The pandemic began over a year ago and a lot has happened since then. Businesses across the country were faced with tough decisions, office workers forced to work from home and, of course, COVID-19 raged on. However, in that year, many people across the country and our folks at KPG Healthcare decided this would be a perfect time to take on some hobbies.
You might’ve seen some people making bread, having fancy cocktails, cooking delicious food or partaking in some Do-It-Yourself (DIY) projects throughout the pandemic lockdowns. So, we asked our KPG Healthcare staff members if they took on any Quarantine Hobbies.
Adrienne Naor – Allied Professionals Account Support
What made you decide on this hobby?
– I have been crocheting since 2017 as a way to make baby toys and accessories for my niece. Since then, I have branched out into other objects and wanted to find a way to showcase my work. My sister has been cross stitching for a lot longer and was already adept at selling patterns on her own as well as making and gifting custom.
What do you enjoy most about this hobby?
– I enjoy making keepsakes for others that will be cherished for a long time. Seeing the look of joy on a loved one’s face when they receive a handmade gift from me is phenomenal and knowing others outside of my circle of friends or family also enjoy my craft (in the form of reviews that have been left on the shop) has been great. I never gift something less than I would hope to receive.
Do you recommend it to others?
– I think crochet is a great art to take up (especially if you are looking for a way to make objects of your own) but it has been stressful commodifying my work along with everything else that comes with opening up a shop. It is a mixed bag on opening up a store, but I still think the crafting process is something everyone should try out!
Christine Watts – Travel Nursing Compliance Specialist (AZ)
What made you decide on this hobby?
– I have always loved baking and decided to delve into giving it a try after watching several baking shows/competitions on TV, and I became a self-taught baker. During the pandemic, I was able to refine my skills to be able to bring joy to some of my friends and family to help them experience some sense of “normal”.
What do you enjoy most about this hobby?
– Baking is a stress reliever for me, and it lets me explore my artsy side. Plus, I get to make some pretty awesome and tasty creations.
Do you recommend it to others?
– I absolutely recommend it to others. It is an outlet where you get to be as creative or by the book as you want to!
Danielle – Travel Nursing Account Manager (AZ)
What made you decide on this hobby?
– I picked hiking because I really wanted to stay active during quarantine. Hiking made it easy to social distance and get some fresh air!
What do you enjoy most about this hobby?
– I enjoy the peace and quiet. I love Arizona and all of the different hiking trails you can do so close by. It makes enjoying the outdoors so much easier!
Do you recommend it to others?
– YES, always! This is a great way to get exercise and get some Vitamin D!
Eve – Travel Nursing Account Manager (AZ)
What made you decide on this hobby?
– I picked running, biking and swimming. I was training for a triathlon!
What do you enjoy most about this hobby?
– I enjoy pushing myself and improving as I train.
Do you recommend it to others?
– I 100% recommend training for some sort of race that pushes you a little further than you think you can go! You feel empowered and strong!
Erin – Travel Nursing & Allied Professionals Compliance Manager (CA)
What made you decide on this hobby?
– I’ve always wished for a “green thumb” but tended to kill every plant I brought home. I figured since I had nothing to do but stay at home it would be a good time to learn how to keep them alive!
What do you enjoy most about this hobby?
– I’ve been able to replace the fake plants with real ones that look just as good – if not better! I love seeing new little baby leaves sprouting.
Do you recommend it to others?
– Of course! Indoor plants have been shown to detoxify the air, reduce stress and improve oxygen levels. Plus, they bring color and life into your space. Who doesn’t want that?
Gladis – HR Benefits Manager (AZ)
What made you decide on this hobby?
– ROLLER SKATING! March 2020, I made the move to Arizona to help our Scottsdale office but the week I moved was when Arizona shut down due to the pandemic. Alone in a new city knowing only co-workers I couldn’t see, I needed to find something to help keep my sanity. I remembered I enjoyed roller skating and figured it was a good way to stay busy but still stay socially distant.
What do you enjoy most about this hobby?
– I’d say the best part about roller skating is it’s super easy to just carry them around anywhere and bring them out anytime I see a good spot to skate or when I need to relax. It’s been an amazing way to destress and a great workout too.
Do you recommend it to others?
– Definitely! Even just to cruise it’s a good workout and at least for me, a nice to clear the mind. Just be sure to buy all the padding and protection gear. Learned that the hard way…
Lauren – Provider Services Consulting & Business Development Manager (NV)
What made you decide on this hobby?
– During the pandemic, I was processing some heavy grief from losing loved ones – COVID and non-COVID related. I knew I wasn’t the only person needing to heal and so I sought out to create a community that I needed, knowing it would also inspire and support others and bring a sense of purpose to my loss.
What do you enjoy most about this hobby?
– I typically travel to two countries a year and through that, I have built a wonderful network of talented people I have acquired throughout my life. Since we are not able to travel or be together in person, I created an international virtual retreat group that brought together a variety of speakers, presenters, motivational speakers, and audience members from the US, United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, Africa and Europe. This two-day virtual retreat had yoga, meditation, workshops, Ted Talk-style speakers, and more.
Do you recommend it to others?
– It was a wonderful experience that brought light and purpose to an uncertain time. I was immensely grateful for the support and participation that we continued to hold game nights, Sunday morning coffee and weekly workshops.
Tiko – Travel Nursing Recruitment Manager (AZ)
What made you decide on this hobby?
– I have always been a fan of hiking. However, moving to Phoenix turned me into an avid hiker with so many options of amazing hikes to choose from!
What do you enjoy most about this hobby?
– I love that no two hikes are the same. It allows you to get away from the noise of everyday life and just be free to explore. There is no wrong fork in the road on a hike.
Do you recommend it to others?
– Absolutely. There are hikes rated from easy to extreme, so there is a challenge/thrill level for everyone. Plus, it’s very social distancing friendly and a great way to get fresh air.
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All of these hobbies sound amazing! Although the pandemic is still not over, these quarantine hobbies play a crucial role in prioritizing your health during a difficult period. This pandemic has proven to be hard for everyone across the board, but it’s up to us to determine how we individually address our physical and mental health.
Hopefully, this blog post gave an idea of some constructive quarantine hobbies you can start enjoying today! Remember, your mental health is just as important as your physical. Go forth and do great things!