Hobbies
As well as being fun, rewarding and interesting, hobbies can be an important self-management tool for arthritis.
Distraction
Hobbies can help us to distract from the pain of arthritis by holding our attention on something else. It doesn’t matter what the activity is, as long as it is something you find interesting and fun. Although it won’t take away the pain, it can help to turn down the volume.
Pacing
On days where you know you need to rest, it can be really hard to fight the feeling that you should be productive. Try to find a relaxing hobby like puzzles, making art or crafts can give purpose to your quiet time and encourage you to take some time for yourself.
Connection
Sometimes it feel like arthritis defines us or takes over our lives. Having a hobby that you are passionate about means you can connect with other people based on your shared interest. It’s also a great way to meet new people and make like-minded friends. For example, if you take art classes you could suggest visiting a gallery with some group members.
Practical advice & considerations
Pubs
Can you book a table to ensure you will have somewhere to sit?
When buying a round of drinks, can you give your friend the money to go get your round if you might struggle carrying the drinks back? Or alternatively, go to a place where table service is available so this doesn’t become an issue.
Festivals and other all-day outdoor events
Can you bring a fold up chair with you?
Make sure you have your phone with you – keeping in contact with your friends is important as you can let them know where you are, if you’re having trouble, or just let them know that you will meet up later if you need to stop and have a rest.
Do you need documentation to bring any medication into the event? You can always contact the organisers in advance if no information is available online – it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Travelling domestically and internationally
When booking seats, try and get one on the aisle. That way you can get up and stretch without the worry of moving along a row or getting in others way.
Airports and train stations usually have disability services that can help you with transportation around the building, all the way up until you get to your platform/gate.
Seated events – Theatre, Sports, Shows etc.
As with travelling, try to book an aisle seat so that you can get up or stretch out whenever you need to.
Find out how long the event will be and whether there is an interval, so you can decide if it will be realistic for you to sit through the entire event.
Check what access and parking the venue has, and if that suits your needs.
Days out
Do you have something to keep you entertained in case you need to split off from a group, or rest for a while? Bringing headphones, a book, or having something to do on your phone can be useful while you wait or rest.
Know where you are going and what facilities will be available to you. Extensive planning can feel like it drains the spontaneity from a trip, but will prove to be invaluable if you have a flare up or run out of energy sooner than expected.
Make sure your friends/family are aware of your condition, and that they understand if you need any help.
Online events
If travelling or getting about is an issue, there are always other ways to entertain yourself.
If you are experiencing a flare up and are unable to go to an event, some venues for music or shows are also streaming their events. Perhaps take a look at their site or get in touch with their customer service team to see if this is available.
Eventbrite and various other platforms during the pandemic have rapidly expanded, and the availability for streaming performances, lectures and groups and are still available even as restrictions lift. It may be worth adding more of these in to your calendar.