Every stage of life offers unique opportunities for personal growth and well-being, both physical and mental. Whether you’re in your 20s or beyond your 50s, there’s always something new to try that can keep you active and mentally stimulated. Here are some specially curated activities for each decade of your life, including travel and holiday-related ideas that can enrich your experience further.

In Your 20s:

Backpacking and Solo Travel: Your twenties are often a time of exploration and self-discovery. Consider backpacking through different countries or continents. The physical activity of hiking and carrying a backpack is great for your health, and adapting to new cultures and environments can offer unparalleled mental enrichment. Solo travel can be especially empowering, teaching you independence and self-reliance.

Adventure Sports: This is also the time to try adrenaline-pumping activities like skydiving, bungee jumping, or surfing. These sports not only challenge you physically but also help you conquer fears and build confidence.

In Your 30s:

Rock Climbing and Family Camping: As you settle into career and family life, it becomes crucial to find a balance between work and play. Rock climbing can offer you the physical and mental challenges you need. Family camping trips, on the other hand, can be a fantastic way to introduce an active lifestyle to your children. The shared experience can create lasting memories while teaching everyone valuable survival skills.

Overseas Holidays: This could also be a great time to start exploring more luxurious travel options, perhaps in less-rugged settings. Think about taking an overseas holiday to a historic European city, engaging in walking tours to keep active while absorbing culture and history.

In Your 40s:

Martial Arts and Caravan Holidays: Martial arts can offer a structured way to stay active and a new skill to master, whether it’s karate or tai chi. The philosophy and discipline in martial arts often resonate well with people in their 40s, offering both physical activity and a form of meditation. Meanwhile, caravan holidays offer a different kind of adventure. Driving through scenic routes and setting up camp at different locations can be a unique way to see the world, offering the freedom of travel without the rigidity of a planned itinerary.

In Your 50s:

Cycling Tours and Cruises: Cycling tours can be an invigorating way to see new places, combining physical exercise with the joy of travel. Alternatively, cruises offer a more relaxed travel experience but still provide ample opportunities to stay active with onboard gyms and swimming pools. Plus, the multiple stops offer chances to explore on foot. 

It’s never too late to take up a musical instrument, a guitar around the campfire can transform a regular night into an unforgettable memory-making event.

Beyond 50:

Gardening and Wellness Retreats: Gardening can be both physically engaging and emotionally fulfilling. The acts of planting, nurturing, and harvesting can offer significant mental health benefits. For a more communal experience, consider a wellness retreat. Many retreats focus on holistic well-being, offering activities like yoga, meditation, and nature walks, making them perfect for this life stage.

Dance Classes and Overseas Volunteer Opportunities: Dancing isn’t just for the young. Whether it’s salsa or ballroom, dancing keeps you physically active and socially engaged. Additionally, consider taking the time to give back by volunteering overseas. Not only does this provide physical activity, but the emotional and spiritual rewards are immeasurable.

Life doesn’t come with an age limit for trying new things. Every decade offers a range of activities that can enrich your physical and mental health. Incorporate travel or holiday aspects into these activities, and you’ll add another layer of enrichment to your life, regardless of your age.

If this article has inspired you to think about your own unique situation and, more importantly, what you and your family are going through right now, please contact your advice professional.

This information does not take into account the objectives, financial situation or needs of any person. Before making a decision, you should consider whether it is appropriate in light of your particular objectives, financial situation or needs.

(Feedsy Exclusive)