As the days grow longer and the air turns warmer, something exciting happens. A unique energy fills the atmosphere, an energy that signals freedom, relaxation and opportunity. Summer, a time to try something totally new whether you’re into art, sports, or music. Summer is the perfect time to explore a new hobby.
For students and teachers, summer often comes with a more flexible schedule. During the school year, it is hard to find the energy or time after a full day of classes, homework, and maybe even sports or a part-time job.
Once summer hits, many students find they have fewer responsibilities and more freedom to follow their interests.
“It allows for more downtime, which brings energy up to the MAX so you can pour passions into what you care about,” Emma Varland (12) said.
It’s easier to feel excited about doing things when the sun is out.
Research conducted by UCLA Health shows that natural light can boost serotonin levels, increasing feelings of well-being and motivation. This makes summer the perfect time to get outside and try new hobbies.
“The daylight changes people’s vitamin D, resulting in positive shifts in people’s mood,” Biology teacher Shin Wen said.
Trying new hobbies can help people figure out what is enjoyable during the summer when the weather is nice. With more daylight hours, people are more likely to head outside and try discovering new interests.
There’s no pressure to be perfect. Summer is a time to experiment without worrying about failing. Community centers, libraries, and local organizations often offer summer-specific classes and workshops. These short term programs give people a chance to test the waters of new interest without a long term commitment.
The Campbell County YMCA has a summer day camp. At this camp they have STEM projects, art and craft activities and new hobbies to explore and connect with other people. They also have daily swimming, theme activities, and team building activities for children between the ages of 5 – 12.
“There are many fewer things to worry about, so you think about other things or try something different. I started running with my brother in the summer, and it was very good for me, so I kept doing it and ran a half marathon,” Ethan Lang (9) said.
Most importantly summer gives people the space to step back and reconnect with what brings them joy. Coming back into the new school year with new skills, new friends, or ideas to start a new club. Whether it’s finding something completely new or rediscovering a long forgotten passion, trying a hobby can be both healing and motivating.
“Summer is a good time to experience new things because there is more freedom as well as no homework or other things stressing you out,” Nelsey Willis (10) said.
Summer creates an amazing environment for exploration and growth. People never know where trying something new may lead them. There’s no better time to start something new than summer. All it takes is just a warm afternoon and an open mind can be the beginning of something new.
