10 Things to Do That Don’t Involve Your Hands

As we encounter health issues, we might experience mobility limitations, including not being able to use our hands. It can be challenging and frustrating to find activities that don’t involve our hands. However, there are plenty of things we can do to stay entertained and engaged without relying on our hands. In this blog post, I will talk about some of the activities that don’t involve using our hands and can keep us mentally and physically active.

Here are the things to do that don’t involve your hands

1. Listening to music

One of the best things to do that doesn’t require your hands is to listen to music. Music is an excellent way to relax and unwind, and it can also provide a mood boost. You can listen to your favorite songs or explore new genres, depending on your mood. There are several ways to listen to music, such as through the radio, streaming services, or CDs.

2. Watching movies or TV shows

Another great way to pass the time without using your hands is to watch movies or TV shows. You can catch up on your favorite shows or discover new ones. Streaming services like Netflix or Hulu provide a wide range of options to choose from. You can also watch movies on DVD or Blu-ray or catch them on cable TV.

3. Playing games

Playing games is a fun way to keep your mind engaged without using your hands. You can play games like chess, checkers, or card games that don’t require you to use your hands. There are also video games that you can play using voice recognition or eye-tracking technology.

4. Doing puzzles

Puzzles are a fantastic way to keep your mind active without using your hands. You can do jigsaw puzzles, crossword puzzles, or word search puzzles. There are also tactile puzzles that you can do without using your hands, such as the Rubik’s cube, which you can solve using your feet or other body parts.

5. Listening to audiobooks

If you enjoy reading, but can’t use your hands, then audiobooks are a perfect solution. You can listen to your favorite books, and it’s an excellent way to pass the time. You can also explore new genres or authors that you might not have read before.

6. Meditating

Meditation is an excellent way to reduce stress and anxiety, and it doesn’t require the use of your hands. You can meditate by sitting in a comfortable position and focusing on your breath. There are also guided meditation apps that you can use to help you get started.

7. Doing yoga

Yoga is an excellent way to stay active and flexible, and it can be done without using your hands. You can do chair yoga or practice standing yoga poses that don’t require the use of your hands. Yoga can help improve your balance, reduce stress, and boost your mood.

8. Watching wildlife

Watching wildlife is a great way to connect with nature and observe the world around you. You can watch birds or other animals in your backyard or visit a local park or nature reserve. It’s a great way to relax and unwind while enjoying the beauty of nature.

9. Writing

Writing can be an excellent way to express your thoughts and feelings, even if you can’t use your hands. You can use voice recognition software or dictation apps to write your ideas. You can also use your feet or other body parts to type on a keyboard or write on paper.

10. Listening to podcasts

Podcasts are a great way to stay informed and entertained, and you don’t need to use your hands to listen to them. You can listen to news podcasts, comedy podcasts, or educational podcasts, depending on your interests. There are thousands of podcasts to choose from, so you’re sure to find something you enjoy.

Can I still exercise even if I can’t use my hands?

One way to stay mentally stimulated is by reading books. Whether it’s fiction or nonfiction, reading is an excellent way to stimulate your mind and keep your brain active. Audiobooks are also a great option if holding a book is difficult.

Another way to stay mentally stimulated is through music. Listening to music can be a great way to boost your mood, reduce stress, and keep your brain engaged. You can also learn to play a musical instrument or take up singing, even if you can’t use your hands.

Watching movies or documentaries can also be an excellent way to stay mentally stimulated. Many streaming services offer audio descriptions of movies and shows, making it easier for those with visual impairments to enjoy them. Additionally, watching wildlife and nature documentaries can be a great way to learn about the world around us and stay engaged in learning.

Engaging in creative activities like writing, drawing, or painting can also be a great way to keep your mind active. Even if you can’t use your hands, there are ways to adapt these activities. For example, you can use voice-to-text software to write or try painting with your mouth or feet.

Finally, practicing meditation or yoga can be a great way to stay mentally stimulated and improve your overall well-being. These practices can help reduce stress, improve focus, and boost your mood.

How can I stay mentally stimulated without using my hands?

One way to stay mentally stimulated is through audio-based activities. Podcasts, audiobooks, and radio dramas can all be enjoyed without the need for physical interaction. They provide a great way to learn new things and keep your mind engaged while resting your hands.

Another great option is to explore the world of virtual reality. Many VR games and experiences allow you to engage with a virtual environment using voice commands or head movements, making them ideal for individuals with mobility limitations. You can explore new worlds, solve puzzles, and engage in social experiences all without needing to use your hands.

Engaging in creative activities like writing, drawing, or painting can also be a great way to stimulate your mind. Voice-to-text software can be used to write or you can try painting with your mouth or feet. These activities provide a way to express your creativity and keep your mind engaged.

If you enjoy learning, there are many online courses and educational resources available. From language learning to computer programming, you can learn a new skill or subject without needing to use your hands.

Finally, engaging in meditation and mindfulness practices can be a great way to keep your mind active and healthy. You can practice deep breathing exercises or guided meditations, which can help you reduce stress and improve your overall well-being.

Are there any resources available for finding activities that don’t require the use of hands?

Finding activities that don’t require the use of hands can be a challenge, but there are many resources available online that can help. Here are some of the best resources that we’ve found:

The Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation

The foundation offers a comprehensive list of resources and activities for individuals with mobility limitations. The list includes everything from adapted sports and recreation to arts and crafts.

Abilities Expo

Abilities Expo is a nationwide organization that offers an annual event featuring products, services, and resources for individuals with disabilities. They also offer a variety of online resources and webinars on topics related to disability and accessibility.

Disabled World

This website offers a wide range of resources for individuals with disabilities, including a section on hobbies and interests that don’t require the use of hands. The section includes ideas for activities such as gardening, photography, and writing.

Accessible Yoga

Accessible Yoga is an organization that offers yoga classes and resources for individuals with disabilities. Their website includes a variety of free resources, including videos and articles on yoga poses and breathing exercises that can be done without the use of hands.

Disabled Sports USA

Disabled Sports USA offers a variety of adapted sports and recreational activities for individuals with disabilities. Their website includes a searchable database of local programs and events.

NIDILRR

The National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research offers a variety of resources on adaptive sports, recreation, and leisure activities. Their website includes a searchable database of programs and resources.

In conclusion, there are many resources available for finding activities that don’t require the use of hands. Whether you’re interested in sports, arts, or yoga, there’s a wide range of options available online. So don’t let physical limitations hold you back from exploring new hobbies and interests!

Can I still participate in social activities if I can’t use my hands?

Living with mobility limitations can be challenging. However, just because you can’t use your hands doesn’t mean you have to miss out on social activities. Here are some ways you can still participate in social activities without using your hands:

Firstly, attending events that cater to your interests is a great option. You could attend a music concert, a theater performance, or a comedy show. If you’re interested in art, you could visit a museum or attend an art exhibition.

Secondly, participating in group discussions can be a great way to engage with others and share your thoughts and ideas. Whether it’s a book club, a movie club, or a philosophy group, there are plenty of options available.

Thirdly, joining a support group can provide a safe space for individuals with similar challenges to connect and support each other. You can join a support group either online or in person to meet others who share similar experiences.

Fourthly, trying adaptive sports can be an excellent way to stay active and social. Many sports have been adapted to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. You could try wheelchair basketball, adaptive cycling, or wheelchair rugby. Not only will you get to participate in a sport, but you’ll also have the opportunity to socialize with others who share your interest.

Finally, volunteering can be a great way to give back to your community while also meeting new people. There are plenty of organizations that would welcome your help, such as food banks, animal shelters, and hospitals.

What are some creative ways to do everyday tasks without using my hands?

Living with mobility limitations can make everyday tasks that most people take for granted, such as brushing their teeth, eating, or opening doors, challenging. However, with a little creativity and adaptation, there are many ways to perform these tasks without using your hands.

One way to perform daily tasks without using your hands is by using your feet. For example, you can use your toes to pick up small items such as keys, pencils, or coins. You can also use your feet to operate switches, such as light switches, or to press buttons on the TV remote control.

Another option is to use assistive devices that are designed to help individuals with mobility limitations. These devices can range from simple aids such as grip pads or strap-on utensils to more complex devices such as electronic page turners or speech recognition software. These devices can significantly improve your ability to perform everyday tasks independently.

You can also use your mouth to perform certain tasks, such as opening jars or bottles. You can place the jar or bottle between your teeth and twist it open. Similarly, you can hold a pen or pencil between your teeth to write or draw.

Using voice-activated technology is another way to perform daily tasks without using your hands. Smart home assistants such as Amazon Echo or Google Home can help you control devices such as thermostats, lights, and even appliances like coffee makers and ovens, using voice commands.

Conclusion

There are plenty of things you can do that don’t require the use of your hands, even if you have mobility limitations. From listening to music and watching movies to playing games and doing puzzles, there are many options to keep you entertained and engaged. 

You can also practice meditation or yoga, watch wildlife, write, or listen to podcasts. Remember, staying mentally and physically active is essential for your overall well-being, even if you can’t use your hands.

So, what are some of your favorite activities to do that don’t involve using your hands? Are there any other suggestions you have for others in a similar situation? 

Let me know in the comments below and share your experiences. Let’s continue to support and inspire each other to stay active and engaged, no matter what challenges we face.