Lincoln students have picked up new hobbies over lockdown and they’re actually pretty cool

Each year we vow to reinvent ourselves in some small or big way and being placed into a third lockdown gives us the perfect opportunity to try again… for the third time. We’ve grown up and moved on from whipped coffees, TikTok dances and ample amounts of banana bread we are starting this lockdown afresh by learning new ways to get through it.

We asked Lincoln students what they had been up to over the past few lockdowns and if they had picked up any hobbies. From photography to learning a new language, these students know how to keep themselves busy.

via @thetablincoln_

Learning Spanish 

Teaching yourself a new language may be a challenge but it is an easy way to pass the time and impress your friends and family on the weekly Zoom call. Whether you’re aiming to become fluent or just reach a basic level of understanding, apps such as Duolingo or Babbel will be your additional online tutors preparing you for an improved skill set by the end of this lockdown.

I can just about pronounce “Hola como estas”, so I respect your grind.

Crochet and embroidery

January and February are not known for being the warmest of months so instead of doing an online shop of knitwear, some students have taken up the art of crocheting. It is perfect for a trendy winter scarf for your mum, a woolly hat for your dad, or a Pinterest inspired item for your dog. You could go the extra mile and personalise those products with a bit of embroidery, an initial here, a heart there.

Learning an instrument

Whether you’ve dusted off the old drum kit your mum hid in the loft for a reason or revisiting the piano you gave up learning after a few years, some students have spent lockdown relearning how to play instruments. I’m sure if you practise those three chords on the guitar you are guaranteed to come up with some type of song and assemble a dream band over Zoom.

Improving photography skills 

We should all take advantage of our daily exercise whilst we are still allowed it and use it as an opportunity to capture the local landscape and explore our surroundings.  Finding beauty in places that were too busy to appreciate before.

Credit: Hayden Pollard

Reading

For many of us reading allows us some escapism from the chaos that is occurring outside our windows. One student aid she had been reading books from her adolescence as they bring her “comfort” and another was using this time as an opportunity to learn about politics and the “structure of our society” and recommended the book A little history of philosophy as it highlights the struggles of those usually ignored by mainstream media.

Or maybe have a look at these 17 books, docs and podcasts will help you educate yourself on LGBTQ+ issues.

Following a sport

Unfortunately with most sports, it is impossible to socially distance so you can no longer meet up with your mates in the park for a kick about but you could play Fifa which is quite therapeutic and still allows you to socialise. But I doubt the relentless screaming when your team loses will make anyone your biggest fan in the house. You could follow a sport like one Lincoln student who has gotten into American football even going as far as buying one of their jerseys.

Starting up your own business

If you’re creative enough to make your own art, design your own earrings or even try your hand at pottery making then starting up your own business seems an ideal situation to make a little bit of money during lockdown. One student used her graphic design skills to make personalised prints for her family and friends, and they are amazing.

If you have been struggling during each lockdown and during this pandemic, there is always help available.

If you or someone you know is struggling please speak to someone or contact the Samaritans on 116 123 at any time. You can also contact Anxiety UK on 3444 775 774, Mind on 0300 123 3393, and CALM (Campaign against living miserably for men aged 15 to 35) on 0800 58 58 58.

You matter and you are not alone.

Related stories recommended by this writer:

• Police withdraw £10k fine for student who hosted a party at Viking House

• A Lincoln fresher missed the beach so much he made one in his accommodation

• Restaurants, socialising and concerts: What Lincoln students miss the most pre-corona