37 Fun Hobbies for Women Over 40 to Rediscover Yourself

This post delves into the 37 best hobbies for women over 40 to rediscover their passions. From creative projects to physical pursuits, we’ve got you covered with a wide variety of hobby ideas to help you find purpose and meaning in your everyday life.

Life has many chapters, and as someone over 40, you might find yourself at the beginning of a new chapter, looking for ways to enrich and revitalize your life. 

The journey of life takes us through many changes and one of the most exciting parts is filling our free time with the things we really love to do – the ones that fill our cups, make us excited for the day, and keep us learning and growing. 

Whether you’re looking to start something brand new or rekindle an old passion, you’ve come to the right place. 

This post will cover all kinds of inspiring activities for women over 40 from creative arts to outdoor activities, and community engagement with a comprehensive list that includes unexpected ideas like horseback riding, astronomy, and aromatherapy. 

Let’s get into the list of hobbies for women over 40!

37 Inspiring Hobbies for Women Over 40

Creative Hobbies for Women

Reconnect with your inner artist through a variety of creative pursuits from the classics like painting and drawing to more unexpected options like floral design. You never know where you might find your new passion project!

1. Painting and Drawing

Picking up the pencil or paintbrush can feel overwhelming at first so try keeping it easy with an adult coloring book or paint-by-numbers set. In no time, you’ll be rivaling Picasso with your one-of-a-kind works. This is a great starter creative hobby and you never know where it might lead you.

2. Photography

This world is a beautiful place. Capture the moments that you find particularly special through your lens. Tell your story by developing a photographic style unique to you. It’s an underrated art form that’s easy to start. If you’re a total newbie, why not check out some online courses to get you going?

3. Knitting & Crocheting

Knitting and crocheting have a lovely meditative effect that leaves you feeling relaxed like nothing else. They make the perfect hobby because you can combine them with other things you love like listening to audiobooks or watching movies. Plus, they’ll help you work on your hand-eye coordination which is great for the brain.

4. Pottery

If you’re someone who struggles with perfectionism, you need to try pottery. Not only does the imperfectness of ceramics test your ability to let go and go with the flow, but it also requires you to relax into the mess. You’ll be covered in clay, glaze, and slip – but only if you do it right! Going to a ceramics studio is also a great way to make new friends.

5. Floral Design

Take your love for flowers to a new level by investing in your ability to make unique floral designs. One of the best things about this hobby for women over 40 is that it combines creativity with the beauty of nature, offering a therapeutic and satisfying experience.

6. Interior Design

If you’ve made it to your 40s, chances are you’ve already dabbled in interior design. If you found that it sparked your interest, why not dive in and turn it into a hobby? Ask your family members if they have any unfinished living space and go to town turning your vision into reality.

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Physical & Outdoor Activities

Outdoor hobbies are a great way to get physical activity, stay active, and get into the great outdoors. There are so many options to match whatever you’re into so let’s dive into these outdoor hobbies for women.

7. Gardening

Whether you have a yard or not, gardening can be a great hobby for women of all ages. If you have the space, try planting a small kitchen garden in the yard. Imagine how rewarding it will be to harvest and cook veggies you grew with your own hands. If you’re working with only indoor space, turn your space into a jungle with all kinds of indoor plants.

8. Hiking

If you live in an area with access to natural areas for hiking, why not discover some new trails? Hiking can be catered to almost any level and can be a good reason to socialize as well. Getting outside always does a world of good.

9. Cycling

Hiking not your thing? Cycling has become a really popular hobby because it’s a fun way to explore the area around you and get some fresh air. You can even join a cycling group to meet new people and turn it into a social affair. There are even even groups for just women of any age from under 30 to older women over 60.

10. Golf

Golf is loved by many for a reason. It combines three great aspects of any hobby, getting outside, socializing and meeting new people, and learning a new skill. Plus, if you get really into it, you’ll have a great excuse to travel the world in search of the best golf courses. That’s why this remains a classic on any list of outdoor hobbies for women.

11. Horseback Riding

When you first hear horseback riding, do you think about yourself as a child wishing for a pony for your birthday? Horses can be super gentle and loving animals and are known to form one of the deepest bonds with people compared to any other animal. Doesn’t a trail ride sound like an excellent way to spend a Sunday? 

12. Martial Arts

Martial arts like Tai Chi can make for interesting hobbies. They offer a good reason to get outdoors and get your body moving. Plus, they can help you build physical strength which is great for longevity.

13. Water Sports

Maybe water sports weren’t the first thing that came to mind when you started thinking of hobby ideas but they can be super fun and a great way to get out of your comfort zone. Plus, it’s a great way to develop an active lifestyle and stay moving on weekends.

14. Bird Watching

Bird watching is one of the hobbies that often gets some hate from lookers on. However, it’s one of those things that you shouldn’t knock until you try it. It can be a fantastic way to connect with nature, lower stress levels, and have a great time.

The best part? It’s totally free to get started.

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Learning & Skill Development Hobbies for Women over 40

Hobbies are a great opportunity for mental stimulation and growth. As we age, we need to continue to nourish our minds just as much as our bodies. Finding a hobby that does this is a great way to make it a habit.

15. Cooking

Maybe you’ve been cooking for decades or maybe you’re a total newbie. Cooking is a fun and efficient hobby that has all kinds of benefits, like eating super tasty food, hosting dinner parties, and sharing delicious food with loved ones. It’s always but to try out new recipes and we particularly love to try cooking dishes from different cultures.

If you’re someone who loves to share their creations, why not take so social media with beautiful images of your creations that your friends, family, and fans can make for themselves?

16. Creative Writing

Writing can take so many forms from journaling to short stories, and screenplays. It’s a fun and easy hobby that almost anyone can do, anywhere. All you need is a notebook and pen to get started.

17. Dance Classes

Dancing is an absolute trifecta of fun, good for you, and easily accessible. Whether you want to follow some YouTube choreography videos or take a class, the dance world is your oyster. Plus learning new dance sequences is great for putting your brain function and memory to the test.

18. Musical Instrument Classes

How many of us have learned to play an instrument on our bucket lists? From piano to guitar to ukulele, there are so many options available. You can take in-person classes or follow free tutorials online, there’s something for everyone.

19. Historical Interest

It’s been a long time since high school history class. Whether you consider yourself a total history buff or whether you’ve forgotten it all, there’s so much to learn. Start with an engaging historical nonfiction and see where it takes you. Or you could assemble your family history into a family tree for future generations to enjoy.

20. Stand-Up Comedy

There are few more rewarding feelings than making other people laugh. If you have a funny streak waiting to come up, now’s your time to try out stand-up comedy.

21. Online Classes

No matter what you’re into, there are online courses for that. Masterclass is a great place to start because the classes are high-quality and engaging.

22. Wine Tasting

If you’re a wine lover, why not justify cracking your next bottle by turning it into a hobby? Take a wine-tasting class or throw a wine-tasting party.

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Social & Community Engagement

One of the well-known secrets of living a healthy life is staying active in your community and creating a supportive network of family, friends, and acquaintances. Hobbies are a great opportunity to make new social connections and get out into your community.

23. Book Club

Are you a reader looking for some new inspiration or some friends to discuss with? Join – or even start – a book club. Nowadays, it’s super easy with the help of Zoom and Facebook. There truly is something for everyone. Plus, spending hours with your nose buried in a good book is a fantastic way to spend your spare time.

24. Volunteering

Perhaps the most gratifying hobby on the list, volunteering is a great way to give back and connect with your local community. It’s easy to start and most places have many options available from women’s centers to soup kitchens, and even the local animal shelter. There’s nothing better than the feeling of having a positive impact.

25. Join Local Clubs & Groups

Facebook opens up a world of local clubs and groups. There are all kinds of groups based on interests, affinities, and much much more. Just a little digging will turn up all kinds of opportunities.

26. Get Involved in Local Government

Here’s a hobby you wouldn’t always think of first! Try getting involved with the local government to make your home a better, safer, more engaged place.

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Relaxation & Mindfulness Hobbies for Women over 40

Did you end up here by typing “hobbies for women in their 40s” and hoping some good ideas would show up? Or maybe you’re just looking for some relaxing activities to fill your day?

Hobbies can be a great way to wind down and relax from the everyday stressors of life. Use these opportunities to work on your inner world and cultivate a mindset of inner peace.

27. Aromatherapy

If you struggle with relaxation, try turning it into a hobby. Aromatherapy is a great way to unwind and release stress. Plus, you’ll be a total potions master in no time, mixing and matching essential oils to make your custom blends.

28. Tea Preparation & Tasting

Tea preparation and tasting is an art that opens up a world of delicate flavors and aromas, blending tradition with personal discovery. Although it might appear intricate at first, beginning with the basics of brewing and tasting different types of tea can be both simple and delightful. Start by experimenting with brewing times and temperatures for various teas, and observe the subtle changes in flavor and aroma – this journey into the nuances of tea can be a soothing and enlightening experience.

29. Astronomy

Astronomy has a magical way of expanding our perspective and deepening our understanding of the universe. While this hobby may seem overwhelming at first, getting into astronomy can be both easy and captivating. Begin by simply stargazing, identifying constellations, or following the moon’s phases, and let your curiosity guide you through the wonders of the cosmos. While this may not be the first idea you think of when you think of hobbies for 40 year old women, it’s a creative idea that has the potential to all kinds of joy and discovery to your life.

30. Meditation

There’s a reason why meditation is praised for being so transformative. Although it can be a little intimidating to start, meditation can be easy and simple. Start with a simple breathing exercise like box breathing and see where it takes you.

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Mind & Soul Hobbies

You might not immediately think of hobbies as ways to nourish the mind and soul but they can help stimulate your brain and bring inner peace, fostering feelings of groundedness and purpose. So here are some of our best hobbies for women over 40 that will test your problem-solving skills.

31. Puzzles

Puzzles are great ways to challenge your brain and practice focusing and being in the present moment. From jigsaw puzzles to Sudoku and crosswords, these brain games keep your mind sharp and offer a relaxing break from daily life.

32. Learn a New Language

You’re never too old to learn something new! Learning to speak a new language is a great way to enhance your cognitive performance and experience a new culture through their dialect. You can try out language-learning apps like Duolingo or Babbel for an easy introduction. Another one of our favorite hobbies for women in their 40s!

33. Tarot Reading

How fun would it be to become your friend group’s resident tarot reader? Explore your inner thoughts and emotions through learning the art of this ancient practice. If you’re a beginner, check out this tarot card deck complete with a guidebook.

34. Journaling

Have you tapped into the power of journaling? It’s an incredible tool for self-discovery and reflection and takes very little equipment or training to get started. Whether you prefer stream of consciousness, gratitude, or bullet journaling, there are so many options available that will help you reflect on your personal growth journey. This is one of our favorite hobbies for 40 year old women — or women of any age!

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Games

There are all kinds of games available from physical to digital, one-person and group. Spending an afternoon with a little friendly competition can be a wonderful way to pass the time and challenge your brain. Did you know that playing games is great for your mental health too?

35. Board Games

Looking for a fun hobby that’s easy and brings your family and friends together? Become the board game aficionado and plan a weekly or monthly game night to try out the latest and greatest.

36. Video Games

Maybe you’ve tried video games before or maybe you secretly hate them. But there is such a diversity of games available — there really is something for everyone. It may not have been your first instinct but it can be a fun hobby where you find yourself losing track of time.

37. Card Games

Similar to board and video, card games can make for an exciting hobby too! Whether you like solitaire, bridge, or poker, a simple deck of cards can provide hours of entertainment.

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Final Thoughts

No matter your age, starting a new hobby can be an exciting undertaking. Not only can it fill your free time with something enriching, but it can also help you rediscover passions, connect with your deeper purpose, and encourage personal growth.

Whether you’re looking for something creative, active, or spiritual, there are plenty of hobbies for women in their 40s out there to enrich your life and fill your free time with something purposeful.

The possibilities really are endless and the benefits of trying new things, particularly as we get older, are profound. From stress relief to building community and boosting confidence, these small life-enriching activities can have a big impact on your overall life satisfaction.

We hope that something on this list of hobbies for 40 year old women sparks your interest and leads you on a new adventure.

With love,

A small note for my readers – Over here at VLHhealth, we occasionally include affiliate links in our posts. This means that if you purchase using our links, we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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FAQ

We hope you enjoyed this list of hobbies for women over 40!

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Curious to learn more? 

• 23 Fun Hobbies For Women In Their 20s
• 19 Fun Hobbies For Women In Their 30s
• 63 Screen-Free Activities for Adults: Fun Things To Do without Your Phone

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Posted By: Victoria · In: hobbies for women