Tips for ending isolation

[ILoveLife]

Hi all. Not sure this is the right forum for this, sorry mods if it isn't.

I've been depressed from my self-imposed 5 year isolation and other issues, those issues would be less horrible if I wasn't so isolated.

I have a few ideas on my mind, but most of them will take a while to take hold so I need ideas for things to do right now.

I've taken a look at meetup.com but most of the meetups include booze (even the hiking ones say for folks to take wine!!), so I've been thinking of maybe creating a sober meetup and see if anyone comes, but that would mean ME getting in front of it and overcome the issue, which I don't feel I can currently do.
I would like to "baby steps in combat boots" first, then dive into "the peoples" afterwards.

I've thought about:
Art courses
Sewing courses
Yoga studios

It's not much, but I think I could do at least one of these, then add another.

I don't do gyms, just fyi!

So, what do you do to combat isolation and what tips do you have for me?

Thank you all so much.

 

[MrMoonlight]

I'm just coming out of a long-term self-imposed isolation too. It's so difficult for me to get out there and join these groups but know I need to in order to resocialize myself, maybe meet people and gain friendships.

I do better with a structure built into the gathering or whatever. I like to know what to expect and am more comfortable in that setting.

I am thinking about getting a camera. This would be a good artistic outlet that would get me outside and casually meet people while working on photography skills. There would also be DSLR classes I could take which would be a good place to meet people with similar interests.

 

[Innordinate]

have you read anthonys thread about 10 ways to decrease isolation?

 

[shimmerz]

I don't do gyms, just fyi!

Do you swim? Is there an indoor pool around?
The library? I can't read at this point but used to love it. I am trying though. Every week, 5 books out. Look around the library to see what is happening in the community etc.
We have varagesale.com here in my area. It is great for engaging with others - even minimally.
I like dogs. I don't have one. I go to the local offlead park and hang out with owners and watch their beautiful dogs.
I became involved in the WRAP community. This has served me really well. I have made a bunch of friends/acquaintances/social circles. They all understand as well if I have any of my 'issues' while we are out. We also chat about 'possibilities' and are often an incredible form of support to me.

I have been thinking about a meetup. I haven't done it yet. Still working on the swimming too.

 

[Friday]

Urban or Rural?

 

[ILoveLife]

@Friday - urban