The old adage is that when someone retires, the husband would be henpecked to death at home (remember Richard begging his boss to let him stay, rather than go spend all day with Hyacinth in Keeping Up Appearances?) Or there’s the common story of a man who has a cardiac arrest while mowing the lawn, because he’s not used to slowing down.
In fact, retirement can be a good thing! If you’re 60 or 65, you could have another 30 or 40 years ahead of you! Slow down, take nature walks, make new friends, become a volunteer dog walker, read books, listen to music and learn to cook!
Embracing New Hobbies & Interests
Whether you learn to grow your own organic food or take up yoga, retirement is the ideal time to take up those hobbies you always meant to, but never found the time. This is also a great way to keep your mind, body and spirit in good health, for later years.
If growing food, use no-dig gardening and fruit protection bags (over netting, which can trap birds and wildlife). Learn how to create pet-safe gardens (use humane slug/snail deterrents).
Avoid facing indoor foliage to gardens, to help stop birds flying into windows.
Whether it’s painting a landscape or knitting a scarf, artistic activities enable you to express your creativity. They’re accessible to everyone and require little more than a willingness to explore new techniques and styles.
Who says you need to travel far to be adventurous? Discover hidden gems close to home. Museums, parks, and local eateries can offer new experiences, often overlooked, right in your backyard.
Volunteering and Giving Back
Volunteering brings a sense of purpose and connection. It positively impacts both the community and your mental health.
Charities and non-profit organisations frequently need volunteers. Whether it’s helping at a local food bank, supporting animal shelters, or assisting in community events, your time and skills can make a difference to those around you.
Travel and Exploration
Retirement Rebel is the story of Siobhan Daniels, who made the decision to step off the merry-go-round of life and enjoy her own slow journey, and live on her own terms. She sold up, packed up and hit the road with no real plan on a positive-ageing adventure, knowing that retirement could be the start of life, rather than the end of it.
With no shortage of mishaps along the way (she began just before being ordered to stay at home during the pandemic lockdown), her story can inspire us all to make simple lifestyle changes.
