t have to stop after school or work. They can be woven into leisure time to enrich both body and mind.

Creating Personal Spaces for Hobbies and Relaxation

A dedicated space for hobbies can make all the difference in how much they actually uplift you physically, mentally, and emotionally. This space signals to your mind and body that it’s time to switch gears, stepping away from work and into relaxation or creative flow.

Whether it’s a small studio corner for painting, a garage for woodworking, or a cozy backyard nook, having a “sacred space” for your hobby reinforces its importance in your life.

Creating such spaces doesn’t have to be costly or complex. Consider budget-friendly ideas for transforming areas like sheds into tranquil retreats. For example, you could purchase a quaint metal shed and dress it up with thrifted items like colorful throw pillows, bean bag chairs, a mini-fridge, and lots of greenery — similar to popular decorations for she-sheds and other spaces dedicated to hobbies. Even a small desk with proper lighting and storage can become a haven for journaling or crafting.

By curating a personal sanctuary for your hobbies, you’re investing in a physical space that helps foster a mindset of balance, joy, and self-care.

Social and Emotional Benefits of Hobbies

Hobbies aren’t only about personal growth and self-care. They’re also gateways to deeper social connections. Participating in group activities or hobby-related clubs introduces you to a community of like-minded people. This camaraderie helps combat loneliness, fosters new friendships, and creates a support system grounded in shared passions.

For instance, book clubs, hiking groups, or online knitting communities allow individuals to connect over their interests. Sharing your hobbies with others by teaching, learning, or simply discussing your passions can spark meaningful relationships.

Even solitary hobbies like writing or photography can lead to social opportunities. Joining online forums or attending workshops brings enthusiasts together, creating a ripple effect of inspiration and motivation.

Social hobbies remind us of an essential truth: humans thrive when they feel connected, and shared interests are among the strongest threads that bind us.

Conclusion

You can use hobbies for far more than passing the time. Lean on them to maintain holistic health and well-being, from enhancing mental clarity and physical health to nurturing creativity and building social connections.

Whether you’ve always wanted to try a unique pursuit like birdwatching or dive deeper into an existing passion, the possibilities are endless. Even unconventional hobbies like home brewing or metal detecting offer unique health benefits that support your overall quality of life.

Start by asking yourself which activities bring joy to your life. Then, take small steps to prioritize those interests. Remember, the positive effects of hobbies ripple beyond personal fulfillment—they enrich your relationships, improve your health, and create lasting happiness.

Life’s meaning often hides in the small moments. By embracing hobbies, you open yourself to a life brimming with satisfaction, connection, and growth.

Photo Credit

Photo is from Pixabay

Guest Author Bio
Charlie Fletcher

Charlie Fletcher is a freelance writer from the lovely “city of trees”- Boise, Idaho. Her love of writing pairs with her passion for social activism and search for the truth. When not writing she spends her time doodling and embroidering. And yes, she does love all kinds of potatoes!

Determine Your Focus

When starting out the journey of coin collecting, identifying a niche or specific focus is important. Some enthusiasts choose to collect coins from a particular era, such as ancient Roman, medieval, or modern coins. Others may prefer collecting coins from a specific region or country, allowing for a richer exploration of cultural and historical narratives. Moreover, thematic collections like commemorative coins or coins featuring notable personalities offer unique avenues for specialization. Considering all your interests not only makes the collecting process more enjoyable but also helps streamline your decisions and future investments.

Conduct Thorough Research

Before diving into the collection, investing time in research provides invaluable insights into the world of numismatics. Familiarizing yourself with the history and background of your chosen focus enriches your collecting experience and enhances your understanding of the significance of each piece. Maintaining an up-to-date knowledge of market trends and pricing helps in making informed purchasing decisions, particularly for newcomers. Books, online resources, and even coin clubs serve as repositories of knowledge, offering details on coin values, authenticity, and grading. Knowledge empowers collectors, enabling them to build a collection with confidence and purpose.

Connect with the Coin Community

Engaging with fellow collectors through local coin clubs and online forums can significantly enrich your collecting journey. Many seasoned collectors are willing to share their experiences, offering valuable insights and advice. Participating in these communities provides access to coin trade shows and exhibitions where you can view and buy items in person. Additionally, online platforms such as eBay and specialized coin websites offer opportunities to observe market behaviors and trends. Building relationships within the community not only enhances your collection but also enriches your overall experience through shared passion and learning.

Explore Trade and Purchase Options

Understanding where and how to acquire coins is fundamental for collectors who wish to expand their collections mindfully. Local coin shops offer the advantage of examining coins physically and speaking directly with knowledgeable sellers. On the other hand, places like Harlan J. Berk, LTD, and other online stores provide a vast array of choices from around the world, ideal for those with a specific focus. Auction houses, whether virtual or in-person, present opportunities to acquire rare and exclusive pieces. Each avenue offers different benefits and requires an understanding of the risks involved, particularly regarding authenticity and pricing, demanding careful consideration and discernment from the collector.

Develop a Strategy for Growth

Cultivating a coin collection is a rewarding endeavor, particularly when guided by a thoughtful strategy. Beyond accumulating coins, collectors should consider how each acquisition complements and enhances their existing collection. Maintaining meticulous records ensures an organized collection and allows for insightful tracking of each piece’s history and value. Exploring the historical context and stories behind the coins can add depth to your collection. Leveraging resources such as appraisals and professional valuations can further solidify and grow your portfolio, allowing for more strategic acquisitions over time.

Embarking on the journey of coin collecting can be both a rewarding and enriching hobby, allowing enthusiasts to connect with the past while building a tangible and often valuable collection. By focusing on a specific area of interest, conducting detailed research, and engaging with the vibrant community of fellow collectors, you can enhance your experience and make informed decisions. Exploring different avenues for acquiring coins and developing a strategic approach to growth further solidifies your understanding and passion for numismatics. Remember, the joy of coin collecting lies not only in the coins themselves but also in the stories they tell and the people they are connected to.

Photo Credit

Photo is from Adobe

Guest Author Bio
Rachelle Wilber

Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor’s in journalism and media studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn’t on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, on the beach, or at the gym.

Spinning Rods and Reels

Spinning rods and reels are popular among lake fishers, especially for beginners. Spinning reels are mounted underneath the rod and offer an open-faced design that reduces the risk of tangling. This setup is versatile and can be used to catch a variety of freshwater fish types, such as bass, trout, and bluegill. Anglers appreciate the ease of casting with spinning rods, as the line flows smoothly from the spool, making it easier to achieve precision and distance. When choosing a spinning rod, focus on the length and power rating, as these factors influence the type of fish you can target and the techniques you can employ.

Baitcasting Rods and Reels

Baitcasting rods and reels are favored by experienced fishers looking for greater control and accuracy. These reels sit on top of the rod and require a thumb-controlled spool for adjusting the line’s release during the cast. Baitcasting setups excel in situations where heavier lures or lines are needed, or when you’re targeting specific fish. A Bass Fishing Casting Rod, for example, has a medium-heavy power rating, while a surf fishing casting rod can range from heavy to extra-heavy. The learning curve for baitcasting can be steeper than for spinning gear due to the potential for backlashes, but proficiency allows for sophisticated fishing techniques. Paying attention to the gear ratio in a baitcasting reel can provide insight into its speed and power, aspects important for matching a fisher’s specific needs.

Fly Fishing Gear

Fly fishing differs quite a bit from other lake fishing techniques, utilizing a unique rod and reel setup. Fly rods are generally longer and more flexible, allowing the angler to cast lightweight flies with precision. The fly reel matches the rod in terms of weight and balance while offering a simplistic drag system. Popular for fishing trout and salmon, fly fishing requires the angler to mimic the appearance and behavior of insects on the water surface, which can be quite an art. Understanding line weight and choosing the correct rod action will assist in casting successfully and adapting to various fishing locations and conditions.

Tackle Boxes and Lures

A well-organized tackle box is indispensable for keeping fishing expeditions efficient and enjoyable. Within, you’ll find an assortment of lures like crankbaits, jigs, and soft plastics, each designed to attract specific fish species. Crankbaits often mimic prey fish and can be used at different depths, which makes them effective in various environments. Jigs, with their weighted heads, work well for bottom fishing, while soft plastics offer a versatile approach for imitating worms or minnows. Proper organization of your tackle box helps with quick access to tools and prevents gear from tangling or becoming damaged.

Fishing Lines and Leaders

Fishing lines are a key consideration, with choices affecting casting distance, sensitivity, and strength. Monofilament lines offer stretch and ease of use for beginner anglers, making them suitable for a variety of freshwater species. Braided lines provide superior strength and durability, ideal for situations where heavy cover or big fish are present. Fluorocarbon leaders are popular due to their low visibility underwater, enhancing stealth to avoid spooking fish in clear water conditions. Choosing the right fishing line involves balancing the line’s diameter, strength, and application to target the intended fish species efficiently.

Exploring the world of fishing gear can be exciting for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. Understanding the differences between spinning, baitcasting, and fly fishing setups allows you to tailor your equipment to your fishing style and target species. An organized tackle box and the right selection of lures can make your work more efficient. Whether you’re casting from the shore of a tranquil lake or wading into flowing streams, the right gear empowers you to enjoy the serenity and thrill that fishing offers. As you learn and adapt, you’ll discover the joys of nature, the satisfaction of mastering technique, and maybe even the catch of a lifetime.

Photo Credit

Image is from Pexels

Guest Author Bio
Rachelle Wilber

Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor’s in journalism and media studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn’t on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, on the beach, or at the gym.

1 – Gardening

It has long been known that connecting with nature is a fantastic way to reduce stress and increase happiness. But now more than ever people are turning to gardening as a hobby. Gardening became popular during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic as it provided an activity that could be done at home for very little extra money. Start your gardening journey with a small garden where you can plant and maintain easy to grow fruits, vegetables, or flowers. If you have plenty of space outdoors and are sure of your gardening ability, add a landscaped area or two where you can plant colorful sun-loving flowers. Not only will working in the garden be a fun hobby for you, it will add to your home’s value (a plus for anyone struggling to sell their home while mortgage rates are high.)

2 – Try Journaling

Keeping a journal might seem like an activity only angsty teens would enjoy, but that couldn’t be farther from the truth. Journaling can be a very satisfying and healthy hobby for adults of all ages. Journaling has been shown to reduce anxiety and improve creativity. You can make journaling as creative as you would like, especially since there are multitude of writing instruments and embellishments to choose from.

3 – Painting

No, we don’t mean painting the walls of your home, although if you are planning on selling your home in the near future, a fresh coat of paint could help with your home appraisal. We’re referring to the type of painting that involves a canvas and easel. Painting classes can be in person or virtual. In some areas you can find paint nights that include a tasty snack and adult beverage to go with your masterpiece.

4 – Hiking

Not only is hiking a beneficial physical activity, it is also a positive addition for those searching for a bit of stress management. Completely disconnecting from daily life and taking a long hike can reduce stress and increase happiness. Many areas across the country have well maintained, clearly marked hiking paths that range in difficulty and length so you can choose the right path for your level of activity.

5 – Join a club

One of the best but most often overlooked aspects of living in a community is the availability of clubs. Whether it is a cheese club, book club, or hunting club there is probably a group of individuals who would be happy to add another member. Check the community board of your local library or grocery store for possible clubs in your area.

6 – Flipping furniture

If you have any type of carpentry skills or would like to learn some, flipping furniture is a creative, fun, and monetarily worthwhile hobby to begin. Individuals who flip furniture general find old, used, or unwanted furniture at estate sales, second hand stores, or even the side of the road. They then repurpose the furniture and resell it.

Choosing a hobby isn’t always easy and it may take a few tries to find the hobby that best fits your lifestyle. Give a few different hobbies a try and you are sure to find one that increases your happiness and makes 2023 a fantastic year.

Photo Credits

Spring Gardening by Jill Wellington from Pixabay

Hiking by Ben Kerckx from Pixabay

Guest Author Bio
Andrea Keeney

Andrea Keeney is a freelance writer with HomeLight. She holds a degree in Secondary Education and Language, LIterature, and Writing from Eastern Michigan University. When Andrea is not writing she is balancing her time as a mother, fitness enthusiast, and avid gardener.

In the early days, bingo promoted unification within communities. Later, its benefits continued to be seen during the gloomy days of World War II, where it became a much-needed distraction for those on the home front. By the 1960s, due to the gambling act reform, bingo was in full swing in the UK, rapidly becoming one of the most favored ways to socialize. And because bingo had become more or less a pastime, it was considered to be more a type of lottery than a form of gambling.

Although traditional bingo halls are still alive and well, online bingo sites are increasing in popularity, offering a modern forum in which to play the game. Online players not only enjoy the same entertainment value and social benefits as traditional bingo, but can also stay connected on social media platforms. Another bonus? Online bingo is just a click away.

If you’ve been looking for an exciting, affordable pastime in which to make new friends and are curious about playing  bingo online, here are a few things to consider:

Affordability

Bingo is an affordable, low-cost option for those wanting the gambling thrill without the high stakes of blackjack or poker. With little to lose (yet still quite a bit to win!), the relatively low cost of a game of bingo appeals to a wide variety of people and attracts players of different ages and gender.

Options

While physical venues are still enjoyed by many, one of the draws of online bingo is choice. There are so many options to choose from, and most offer the added interest of chat rooms, forums and blogs. These are fantastic opportunities for players to interact, share some helpful tips and take advantage of special promotions and offers.

Health Benefits

Aside from fun and entertainment, bingo actually provides physical and psychological benefits as well. It helps to reinforce concentration and can stimulate short-term memory. And because of the fun-filled atmosphere, it provides an opportunity to laugh! Laughter relieves stress, and can even boost the immune system. It turns out, bingo is a wonderful addition to a healthy lifestyle, adding a sense of community and social belonging. Bingo brings people together!

While the game of bingo itself has seen its share of changes over the years, it’s maintained the core aspects players have grown to love: it’s fun, it’s social and it’s a game for all ages. Not to mention, there’s the lure of the win! The ‘human’ factor, though, is what adds real value to the game, and is perhaps one of the biggest reasons it has maintained its popularity over the years. With player interaction and guaranteed excitement, bingo is a fun and easy addition to a healthy lifestyle!

Photo Credit

Photo from Flickr – some rights reserved

Guest Author Bio
Patrycja Lewczuk

Patrycja has been involved with online bingo and casino for 3 years and is well-versed in the ins and outs of online gaming. She provides players with sound advice, allowing for a safe and enjoyable online gaming experience.

Life forms have adapted to live in different water conditions, temperatures and depths. From deep cold ocean environments to high altitude lakes, fish have evolved to live in these different water conditions.

Getting a fish tank is the best way to mimic natural conditions in your living room and have colorful small companions from all over the world.

Fresh Water Aquarium

To start, there is a crucial decision that has to be made. What kind of environment would you like in your tank? Freshwater fish and marine fish cannot be mixed in the same tank. You can have one of each or decide which one you prefer the most.

Robert Woods, owner of the online publication Fishkeeping World, is going to describe the differences to help you decide and find which environment would best fit your taste.

In both cases you can find the most colorful fish and animals. But what are the differences and what do they mean?

The Main Difference

The first is very easy to guess. The water in saltwater tanks contains different percentages of salts depending on the fish or animals you have.

The water found in freshwater tanks is also special. You cannot just use tap water as it must be de-chlorinated and treated for your fish.

Discus – a beautiful tropical fresh water fish

Pros and Cons

Pros and cons don’t just come down to aesthetics but also to cost and maintenance. Generally, tropical freshwater environments are a good place for beginners to start.

Freshwater tanks tend to be a bit easier to maintain as the water requirements are less strict and you can be lax about water parameters.

Another factor to consider is cost. Saltwater aquariums are a bit more expensive as they require additional equipment and maintenance. Furthermore, marine fish cost slightly more than freshwater species.

A salt water aquarium with live rock

There is no good or bad choice. It comes down to how much time and money you are willing to spend.

Coral reefs might present more of an appeal with colorful corals and, if you have the patience, also anemones. On the other side you have green river beds with schools of colorful fish so both environments can present astonishing results.

Equipment

The equipment will differ depending on whether you want a saltwater or a freshwater aquarium. Both will need a filter, and most setups will require a heater.

Some tanks require additional equipment for water oxygenation, creating a current and special lighting. Temperature plays a key role in tropical environments.

Corals for examples require specific light intensity and hours of light. There are many automated options available to best mimic natural conditions.

There are more add-ons to consider for saltwater tanks that will make your life easier such as live rock, a porous rock that contains bacteria and can also be used as a substrate for corals.

Protein skimmers help prevent algae breakouts and keep your water clear. These can make your life much easier as they will improve water quality and remove organic waste.

Coral and anemone

Once you have decided on the type of water, then you can really start to specialize your environment. For example, in saltwater tanks, you can decide if you want an only coral or an only fish environment. Salt mixes might change depending on this choice.

If this is your first experience with an aquarium, then a freshwater tank would be the perfect start. They are easier to maintain, cheaper and at the same time can be very colorful.

At the end of the day, it’s really up to you. Consider the amount of time you have and your budget, and this will help to determine which setup you’d prefer.

And remember, you can always have both!

Photo Credits

Photos are pixabay creative commons

Guest Author Bio
Robert Woods

Robert has been keeping fish for almost thirty years. He was first introduced to the world of fish through his Uncle’s fascinating saltwater tank. After that, he was determined to have his own tank, and at the age of four his parents bought him his first fish tank. Since then, Roberts’ love for fish has continued to grow, and he now shares this joy with thousands of others through his website, Fishkeeping World.

After taking a vintage T-33 “T-Bird” through a loop or two and later experiencing a “Top Gun” F-18 aerial combat exercise, I asked a few pilot acquaintances of mine what kind of watch they each wore. I wondered what could handle the multiple G’s entailed in barrel rolls, loops, and going supersonic.

“The (somewhat younger) author about to take off on an F-18 “Top Gun” aerial combat exercise involving seven supersonic fighters

The usual answer was the Swiss watch maker, Breitling. Not to sell short Rolex or any of the other quality Swiss timepiece manufacturers out there, but from the 1930’s the Royal Air Force was a regular customer, with Breitling analog clocks gracing the cockpits of RAF Spitfire fighters and Lancaster bombers.

When Breitling came out with their Chronomat watch in 1942 it became a military favorite for its accuracy and durability. It just so happens that a more modern version of the Chronomat is my favorite watch! Later, the Breitling Navitimer incorporated a circular slide rule into its dial and became the first true in-flight all-in-one computer. Breitling’s Navitimer Cosmonaute was the first Swiss chronograph in space continuing the tradition of aviation/space pioneering.

Close up of the Hurricane Avenger

In fact, a Breitling even graced the wrists of the men aboard the first non-stop round-the-world balloon trip, made in the Breitling Orbiter 3. I know this because I had a nice chat with its pilot, Bertrand Piccard, at the 100th anniversary ball of the famed Explorers Club at New York’s Waldorf Astoria in 2004. (Point of potential interest: Bertrand’s great-uncle (and aviation pioneer, to boot) Jean Piccard, was an Explorers Club member, as was his friend Gene Roddenberry, the creator of Star Trek. Guess who was the inspiration for Captain Jean Luc Picard, skipper of the USS Enterprise in Star Trek: The Next Generation? I wonder if Captain Kirk owned a Breitling…

While digital watches have replaced the precision analog movements of yester-year for navigating aircraft, this does not stop people from loving the engineering and painstaking work that goes into crafting such a watch. Like we appreciate (or maybe even drive) a ’69 Shelby Mustang or a vintage Bugatti, both car and watch aficionados continue to appreciate and treasure the classic styles and mechanisms… and newer versions of the same.

The author sporting the Hurricane Avenger

So you can understand why, on a recent visit to Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas, I was drawn to the Breitling Boutique in the Shops of the Forum. Michael Bedrossian, the store’s sales manager, kindly showed me some of the latest offerings and my eyes were immediately drawn to the new Avenger series, and specifically, the Avenger Hurricane. Jet black and composed of the same super-tough material that makes up fighter cockpits, the hefty-looking watch felt feather-light on my wrist. I could imagine my hands at the controls of an F-22 Raptor doing Mach 2 while wearing this chronograph (unfortunately this is not likely to happen unless a friendly US Air Force general out there cares to lend me one).

Of course Breitling caters to the other extremes with its Superocean series watches rated to 1000 feet (3300 meters) depth. Other of their Professional series include the Exospace, the Aerospace, the Cockpit and Chronospace Military.

The iconic Breitling logo

For the very adventurous, the Breitling Emergency is the first watch to sport a true dual frequency distress beacon. Fighter cockpits, high altitude balloons, the ocean’s depths, space, the list of places where Breitling ventures just goes on and on…

Breitling now crafts its own B01 in-house movement proudly installed both in classic lines such as the Navitimer, Chronomat and Premier, as well as their newer lines. The Colt offers a more affordable entry level timepiece for those who wish to own a Breitling. Be sure to buy at an authorized Breitling dealer or authenticate your watch with a trusted chronologist if buying second hand.

Thanks again to Michael Bedrossian for re-acquainting me with Breitling and updating me on their latest offerings.

Breitling Boutique Las Vegas manager Michael Bedrossian fits author with the latest Swiss timepiece

Look for Michael at the Breitling Boutique at the Forum Shops at Caesars. Tell him I sent you.

Photo Credits

Photos by Stella Burden-van der Lugt—All rights reserved.

Isle of Wight Metal Detecting Club
Metal detecting isn’t a solitary “sport”. It brings people together.

It Gets Them Outdoors

It’s important for people of all ages to spend time outside. It’s good for a person’s physical health as well as mental and emotional well-being. Metal detecting gets people outside and into nature, and there are some beautiful areas that can be hunted, like the beach, around lakes, the woods, parks, and more.

It’s Low Impact Exercise

Along with getting outside, metal detecting provides seniors with some low impact, gentle exercise. Every health professional will tell you how important it is to get moving in some way each day. The walking that metal detecting requires is typically easy and if the retiree has trouble bending to dig, it’s the perfect opportunity to find a metal detecting partner to help with retrieving targets.

It’s a Great Way to Make Friends

Loneliness can be a challenge for older people – especially those who have lost a spouse. Getting involved with metal detecting can help alleviate the isolation that many seniors feel. There are metal detecting groups and clubs in nearly every city, and they can provide seniors with social interaction and friendship, as well as helping them find other people to go detecting with.

It’s Something to Do with Grandchildren

Metal detecting is a hobby that is usually very appealing to kids. Seniors can take the opportunity to get in some quality time with their grandkids by taking them out hunting. It’s a wonderful way to bridge the generational gap and engage with family that might otherwise be uninvolved in the senior’s life.

How many hobbies can actually make you money?

It’s Fun

Metal detecting is fun! It provides detectorists with the thrill of the hunt and excitement when targets are located. Everyone, including seniors, needs to set aside time that is dedicated to having fun – metal detecting is the perfect activity for that.

Of course, make sure you understand the laws and rules of metal detecting. Nothing ruins a fun day out like a brush with the law. 

Metal detecting is a great choice of a hobby for seniors, their families, and their friends. It’s important to look for detectors that are lightweight and that offer a hip mount, which will make it more comfortable to carry around. Depending on the individual, consider a “set and go” type detector that allows a person to get started detecting right away, or if the retiree wants to learn how all of the settings work, a more technical model might be called for.

Whatever type of detector seniors start off with, they are sure to have a good time, get some exercise and sunlight, and hang out with other detectorists if they choose to.

Photo Credits

Isle of Wight Metal Detecting Club – Wikimedia Creative Commons

Coins – by Portable Antiques on flickr – Some Rights Reserved

Guest Author Bio
Jami Olive

Jami Olive is a writer, mother and metal detecting hobbyist. She is a regular contributor to the Kellyco Metal Detector Blog

Why Prospect?

The lure of gold is as old as recorded history. It is beautiful, scarce, and indestructible, and because of these things it is valuable. So the dream of heading into the hills and getting the stuff out of the ground has an obvious attraction.

When gold prices soar, as they do during every economic crisis, there is a clear incentive to go and find your own. But there is something that money cannot buy: the satisfaction of being the first person since the beginning of time to pick this particular shiny wonder out of the dust.

Add to that some beautiful natural locations, and the chance that you just might strike it rich, and the range of attractions is complete.

Where to Prospect

Canada has the fourth richest gold seams in the world. 90% comes from commercial mines, but that still leaves a lot in the ground for small scale and amateur searching, and every year more is washed down the rivers.

The Klondike Gold Rush brought an estimated 100,000 people to the Yukon, and there is still gold to be found in the west, but the main areas are now around the Canadian Shield.

The best prospecting country for amateurs is always remote. The further you can get from civilization the better, so equip yourself with a rugged vehicle (a Dodge Journey will get you, and all the equipment you could need, to just about anywhere) and set out into the wild.

How to Prospect

Panning for gold is the traditional approach. It is very hard work, and you may go through several thousand pans to find an ounce of gold. You can start with a pan and a shovel, but you will soon want more equipment. Panning is allowed in many areas, but you must check your specific location before starting.

A common method, known as Sniping, involves walking along a river bank looking for that tell-tale sparkle. Be careful, because it is easy to wander into a private area or one where a claim has been established, and then you would be breaking the law.

For the serious prospector, it pays to stake a claim to a stretch of water. This gives you exclusive rights to prospect in your area for as long as you maintain the claim.

The Rewards of Prospecting

If you are prospecting because you want to get rich quick, it is just like any other sort of gamble. But if you get your kicks out of spending time alone in beautiful places, with the lure of gold enough to keep you at your labors, then you will find the satisfaction you crave from prospecting, and with a bit of luck, enough returns to justify your efforts.

Photo Credit

Gold – Wikimedia creative commons

Panning for gold – Wikimedia creative commons

Guest Author Bio
Brandon Clark

Brandon Clark enjoys a wide range of hobbies; fly fishing, off-roading, and now gold prospecting! He writes about his interests, his articles being published on lifestyle and specialist hobby blogs.