When living with a chronic illness, trying new things can be daunting, especially when it comes to finding a new hobby. In our "Accessible Hobbies" series, we will explore a variety of hobbies that are suitable for people living with long-term health conditions.
In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of terrarium building and share some tips and tricks to make it as accessible as possible.
Why are hobbies important?
Research shows that people who regularly partake in hobbies feel less stressed and show fewer signs of depression. This is important for everyone, especially those living with a long-term illness.
No matter your passions, interests, or physical ability, there is a hobby for everyone. The most important thing is that it's fun and meaningful to you.
Why terrariums?
Studies show that gardening is beneficial to both mental and physical health. If you find traditional gardening too physically challenging or too large of a commitment, building a terrarium can offer a more manageable way to enjoy and connect with nature.
Terrariums are not just a relaxing activity; they also provide a rewarding sense of accomplishment when completed. A completed project can serve as a reminder of your potential, even during periods of poor health or confinement at home.
Building a terrarium doesn't have to be a solo hobby; it's an accessible activity that can be enjoyed with friends and family, regardless of their physical ability. This shared activity can lead to meaningful bonding moments and shared joy.
Additionally, terrariums make wonderful gifts. They last longer than typical flowers and require less maintenance, lasting for months or even years. Their unique, personalised nature also adds a thoughtful touch to your gift-giving, as well as being fairly affordable.
Accessibility
Terrarium building is accessible to people of all abilities and backgrounds. You don't need a garden or a lot of space, and once they are set up, they require little to no maintenance.
Their small size means there’s no heavy lifting involved, and you can build them while sitting down, making it an ideal hobby for those living with illnesses such as chronic fatigue or POTS.
Ways to adapt terrarium building to make it more accessible:
Before you begin, gather all the items you’ll need and keep them within reach. By doing this, you won’t have to keep getting up or need to stretch too far.
Pre-prepared kits are available online; these can be useful for beginners as you'll have everything you need and won't have to spend as much time sourcing items. One downside to this method is the higher price.
Make sure you are in a comfortable position with lots of support to avoid unnecessary strain.
Give yourself permission to take breaks, allowing you to work at your own pace.
What you'll need
Here's a list of items you'll need to build a terrarium:
Basic Supplies:
Container: A glass jar, bowl, or terrarium-specific container.
Potting Soil: A well-draining potting mix suitable for the plants you choose.
Plants: Small plants, such as succulents, air plants, or miniature ferns. Click here for a list of the best plants to go in your terrarium.
Gravel or Small Rocks: For drainage at the bottom of the container.
Activated Charcoal: Optional, but helps to prevent odours and keeps the terrarium fresh.
Decorative Stones or Pebbles: For aesthetics and to enhance the look of your terrarium.
Tools:
Small Trowel or Spoon: For scooping soil.
Tweezers or Long-Handled Tongs: To position plants and small decorations.
Watering Can or Spray Bottle: For watering the plants.
Scissors: For trimming plants if necessary.
Gloves: Optional, for keeping your hands clean during assembly.
Optional Decor:
Figurines or Miniatures: To personalise your terrarium.
Moss: For a natural, decorative touch.
Sand: For layers or decoration in the terrarium.
Make sure you have everything ready before you start your project to make the process smooth and enjoyable!
Instructions
Prepare the Container:
Clean the container with warm, soapy water and rinse thoroughly. Make sure it’s clear and free of residues.
Add Drainage Layer:
Pour a layer of gravel or small rocks at the bottom of the container. This helps with drainage and prevents root rot. Aim for about 1-2 inches, depending on the size of your container.
Add Activated Charcoal:
Add a thin layer of activated charcoal on top of the gravel. This helps absorb odours and keeps the soil fresh.
Add Potting Soil:
Pour a layer of potting soil over the charcoal and gravel. Make it about 2-4 inches deep so there’s enough space for the plants' roots.
Plant Your Plants:
Carefully remove the plants from their pots, gently loosening the roots if needed. Use tweezers or long-handled tongs to position them in the soil. Arrange them as desired, leaving space between them for growth.
Add Decorative Elements:
If you like, add decorative stones, pebbles, or figurines to enhance the appearance of your terrarium. This step is about personalising your creation!
Water the Plants:
Lightly water the plants using a watering can or spray bottle. Be careful not to overwater; a little moisture goes a long way, especially in a closed container.
Seal:
If your terrarium has a lid, you can place it on top. Closed terrariums require less frequent watering, while open ones need more regular attention.
Place the Terrarium:
Set your terrarium in a chosen spot and monitor the light and moisture levels.
Maintain Your Terrarium:
Check the moisture level regularly. If there's too much condensation on the glass, remove it with a piece of kitchen roll.
Final note
I hope that after checking out this blog, readers will feel inspired to pick up a new hobby, or rekindle an old one from the past. It's important to remember that even though you are living with limitations, they create a unique space to find joy in the small things. Those limitations might just help you stumble upon a new passion you never would have discovered otherwise.
For more accessible hobby ideas, Click Here.
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