As the winter days drag on and deadline season approaches, it’s easy to fall into a monotonous routine. Trying new activities is a great way to get out of the library and add variety to your life in university. Studies show that hobbies are an essential component of life satisfaction and overall mental well-being. So if want to find your new passion but don’t know where to start, here are some of the most unconventional hobbies Edinburgh has to offer:
- Surfing
While Scotland isn’t exactly known as a beach destination, it’s quickly becoming Europe’s hottest new surf spot. Labeled by the BBC as “the Hawaii of cold-water surfing”, veterans of the sport come here for consistent waves and quiet coastlines. To take your skills to the next level, visit Edinburgh’s newly opened surf resort, Lost Shore. Their artificial wave pool is perfect for beginners who want to try surfing in a controlled setting.
- Fire performance
If you’ve ever walked past the Meadows on a Monday night, you’ve probably noticed fire spinners performing in the park. While definitely one of the more daunting hobbies on this list, PyroCeltica’s weekly gathering is more than welcoming to new members. Join the group on Monday’s at 9pm outside the Pavilion Cafe to hone your fire performance skills, or to at least have an interesting anecdote at a party.
- Pole dancing
Pole dancing is often unfairly stigmatised, but it’s an amazing exercise for your body and mind. Whether you want to join the university society or try out one of the many studios around the city, Edinburgh offers plenty of opportunities to try this unconventional sport. Pole dancing is a great way to boost strength, flexibility, endurance, and self-esteem, all while learning a unique skill in a fun environment.
- Re-enactment societies
Ever wondered what it was like to live through the middle ages? Now you don’t have to! With Edinburgh’s plentiful historical re-enactment societies, you’ll have the opportunity to not only learn about the past but also experience it firsthand. Participants dress in period clothing, wield authentic props, and recreate moments from British history. Check out Edinburgh BXIV, the Heriot-Watt Medieval Society, or Loudon’s Regiment if you want to get involved.
- Stand-up comedy
Edinburgh is a major hub for the global comedy scene, with many comedians getting their start at the August Fringe Festival. If you’re the self-proclaimed “funny one” in your friendship group, why not make it your new hobby? Stand-up newbies like to get their start at the Stand and Monkey Barrel, popular comedy clubs that offer occasional amateur nights. Laughing Horse Comedy even organises comedy courses for beginners.
- Foraging
Sure, you could go to Lidl to find your produce, but why not forage for it yourself? Gathering food may not sound like much of a hobby, but it actually requires a thorough understanding of plants and other natural ingredients. You can join a course or tag along on one of Edinburgh’s many foraging walks and events.
Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash