Retirement can be one of the best phases of your life. The secret to enjoying your golden years is finding activities that keep you active, healthy, and independent.

With all the free time you’ll have, life can get pretty boring if you don’t find things to do. To make the most out of your retirement, consider taking up one or two of these activities that you’ll enjoy for the long haul.

First, yoga is a fantastic choice. It’s great for keeping your body strong and flexible as you age. It also benefits your mind by providing a form of meditation and relaxation through controlled breathing and quiet time. Plus, joining a yoga class in your community is a good way to make new friends. Adding daily yoga to your routine can significantly boost the quality of your life.

Another activity to embrace now that you have more freedom is hiking. After spending so many years indoors at work, it’s time to enjoy the outdoors. Hiking offers excellent fitness benefits, helps keep you mobile, and lets you enjoy the beauty and relaxation of nature. Whether you hike with friends, family, or solo, national and state park rangers can suggest trails suitable for your abilities and interests.

Consider pairing hiking with camping. Now that you don’t have to rush back to work, you can take your time to fully enjoy your camping trips. This leisure allows you to explore your surroundings at your own pace, whether you’re sleeping in a tent, cabin, or RV.

Retirement is also the perfect time to start checking off those bucket-list destinations you’ve always wanted to see. Whether it’s a European vacation, visiting all the major league ballparks, taking a dream cruise to Alaska, or traveling cross-country by train, don’t let another year go by without seeing the places you’ve dreamed of. With a flexible schedule, you can take advantage of great travel deals and plan your trips more spontaneously.

Volunteering is another fulfilling way to spend your retirement. With more free time, you can commit to the causes you’re passionate about. If you miss the structure of work, many volunteer organizations need part-time or full-time help. Using your golden years to volunteer helps you leave the world a better place and enriches your life.

There are countless activities you can take up in retirement. The key is to find what you love and pursue it, keeping you active and young at heart. This approach leads to a satisfying and fulfilling retirement, where you can enjoy each day to the fullest.