Arthritic hands can make the once-loved hobbies more difficult, and at times, painful. If only there were changes we could make that would allow us to continue some of the more hands-on activities we have grown to love. Guess what – there are.
Whether you are looking for another way to play or simply seeking a new hobby altogether, this is the article for you.
Knitting and Crocheting
You may be surprised to know that knitting and crocheting are actually FANTASTIC little hobbies for arthritic hands. Both these activities improve dexterity (skill in
performing tasks, especially in hands) and increase finger flexibility.
Adjustments you can make:
- Stretch Beforehand: Avoid pains and cramps by loosening up those joints in preparation for your masterpiece.
- Use Wool: Wool is much more flexible and elastic than other materials.
- Short Sessions: Keep your sessions brief to start with to avoid pain and tiring out. Over time you will find you can last for longer sessions.
- Different Needles: Wood and plastic needles are a great replacement for cold and heavy metal needles.
Colouring
Adult colouring has really taken off in the past few years. There are various colouring books – from extravagant mandalas to simple patterns. All of which let you
create beautiful images to your personal liking. Colouring is great a hobby, mindfulness activity, and the mental focus can help distract you from negative thoughts and pains.
Adjustments you can make:
- Warm-Up: Rotate your wrists, stretch your fingers, and get into a comfortable position.
- Wrist Rests: Use Gel pads to rest your wrists.
- Take Breaks: Take regular breaks and relax your fingers.
- Ergonomic Pens and Pencils: Buy yourself stationary that gives a good grip and feels comfortable.
Yoga
Yoga is one of those hobbies that has a range of benefits for both your mind and body. It can alleviate the pain and stiffness of your joints, increase your range of 
motion and improve your balance. Mentally, yoga reduces stress and anxiety, becoming a gentle activity that all can enjoy. Everydayhealth.com have a list of 9 Yoga Poses for Arthritis Relief.
Adjustments you can make:
- Find Arthritis-Friendly Classes: An instructor with knowledge about arthritis can support you in finding modified poses that reduce strain on your joints.
- Avoid/Adjust Poses: Poses that aggravate symptoms should be avoided, however, a qualified instructor can help you modify them for comfort.
- Find Restable Pose: Ask your instructor for alternative resting poses.
Water Walking
Walking in water is a great way to move whilst putting zero to no pressure on your joints. The water supports your weight as you move, and boosts flexibility, balance
and fitness. You also burn more calories walking in water than you do on land.
Adjustments you can make:
- Heel-toe Action: Don’t walk on your toes, just use your normal heel-toe action.
- Warm Water: Walking in warm water can help relieve arthritic pain.
Water Aerobics
Having a low-zero impact on your joints, water aerobics can be a fun hobby to try. Trying different stretching positions increase flexibility, and being a part of a water
aerobics class can quite a social event.
Adjustments you can make:
- Resistance: Use more resistance equipment to help build your strength.
- Warm Water: Walking in warm water can help relieve arthritic pain.
Reading
Is there truly anything better than relaxing and getting lost in a book? Reading helps reduce stress, improve focus, and distract from arthritic symptoms and any
painful thoughts. Better still, relax with reading whilst enjoying a cuppa poured by your very own Uccello Kettle.
Adjustments you can make:
- Book Support: Buy a bookstand or rest book on a surface or lap so you are not supporting the book’s weight.
- E-Reader: Kindles and tablets are lighter than books, and being able to enlarge the text makes reading easier.
- Audiobooks: You don’t need to visually read a book to enjoy the book – consider downloading the audiobook and listening instead!
Painting
Last but not least, painting. A popular hobby amongst all age groups, this creative activity promotes mindfulness and can distract from your arthritis. 
The finger/hand motion increases mobility and improves dexterity.
Adjustments you can make:
- Warm-Up: Rotate your wrists, stretch your fingers, and get into a comfortable position.
- Ergonomic Brushes: Buy easy-grip ergonomic or specialist brushes with soft grip and large handles.
- Get Creative with the Muggi: The Muggi can be used in a number of ways. The overall goal is help make life easier. Perhaps it can hold your tea while you paint in one holder. your brushes in another and your water jar in the third.
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