Lots of people look forward to retirement here in Arizona as well as around the world. After a lifetime of hard work, what’s wrong with wanting some well earned down time? But what do you do with yourself when the thrill of 24 hour relaxation wears off? The majority of retirees don’t want to spend the rest of their time watching television, so what about trying something that you may not have had time for in the past? From volunteering to trying ballroom dance lessons, here are a few fun suggestions for retirees.

Volunteer

You’ve done a lot in your life, and your community appreciates it. Just because you’re off the work force doesn’t mean you can’t keep giving back. Find a charity or a cause that you really care about and use your talents to help them out. If you love our furry friends, look into volunteering at a local shelter. Puppies and kittens needs people to walk them, play with them and more. Also, consider overseas volunteering. You aren’t tied down to a particular location once you hit retirement, so you can bring your gifts to other countries if that appeals to you, and explore some fun new places at the same time.

Outdoor Activities

Most of us spend our work hours indoors. Use retirement as an opportunity to make up for lost time! Some of the most popular retirement activities here in Arizona are fishing, bicycling, golfing, and hiking. All of these activities give you at least a mild workout – well, maybe not fishing – and they get you out in the vitamin D rich sun. Let the sun’s rays lift your spirits and take in some beautiful surroundings with fun outdoor activities. Great places to go biking or hiking include Sedona and Flagstaff, AZ.

Family Time

It can be very hard to make time for family when working a 9 to 5 job. Major careers can be even more time-consuming! Use your retirement years to visit your relatives and get to know them all over again. Your children (and grandchildren) have grown and have probably changed a bit since you knew them as kids. Get the know them as they are now and share your lives with them. They’ll appreciate the time and the stories you have to tell.

Travel

As mentioned earlier, you aren’t tied down to any one place. Explore the world! Some people are lucky enough to travel earlier in life, but it’s never too late. You’ve got time to spare, so visit new cultures and experience new adventures.

Hobbies

Hobbies are a great way to fill free time-without having to leave town. Take up knitting or learn to play an instrument or, better yet, learn to ballroom dance! Hobbies generally take some time to get the hang of, so use your newfound freedom to perfect a fun, new skill. If you want a hobby that’s a little more social and interactive, dance lessons in Country, Latin or even the spicy Argentine Tango can reignite some romance, or even help you to meet new people. The best part of social partner dancing is that it has incredible mental and physical health benefits, along with being just plain fun. is tons of fun.  If you’re looking to learn to dance, and you live in the East Valley of Phoenix, come visit us at Dance FX Studios in Mesa, AZ. With dances styles ranging from Swing to Country to Latin, we can help keep you active and entertained. We offer private dance lessons and  group classes  for a little variety. Make your later years count with activities and hobbies that will keep you young at heart and in your mind. You’ve put in your time in the workplace, now it’s time to do something for you!

Contact us to begin your dancing journey…

Private dance lessons are available by appointment Monday-Friday from 12-8 pm and on Saturdays from 10 am-3 pm. For more information, call us today at 480.968.6177.