Rediscovering Old Hobbies: How I Modified My Favorite Activities

After a life-changing event, many of us find ourselves looking for ways to get back to the things we once loved. Hobbies and activities that brought joy and comfort may suddenly feel out of reach, especially when faced with physical challenges. However, rediscovering those old hobbies can be a rewarding journey, especially when you're willing to adapt and modify them to fit your new circumstances. In my case, living with the use of only one hand and one leg has transformed the way I approach my favorite pastimes. But with a little creativity and determination, I’ve found ways to enjoy those activities again.

1. Relearning How to Cook

I’ve always enjoyed cooking, but after losing the use of my right hand and leg, I was unsure if I could ever manage in the kitchen again. The thought of handling knives, stirring pots, or even opening jars with one hand felt overwhelming. But instead of giving up, I learned to modify the way I cook:

• Use Adaptive Tools: One of the biggest game-changers in the kitchen has been investing in adaptive cooking tools. There are gadgets designed specifically for one-handed use, such as automatic can openers, choppers, and cutting boards with stabilizers. These tools make tasks like chopping vegetables or opening cans much easier.
• Prepare Simple Meals: I’ve shifted my focus to preparing simpler meals that require fewer steps. Stir-fries, casseroles, and one-pan dishes are great because they involve minimal handling and can be prepared with just a few basic tools.
• Batch Cooking: I’ve also adopted the habit of batch cooking. By preparing larger quantities of food at once, I can save the extra portions for later, reducing the number of times I need to cook throughout the week.

Rediscovering my love for cooking wasn’t immediate, but with patience and the right tools, I’ve found new ways to continue enjoying it.

2. Crafting and Painting – With a Twist

Crafting and painting were always a source of relaxation for me. But when my right arm became non-functional, I thought my crafting days were over. It turns out, I just needed to make some modifications:

• Switching Hands: First, I had to get comfortable using my left hand. The initial frustration was real, but over time, I improved with practice. It’s slower, and the results may not always be perfect, but it’s incredibly rewarding to see the progress.
• Choose Projects Wisely: I also had to rethink the types of projects I worked on. Instead of more intricate crafts that require two hands, I shifted to simpler, less demanding activities. For example, painting has become a relaxing hobby again, but now I focus on abstract art, which doesn’t require fine motor skills. Working with watercolors or acrylics is much more forgiving, and the emphasis is on creativity rather than precision.
• Adaptive Tools for Crafting: Just like with cooking, I’ve found adaptive tools helpful in crafting. Weighted or ergonomic brushes, as well as stabilizing mats for paper, help me keep things in place while I work.

3. Reading and Writing – A New Approach

Reading has always been one of my favorite pastimes, and I’m happy to say it’s something I can still enjoy without much modification. But writing—especially journaling—has been more challenging:

• Voice-to-Text Technology: Writing with one hand is possible, but it can be slow and tiring, especially for long entries or creative writing. I discovered voice-to-text technology as a solution. Now, I can dictate my thoughts, ideas, or even drafts for my blog using my phone or computer. It’s an excellent tool for staying productive without the physical strain.
• E-books and Audiobooks: With my physical limitations, holding a heavy book open for long periods can be difficult. I’ve switched to using e-readers and audiobooks, which allow me to enjoy reading without needing to physically hold a book or turn pages.

4. Gardening with One Hand

Gardening was another hobby I feared I’d have to abandon. But it turns out, you can modify gardening to fit your abilities too:

• Raised Garden Beds: Since bending down or kneeling isn’t an option for me anymore, raised garden beds have been a game-changer. These allow me to tend to my plants while standing, making gardening accessible again.
• One-Handed Tools: Adaptive gardening tools like ergonomic spades and trowels designed for one-handed use have also made it easier to plant, water, and care for my garden.
• Simplifying the Process: I’ve simplified my gardening routine by focusing on low-maintenance plants, such as herbs and succulents. These don’t require a lot of attention, but still bring joy and a sense of accomplishment.

Conclusion: Finding Joy in Modifications

Rediscovering old hobbies has been a journey of trial, error, and adaptation, but it’s been incredibly rewarding. By embracing tools, technology, and a willingness to modify how I approach each activity, I’ve been able to reclaim much of the joy that these hobbies brought me in the past. The key is to be patient with yourself, explore new methods, and most importantly, have fun along the way. With the right mindset, you’ll find that the things you love can still be a part of your life, even if they look a little different than they used to.