New Season, New Hobbies for Veterans

Veterans, are you ready to try something new? 

Photo by Fishing for the Mission 22. Website here.

Spring is more than just warmer weather and blooming flowers, it's a season of growth and fresh starts. For Veterans, this shift can be a powerful reminder that life after service still holds space for purpose. If winter for you feels heavy emotionally, physically, or mentally, you’re not alone. One of the best ways to reconnect with yourself this season is through hobbies that bring peace, movement, and maybe even a little fun.

Why Hobbies Matter?

Whether you're transitioning from service, navigating challenges like PTSD, or just looking for something fulfilling to do, hobbies can help by:

• Reducing stress and anxiety

• Improving focus and routine

• Building physical strength and stamina

• Creating new connections and community

Spring Hobbies Worth Trying

1. Gardening 

2. Yoga

3. Hiking or Nature walks 

4. Fishing 

5. DIY projects 

6. Group fitness 

7. Volunteering 

8. Art or Photography 

Find your new YOU 

No matter where you are in your journey, there’s a hobby out there that can bring you joy and healing.. Spring is the perfect time to step outside your comfort zone and discover what makes you feel alive. Whether it's the calm of fishing or the creativity of art, give yourself permission to explore something new.

References 

Admin-Afba. (2015, June 18). 5 hobbies for veterans adapting to civilian life. AFBA. https://www.afba.com/military-life/5-hobbies-for-veterans-adapting-to-civilian-life/ 

Radar, U. T. (2017, November 28). 13 Hobbies veterans recommend for dealing with stress. Military.com. https://www.military.com/undertheradar/2017/07/13-hobbies-veterans- recommend-dealing-stress 

The importance of learning new hobbies for veterans and law enforcement officers: Enhancing Mental Health and Well-Being – Stay Safe Foundation – A Veteran / LEO 501C3 Non-Profit. (n.d.). https://staysafefoundation.org/the-importance-of-learning- new-hobbies-for-veterans-and-law-enforcement-officers-enhancing-mental-health- and- well-being/ 

6 Spring activities to help relieve stress and boost mood | SonderMind. (n.d.). https://www.sondermind.com/resources/articles-and-content/spring-activities-to- relieve-stress-and-boost-your-mood-without-leaving-the-house/ 

Davis, J. (2024, May 15). Nonprofits aims to cut veteran suicides with therapeutic fishing trips, resources. WPDE. https://wpde.com/news/local/fishing-for-the-mission-22- veteran-suicide-nonprofit-provides-mental-health-resources-therapeutic-fishing- trips-military-members-reintegrate-civilian-life-financial-independence-resource- center-crisis-hotline-south-carolina-may-15-2024