Stories
Inspiration on unique activities and gifts, mindfulness and more
5 Things to do in Sydney for an Unforgettable Staycation
By Tiffany Fung
Make your Sydney staycation extra special with these five unique experiences—from indulgent chocolate making to creativeMake your Sydney staycation extra special with these five unique experiences—from indulgent chocolate making to creative lino printing and more! ...
Who Said Family Recipes Have to Be Kept Secret
By Tiffany Fung
The secret’s out! This International Women’s Day meet seven ClassBento teachers passing on their knowledge, recipes,The secret’s out! This International Women’s Day meet seven ClassBento teachers passing on their knowledge, recipes, and creative crafts to the next generation. ...
12 Best Paint and Sip Studios in Sydney 2025
By Jana Lepojevic
Find the best paint and sip studios in Sydney in 2025 to enjoy an evening of creation and libation! From furbabies to texturedFind the best paint and sip studios in Sydney in 2025 to enjoy an evening of creation and libation! From furbabies to textured art, art and wine is for everyone ...
Memorable Mother-Daughter Experiences That You Can Do Together
By ClassBento Team
Discover these relaxing gifts for Mum that promote quality time with mothers and daughters! Reconnect over pottery, painting,Discover these relaxing gifts for Mum that promote quality time with mothers and daughters! Reconnect over pottery, painting, cake decorating and more. ...
The History of Kintsugi: The Art of Japanese Pottery Repair
By ClassBento Team
Kintsugi, which means golden joinery, is a Japanese method of ceramic repair that celebrates the beauty of imperfection.Kintsugi, which means golden joinery, is a Japanese method of ceramic repair that celebrates the beauty of imperfection. Discover more about this age-old craft – and try it for yourself! ...
Homemade Chocolate Bonbons You Won't Be Able to Resist This Easter
By Tiffany Fung
Ready to indulge your sweet tooth? Make mouthwatering chocolate bonbons with this easy-to-follow recipe from Choc & Moi—theReady to indulge your sweet tooth? Make mouthwatering chocolate bonbons with this easy-to-follow recipe from Choc & Moi—the perfect treat for Easter! ...
Creative Things to do in Australia Next Month to Fill Your Cup
By Jana Lepojevic
Need a boost? Fill your cup with creative things to do in Australia next month! Try pottery, painting, candle making andNeed a boost? Fill your cup with creative things to do in Australia next month! Try pottery, painting, candle making and more hands-on creative experiences. ...
15 Fun Things to Do for Mother's Day in Australia in 2025
By ClassBento Team
When it comes to fun things to do for Mother’s Day in Australia we’ve got 15 gift experiences guaranteed to make Mum’sWhen it comes to fun things to do for Mother’s Day in Australia we’ve got 15 gift experiences guaranteed to make Mum’s day even more special. ...
9 Unique Mothers Day Gift Experiences in Sydney
By ClassBento Team
Gift your mum an experience for Mother's Day and give the best Mother's Day gift of all - time spent with you!
5 Toasty Date Ideas for Couples in Sydney This Winter
By Jana Lepojevic
Keep the fire burning in your relationship with these 5 unique winter date ideas in Sydney. Cosy up with fun and romanticKeep the fire burning in your relationship with these 5 unique winter date ideas in Sydney. Cosy up with fun and romantic activities that beat the chill. ...
9 Reasons to Sink Your Hands Into a Ceramics Class
By ClassBento Team
Curious about pottery classes? Here are 9 reasons to dive in and try this calming craft.
A Guide to Choosing Good Mother's Day Gifts She'll Love
By Tiffany Fung
Discover our ultimate guide to good Mother’s Day gifts she'll adore, no matter what kind of Mum she is. Gift her a paintingDiscover our ultimate guide to good Mother’s Day gifts she'll adore, no matter what kind of Mum she is. Gift her a painting class, cooking class and more! ...
5 Mother's Day Activities in Sydney to Take Mum in 2025
By Tiffany Fung
Find the best Mother’s Day activities in Sydney and treat her to something special. From terrarium making to skincare pampering,Find the best Mother’s Day activities in Sydney and treat her to something special. From terrarium making to skincare pampering, there’s something for every type of Mum. ...
7 Do It Yourself Mother's Day Gifts to Show You Care
By Tiffany Fung
From handmade soaps to macrame plant hangers, these do it yourself Mother’s Day gifts are the perfect present to show MumFrom handmade soaps to macrame plant hangers, these do it yourself Mother’s Day gifts are the perfect present to show Mum you truly care this year. ...
Creative Date Ideas in Sydney
By ClassBento Team
Discover creative date night ideas in Sydney to reignite a spark! Enjoy unique experiences with your special someone inDiscover creative date night ideas in Sydney to reignite a spark! Enjoy unique experiences with your special someone in 2025. ...
5 Sweet Ideas for First Mother's Day Gifts in Australia
By Tiffany Fung
Looking for ideas for first Mother’s Day gifts? Read our guide on the best ideas to help sweeten up Mum’s day with ourLooking for ideas for first Mother’s Day gifts? Read our guide on the best ideas to help sweeten up Mum’s day with our art, craft and cooking classes! ...
Best Winter Birthday Party Ideas in Sydney in 2025
By Sam Bowden
Discover the best winter birthday ideas in Sydney, from fiery cocktail making classes to cosy indoor activities for crafDiscover the best winter birthday ideas in Sydney, from fiery cocktail making classes to cosy indoor activities for craft-lovers. ...
5 Meaningful Things to Do for Mother's Day with Mum
By Tiffany Fung
Searching for meaningful Mother’s Day gifts? Read our guide to the best things to do for Mother’s Day in 2025, from gardeningSearching for meaningful Mother’s Day gifts? Read our guide to the best things to do for Mother’s Day in 2025, from gardening classes to tasting experiences. ...
Best Tween Birthday Party Ideas in Sydney
By Kellie Maloney
We’ve got all the kids birthday party ideas in Sydney you’ll ever need to create a unique experience that your tweenWe’ve got all the kids birthday party ideas in Sydney you’ll ever need to create a unique experience that your tween will love! ...
The Best Cosy Date Night Ideas to Try This Winter
By Jana Lepojevic
Embrace the cold with these cosy winter date night ideas. From art classes to ring making, find fun and intimate ways toEmbrace the cold with these cosy winter date night ideas. From art classes to ring making, find fun and intimate ways to connect with your partner this winter. ...
25 of the Best Creative Hens Party Ideas in Sydney
By Julia Carr-Catzel
Celebrate an upcoming wedding with creative hens party ideas that will see your group enjoying flower crown making, cocktailCelebrate an upcoming wedding with creative hens party ideas that will see your group enjoying flower crown making, cocktail classes and more! ...
DIY Hot Cross Bun Chocolate Bars
By Courtenay Turner
The ultimate combination of two top-notch sweets, this DIY chocolate recipe is fun to make and a serious step up from store-boughtThe ultimate combination of two top-notch sweets, this DIY chocolate recipe is fun to make and a serious step up from store-bought Easter eggs. ...
5 Creative Date Activities to Bring Couples Closer Together
By Jana Lepojevic
Spice up your love life with our creative date ideas! From pottery to cooking, these fun activities will help you connect,Spice up your love life with our creative date ideas! From pottery to cooking, these fun activities will help you connect, laugh and make meaningful memories together. ...
19 School Holiday Activities for Kids in Sydney
By Laine Fullerton
Redeem your NSW Creative Kids vouchers with these kid-approved school holiday activities in Sydney!
Date Ideas in Sydney for Adventurous Couples
By Tiffany Fung
Try these fun date ideas in Sydney for adventure-loving couples, from shaking up classic cocktails to exploring your localTry these fun date ideas in Sydney for adventure-loving couples, from shaking up classic cocktails to exploring your local neighbourhood through your phone. ...
Everything You'll Learn at Sewing Courses Sydney
By Jana Lepojevic
Learn the art of sewing in Sydney! From beginners to advanced, discover how sewing courses can teach you to make clothes,Learn the art of sewing in Sydney! From beginners to advanced, discover how sewing courses can teach you to make clothes, embroidery and more. ...
Romantic Sydney Dates Based on Your Love Language
By Tiffany Fung
From quality time to physical touch, discover the most romantic date ideas in Sydney, based on your partner’s love language,From quality time to physical touch, discover the most romantic date ideas in Sydney, based on your partner’s love language, and make date nights special. ...
Cocktail Classes in Sydney for Every Special Occasion
By Tiffany Fung
Looking to celebrate a special event? Cocktail classes in Sydney create the perfect atmosphere for you to shake classic cocktailsLooking to celebrate a special event? Cocktail classes in Sydney create the perfect atmosphere for you to shake classic cocktails and bond with your loved ones. ...
7 Best Pottery Painting Classes in Sydney
By Tiffany Fung
If you’re looking for a creative outlet in 2023, head to one of the best pottery painting classes in Sydney.
Our Top Picks for Things to Do with Mum This Mother's Day
By Jana Lepojevic
From cocktail shaking to pasta making, find unique Mother’s Day activities you can do together in 2025 and create meaningfulFrom cocktail shaking to pasta making, find unique Mother’s Day activities you can do together in 2025 and create meaningful memories with Mum this May! ...
Unforgettable Hen Night Ideas for Older Brides
By Courtenay Turner
From cocktail-making classes to flower-arranging workshops, discover the best hen night ideas for older brides. CelebrateFrom cocktail-making classes to flower-arranging workshops, discover the best hen night ideas for older brides. Celebrate in sophistication and style. ...
5 Creative Things to do in Sydney Next Month
By Jana Lepojevic
Discover 5 fun things to do in Sydney next month and banish boredom and empty calendars. These unique activities showcaseDiscover 5 fun things to do in Sydney next month and banish boredom and empty calendars. These unique activities showcase the best of Sydney. ...
13 Unforgettable Experience Gift Cards in Australia
By Annie Symmonds
Discover thousands of unforgettable experience gift voucher ideas in Australia. Treat your favourite people to everythingDiscover thousands of unforgettable experience gift voucher ideas in Australia. Treat your favourite people to everything from pottery making to cake decorating. ...
Nice Mother's Day Gifts for Mums Who Deserve a Treat
By Jana Lepojevic
Celebrate Mum with a thoughtful experience gift! These nice Mother's Day gifts are perfect for relaxation, indulgence andCelebrate Mum with a thoughtful experience gift! These nice Mother's Day gifts are perfect for relaxation, indulgence and quality time together. ...
Thoughtful (and Affordable) Mother's Day Gifts Under $100
By Courtenay Turner
These affordable Mother's Day gifts won't break the bank. From pottery to paint and sip, discover inexpensive experienceThese affordable Mother's Day gifts won't break the bank. From pottery to paint and sip, discover inexpensive experience gifts to suit your budget. ...
Treat Mum to the Best Mother's Day Gift Ideas in Sydney
By Tiffany Fung
Looking to make your mum feel special on her big day? Discover our wide collection of Mother’s Day gift ideas in Sydney,Looking to make your mum feel special on her big day? Discover our wide collection of Mother’s Day gift ideas in Sydney, from soap making to cake decorating. ...
Top 10 Mother's Day Gift Ideas in Australia
By Jana Lepojevic
Looking for the perfect gift? Check out these top 10 Mother’s Day gift ideas in Australia. From pottery to cocktails, theseLooking for the perfect gift? Check out these top 10 Mother’s Day gift ideas in Australia. From pottery to cocktails, these fun experiences will make Mum’s day! ...
Last-Minute Presents for Mum That Are Actually Thoughtful
By Jana Lepojevic
Discover unique last-minute gifts for Mum—from sensory experiences to artsy workshops, you’ll find thoughtful presentsDiscover unique last-minute gifts for Mum—from sensory experiences to artsy workshops, you’ll find thoughtful presents to delight her instantly. ...
9 Wholesome Gift Ideas and Mother's Day Activities for Adults
By Courtenay Turner
From pottery workshops to cocktail making classes, discover the best Mother’s Day activities for adults around AustralFrom pottery workshops to cocktail making classes, discover the best Mother’s Day activities for adults around Australia. ...
Our 7 Best Picks for Last Minute Mother's Day Gifts in Australia
By Tiffany Fung
Looking for last minute Mother’s Day gifts in Australia? Treat Mum to the gift she’ll really want on her special day,Looking for last minute Mother’s Day gifts in Australia? Treat Mum to the gift she’ll really want on her special day, from skincare classes to flower workshops. ...
4 Best Mother's Day Gifts in Sydney for Dog Mums
By Annie Symmonds
Surprise the dog mum in your life with special Mother's Day gift ideas in Sydney. From art workshops to dog park adventures,Surprise the dog mum in your life with special Mother's Day gift ideas in Sydney. From art workshops to dog park adventures, make memories together! ...
5 Sydney Experience Gift Ideas Under $100
By Tiffany Fung
Looking for Sydney experience gift ideas under $100? Explore our range of unique experience presents and find the perfectLooking for Sydney experience gift ideas under $100? Explore our range of unique experience presents and find the perfect gift to impress your friends and family. ...
Celebrate Love with Couple Experience Gifts Sydney for Every Occasion
By Jana Lepojevic
Ditch the predictable and dive into exciting couple experience gifts in Sydney! From date nights to anniversaries, theseDitch the predictable and dive into exciting couple experience gifts in Sydney! From date nights to anniversaries, these experiences are perfect for any occasion. ...
Why I'm Gifting Mum Quality Time in 2025
By Laine Fullerton
Want to give Mum the ultimate gift this Christmas? Our Australian Head of Content Laine lets you in on her top tip. (Hint:Want to give Mum the ultimate gift this Christmas? Our Australian Head of Content Laine lets you in on her top tip. (Hint: it’s all about making memories!) ...
18 Top Mother's Day Gift Ideas in Sydney in 2025
By ClassBento Team
Explore the top Mother's Day gift ideas in Sydney, from candle making courses to DIY pottery kits and much more!
Why Experience Gifts Are My Favourite Holiday Tradition
By Laine Fullerton
Skip the wrapping paper this year! ClassBento Australia's Head of Content shares why experience gifts are the best way toSkip the wrapping paper this year! ClassBento Australia's Head of Content shares why experience gifts are the best way to create lasting memories. ...
The Ultimate Gift Guide to Experience Presents in Sydney
By Tiffany Fung
Discover the joy of giving with our guide to unique experience presents in Sydney. From wine tasting to wheel throwing, we'veDiscover the joy of giving with our guide to unique experience presents in Sydney. From wine tasting to wheel throwing, we've got the perfect gift that they’ll love! ...
7 Reasons Experiences Make the Most Meaningful Gifts for Her
By Jana Lepojevic
Find meaningful gifts for her in Sydney with experiences that place value on moments over things and are tailored to herFind meaningful gifts for her in Sydney with experiences that place value on moments over things and are tailored to her passions and interests. ...
How to Be More Effective with Mental Health in the Workplace
By Sam Bowden
Boost mental wellbeing and create a good office culture with these team building activities in Sydney, the perfect way toBoost mental wellbeing and create a good office culture with these team building activities in Sydney, the perfect way to improve the vibe in your workplace! ...
How to Create the Most Effective Work Culture Environment in Sydney
By Kellie Maloney
From paint and sip to pottery making—boost your workplace culture with these fun and creative team building activitiesFrom paint and sip to pottery making—boost your workplace culture with these fun and creative team building activities in Sydney! ...
Fun Corporate Team Building Activities That Promote Employee Wellbeing
By Laine Fullerton
Spice up your team dynamics with these six engaging corporate team building activities in Melbourne. Foster collaborationSpice up your team dynamics with these six engaging corporate team building activities in Melbourne. Foster collaboration and boost employee wellbeing! ...
Creative Ways to Connect with a Loved One Living with Dementia
By Kellie Maloney
We’ve put together a list of heartwarming ideas designed to help you reconnect with your loved one this Dementia ActionWe’ve put together a list of heartwarming ideas designed to help you reconnect with your loved one this Dementia Action Week and beyond… ...
Be Kind to Your Mind
By ClassBento Team
Increasing isolation and burnout means it's more important than ever to be kind to your mind. Getting involved in fun creativeIncreasing isolation and burnout means it's more important than ever to be kind to your mind. Getting involved in fun creative workshops can help to improve your mental wellbeing ...
How to Build Better Boundaries If You WFH
By Courtenay Turner
Discover how to relieve stress, reduce the likelihood of burnout and improve your overall mental and physical wellbeing.
Stepping Out to Fight Dementia
By Kellie Maloney
On May 22nd 2022, the ClassBento team stepped up to beat dementia at the Sydney Memory Walk And Jog.
Digital Detox Ideas in Sydney
By ClassBento Team
Our digital devices are taking over our lives. Our phones have transformed from being a device that could only help us talkOur digital devices are taking over our lives. Our phones have transformed from being a device that could only help us talk to people, to becoming an endless source of entertainment and engagement. And it's the first place we turn if we're looking for things to do this weekend. It’s no surprise that our devices are so hard to switch off, since they’re designed to be addictive. When we see an email, a comment or a ‘like’, we feel cared about, we feel important – it’s the pleasure of basic social recognition. When we see some news or updates, we feel a rush from our brain’s hit of dopamine. It’s a big problem. Big enough that companies like Google, Apple and Facebook are getting in on the act, providing apps and tweaking their products to help us control our cravings. And it's a problem worth solving. A more balanced life, with more mindfulness, has huge benefits. Studies have shown a correlation between digital addiction and depression/anxiety. Intuitively, you’ll of course have a lot more time to build and develop personal relationships, and relax as you take a break from chasing digital pats on your back, and enjoy the simpler things in life. If you live in Sydney, digital detox is arguably easier than elsewhere. Let’s take Singapore as a comparison. Instead of facing stifling tropical heat and humidity (or torrential downpours) when you step out the door, Sydney actually has pretty nice weather most of the year. Instead of a tiny island where going to malls is the main respite, Sydney has a huge number of activities and natural beauty to enjoy. Here are some of our favourite tips for Sydney-siders (or tourists here for a stay) undertaking digital detox. Get in the water. Swimming, kayaking, or any physical water sport. It’s pretty hard to check your emails while doing any of these activities (even if you have a waterproof device – if you’re anything like me (unfit), you’ll be too busy struggling to stay alive). Be inspired by the beauty of Sydney’s pristine beaches while you’re out there, and remind yourself of the beauty that just can’t be wholly captured in an Instagram photo. Team sports. We Aussies love our sports. Get some friends and go on your detox journey together – it’s harder to quit halfway when you’ve already made promises to your friends. The adrenaline rush you get from sports also keeps you buzzing immediately afterwards (negating the need for electronic stimulants), and also helps you sleep later that night - you'll be too tired to even bother checking your phone. Creative classes. Keep both your mind and your hands occupied as you decide exactly how you want to design a mini garden landscape in a bowl. Mentally travel back to earlier days without the need for scrolling back through your social media, by playing with nostalgic scents in a fragrance-making or candle-making workshop. Or pick up some practical skills like cooking, that you can use over and over again. ClassBento has a range of workshops held in-person by passionate local experts. Meet some new people and form some meaningful and real social connections. Have other tips that are specific to Sydney? Do let us know. Otherwise, we hope you've found these tips useful! ...
Adapting the Workplace for Millennials
By Sarah Hinds-Friedl
Help the workplace adapt to millennials with our team building activities in Sydney! It's a great place to learn somethingHelp the workplace adapt to millennials with our team building activities in Sydney! It's a great place to learn something new while connecting with others. ...
Simple Self-Care Ideas to Support Your Mum's Wellbeing
By ClassBento Team
Know a Mum who could do with some spoiling this Mother's Day? Our Mother's Day gift ideas are perfect for those Mums whoKnow a Mum who could do with some spoiling this Mother's Day? Our Mother's Day gift ideas are perfect for those Mums who need some pampering! ...
Why Plants Are Your Best Friend If You WFH
By Charlotte McKewen
Discover how adding plants to your workspace can brighten up your mood and your day!
Why So Serious? Hobbies Vs. Burnout
By Sarah Hinds-Friedl
Discover fun team building activities in Australia to enhance workplace motivation and avoid burnout in 2025 by finding hobbiesDiscover fun team building activities in Australia to enhance workplace motivation and avoid burnout in 2025 by finding hobbies that you'll love. ...
Re-energise Against Burnout
By Sarah Hinds-Friedl
Boost your team's morale against burnout with our exciting team building activities in Australia, from skateboarding workshopsBoost your team's morale against burnout with our exciting team building activities in Australia, from skateboarding workshops to Turkish mosaic lamp classes. ...
To Spice or Not to Spice: Can Chilli Improve Your Health
By Susana Aguilera
Find out how to add more chilli to your food and what the benefits of chilli are at a Melbourne cooking class near you withFind out how to add more chilli to your food and what the benefits of chilli are at a Melbourne cooking class near you with a focus on spicy cuisine. ...
Best Matcha Recipe Ideas to Improve Your Health
By Julia Carr-Catzel
Matcha, which directly translates to ‘powdered tea’ in Japanese, found its roots over one thousand years ago,Matcha, which directly translates to ‘powdered tea’ in Japanese, found its roots over one thousand years ago, when Japanese monks would consume the beverage, to maintain calm during meditation practice. In modern Japan, matcha, at the center tea ceremonies, continues to reflect Zen culture. It's also an incredibly popular ingredient in Japanese cooking classes in Sydney. Its signature green colour is the result of the slow growth of the leaves under shade, thus obtaining a greater chlorophyll density. Once harvested, the leaves are ground into fine powder, combined with hot water and whisked with a bamboo brush or ‘chasen’ to make tea. Garnering the attention of superfood lovers and others alike, matcha can be found in a slew of sweet and savoury dishes, from muffins to guacamole, the green powder is known to boost mental wellbeing, weight loss and even fight cancer, Alzheimers and dementia. Facts about matcha When consumed daily, matcha supports the immune system, sustaining your body’s antioxidant levels. Its unique class of antioxidants ‘catechins’, specifically ‘epigallocatechin’ (EGC), can ward off agents which damage cell DNA, and thus reduce chance of cancer, and help fend of the signs of ageing. According to a study conducted by Tufts University, its high antioxidant level of 1573 units is far above food such as blueberries (93) and broccoli (31). Matcha promotes longer-term, sustainable energy. The drink lets you skip past coffee jitters, delivering natural caffeine throughout the body over a 6-8-hour period. L-Theanine amino acid found in matcha increases dopamine levels and boosts serotonin, enhances focus, balances your mood and reduces stress. Alongside detoxifying and rebooting internal processes, matcha improves your outer appearance. One spoon of Matcha tea powder is equal to 10 cups of green tea per day, vastly lowering cholesterol and blood pressure and boosting weightloss. The powder inhibits cell degeneration responsible for wrinkles, skin cancer, loss of collagen and skin elasticity. Matcha meals to try Topping countless meal variations, matcha lattes are likely the most common and popular form. In a fresh, yet complex process, lattes comprise of matcha powder, milk and sometimes a sweetener. Added to smoothies, ice-creams and pancakes – its natural bright green aesthetic is favoured among chefs and health-enthusiasts alike. The green hues are refined on social media where one can scroll through hundreds of photos featuring innovative matcha recipes under the hashtag #matcha; crepes, fudge and green granola included. Japanese foods including rice, green-tea ice-cream or mochi also incorporate matcha. To harness the best quality of matcha, the degree of grade, from cooking to ceremonial must be taken into consideration. Ceremonial graded matcha is usually representative of the region it came from, the amount of time the tea spent in shade before harvest, among other factors. Alternatively, cooking grade matcha is commonly used to produce sweeter cafe drinks. Indicators of ceremonial grade are colour: fluorescent as opposed to moss green and flavouring: slightly bitter with a refreshing grassy taste. When not prepared with care, matcha can lose its nutritional properties. And to maximise and neutralise matcha’s antioxidants, various ingredient pairings help to increase its properties such as citrus from lemon, promoting absorption. Vitamin C perfectly compliments matcha’s grassy notes. Typical Japanese desserts such as yoghurt: to balancing out bitter flavours or chewy, sweet mochi: to add a layer of texture to compliment matcha. Discover more traditional Japanese cooking classes here. Learn to use matcha Learn how to harness matcha’s best qualities under the expertise of a professional chef. Cook delectable matcha dishes in Matcha Lovers High Tea workshop alongside chef Yoshiko Takeuchi. Dip your fingers in coconut fudge, make two-colour mocha balls with yuzu and matcha an-paste and cold soba with matcha broth. Yoshiko holds over ten years to her name as a qualified chef, frequenting Sydney’s top kitchens and working alongside professionals including Tetsuya Wakuda. Dedicated to cooking healthily, she states: “I want all my students glow with confidence, energy and healthy beauty.” Yoshiko’s Japanese influenced vegetarian and vegan meals, aim to do just that. Observe Yoshiko’s detailed and easy-to-follow demonstrations, following hands-on practice. Sip on a yuzu matcha mocktail and organic matcha green tea. Take home practical and appetising recipes to replicate at home and incorporate into future meals. Take control of your relationship to food and echo Yoshiko’s philosophy of taking onboard a healthy and enriching lifestyle. ...
Aged Health Benefits and Recreational Classes
By Sarah Hinds-Friedl
The weekend before my great-grandmother passed away at 98-years-old, she took me outside to plant sunflowers. Her daughterThe weekend before my great-grandmother passed away at 98-years-old, she took me outside to plant sunflowers. Her daughter and granddaughter put up a fuss, claiming that it was too hot outside, and that she should rest instead. She just waved a hand and motioned for me to help her stand up. “I’m going to teach my great-granddaughter how to garden,” she said. I think we were all a little bit surprised. In her old age, Nora wasn’t usually so lucid. It was hot that day (the sunflowers wouldn’t survive the sweltering heat waves of the next few months,) but my great-grandmother didn’t seem to mind. Under her sun visor, she was all smiles. As she walked me through the steps of preparing the flowerbed and spreading the seeds in the fresh soil, my great-grandmother was radiating joy. Of course, she was always excited to spend time with family, but this was something different. This energy and warmth had something to do with gardening. In the years since her passing, I’ve always been incredibly grateful for the chance to share that afternoon with her. I was able to see first-hand how a simple task, like caring for a garden, could have such a powerful impact on a woman who had lived for a century. The fact that something as small as planting a seed could still put such a radiant smile on her face astounded me and pushed me to find more information on the power of leisure activities on the elderly. As it turns out, the benefits of leisure activities for everyone are vast, but they can have a particularly powerful effect on the mental health of middle-aged and advanced-aged citizens. Why should we focus on older individuals? As middle age passes into advanced years, our senior citizens have a difficult transition. The things they took for granted in youth, such as mobility and memory, have become less accessible in older age. Even the most joyful and lighthearted of people have to admit that this loss of function can be frustrating, scary, and depressing. The awareness of this slowing down can be especially accentuated in retired individuals, who can no longer focus on a career or feel a sense of fulfillment in their jobs. Luckily, there are ways to ease the transition. Researchers across the world have been searching for solutions to the problems associated exclusively with the experience of aging, and what they found was something that community centers and elderly facilities have been saying all along: creative hobbies are good for our mental state and physical health. Multi-cultural methods: what are they doing in Japan? A 2015 study (1) from the Hamamatsu University School of Medicine in Japan sought to put previous claims of the effectiveness of certain leisure activities to the test. Though they disproved earlier beliefs that participating in social activities could improve mental health in middle-aged and elderly individuals, they did find some overall uplifting benefits to other leisure activities. Their findings found, for instance, that hobbies, cultural activities, physical exercise, and sports all improved the mental health of elderly Japanese citizens. The effect was compounded when such activities were shared with a companion or group. What about Australians? A similar study (2) was conducted by three scholars in 2013 exploring the effect of hobbies on the mental health of elderly women living in Australia. Their impetus for conducting the study was a body of precedent publications that, although dealing with the benefits of creative activities on mental wellbeing, had largely excluded the effects of such hobbies on the older generation. Their definition of creative hobby was expansive: everything from needlework to photography to china painting was included in study. And their findings were incredible: Women involved in such activities were more likely to be socially engaged and showed a lower tendency toward “osteoarthritis, stroke, depression or anxiety/nervous disorder compared with women not involved in those hobbies” (2, page 7). These women were also more likely to be in physically good shape in terms of functionality and enjoy an overall higher quality of life. The reasoning for these benefits is still somewhat unclear. Experts believe that these types of hobbies probably improve mental health by lowering stress, sparking cognitive activity, and producing feelings of fulfillment and pride in participants. How can we use this information? We can all agree that investing our elderly population is a valuable use of effort and resources. After all, they are our parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles. They are future versions of ourselves, as we navigate our own aging process. We certainly wouldn’t be here without them. And in this vulnerable time in their lives, we should put this scientific knowledge to good use. There are lots of possible workshops that retirees and try out or even start themselves such as paint-and-sip classes, stand up paddle boarding, water aerobics, yarn bombing (the rebellious act of covering public spaces with crocheted or knitted works of art). These are just a few examples of the plethora of wacky, fun, unique hobbies out there. This is one of the reasons why ClassBento was started, to make it easier for retirees to try out new hobbies and also allow them to teach their passions and get paid, giving them purpose back in their lives. Our elders deserve it Based on my personal experience with my great-grandmother, I cannot understate the effect of leisure activities on elderly individuals. Seeing the smile light up her face when her advanced years had caused her so much strain and exhaustion was truly a gift that I would encourage every young person to be a part of. So get the older people in your lives involved in a creative pursuit. It will benefit you both! (1) journals.plos.org (2) tandfonline.com ...
Meet Klaypots
By Jana Lepojevic
Join Karina Goudie at Klaypots, her cosy pottery studio in Crows Nest, and find a supportive space to unwind, create withJoin Karina Goudie at Klaypots, her cosy pottery studio in Crows Nest, and find a supportive space to unwind, create with clay and connect with others. ...
Meet Made by Me Workshop
By Tiffany Fung
Rebecca Doyle invites you to craft, create and connect with like-minded people at Made by Me Workshop in Sydney’s InnerRebecca Doyle invites you to craft, create and connect with like-minded people at Made by Me Workshop in Sydney’s Inner West. ...
Meet Omnom Cheese
By Tiffany Fung
Marly Bardia from Omnom Cheese takes the mystery out of cheesemaking and shows you just how easy it is to make yourself—plusMarly Bardia from Omnom Cheese takes the mystery out of cheesemaking and shows you just how easy it is to make yourself—plus how fun it is too! ...
Meet Kimberley Chocolates
By Jana Lepojevic
Joseph Atallah invites you to indulge your senses as you dive into perfume blending and decadent chocolate making in hisJoseph Atallah invites you to indulge your senses as you dive into perfume blending and decadent chocolate making in his light-filled studio space in Lilyfield. ...
Meet Silky Shapes
By Laine Fullerton
Spin and sculpt your own ceramics with Yegana Jafarova at Silky Shapes studio. These pottery classes won’t just teach youSpin and sculpt your own ceramics with Yegana Jafarova at Silky Shapes studio. These pottery classes won’t just teach you techniques, but life lessons too! ...
Meet Seed and Spark
By Tiffany Fung
From visual art lover to me-time advocate, Julie Huynh of Seed and Spark invites you to her sun-filled studio to experienceFrom visual art lover to me-time advocate, Julie Huynh of Seed and Spark invites you to her sun-filled studio to experience resin, glitter and fun! ...
Meet Sydney Creative
By Kellie Maloney
Step inside Sydney Creative and you’ll find a pink and bubbly creative hub in Redfern, where Sophie Parry and her teamStep inside Sydney Creative and you’ll find a pink and bubbly creative hub in Redfern, where Sophie Parry and her team are all about crafting community. ...
Meet the Fox Hole
By Tiffany Fung
Discover the stories behind your favourite drinks at The Fox Hole in Sydney and indulge your senses with an exclusive drinkDiscover the stories behind your favourite drinks at The Fox Hole in Sydney and indulge your senses with an exclusive drink tasting experience you’ll never forget. ...
Meet Crockd
By Tiffany Fung
Crockd has thrown pottery into the limelight with funky DIY clay kits and casual classes, all designed to help you get outCrockd has thrown pottery into the limelight with funky DIY clay kits and casual classes, all designed to help you get out of your head and into your hands. ...
Meet Narda Campbell Designs
By Kellie Maloney
Narda Campbell is a Sydney fibre artist, designer and history nut inviting you to experience the joy of handmade textilesNarda Campbell is a Sydney fibre artist, designer and history nut inviting you to experience the joy of handmade textiles over a homemade mug of mocha. ...
7 Creative Ways Our Team Keeps Their Brain Sharp
By Laine Fullerton
From nature walks to knitting, the ClassBento team shares their favourite things they do to boost their brain health.
Meet Print Paint Pot
By Courtenay Turner
Meet Zena and Elgan, the husband and wife duo behind Print Paint Pot and discover what sparked their passion for potteryMeet Zena and Elgan, the husband and wife duo behind Print Paint Pot and discover what sparked their passion for pottery. ...
Meet Blair Zhang
By Courtenay Turner
After picking up a kid’s watercolour kit on a whim Blair Zhang became a full-time illustrator – join her Sydney workshopsAfter picking up a kid’s watercolour kit on a whim Blair Zhang became a full-time illustrator – join her Sydney workshops and start your painting journey! ...
Meet the Classic Cupcake Co
By Laine Fullerton
From baking for the Royal Family to serving up cakes to the Mosman community, join Anna Eden, founder of The Classic CupcakeFrom baking for the Royal Family to serving up cakes to the Mosman community, join Anna Eden, founder of The Classic Cupcake Co., and learn her cake decorating secrets! ...
Meet Vanessa Opazo
By Kellie Maloney
From full-time architect to calligraphy artist, Vanessa Opazo of Bondi Letters wants to share the art of calligraphy andFrom full-time architect to calligraphy artist, Vanessa Opazo of Bondi Letters wants to share the art of calligraphy and empower you through creativity. ...
Meet Art Masterclass
By Laine Fullerton
Step inside one of Art Masterclass’s studios across Australia and you’ll experience a slice of Turkey and the rich culturalStep inside one of Art Masterclass’s studios across Australia and you’ll experience a slice of Turkey and the rich cultural tradition of Turkish mosaics. ...
5 Things to do in Sydney for an Unforgettable Staycation
By Tiffany Fung
Make your Sydney staycation extra special with these five unique experiences—from indulgent chocolate making to creativeMake your Sydney staycation extra special with these five unique experiences—from indulgent chocolate making to creative lino printing and more! ...
Who Said Family Recipes Have to Be Kept Secret
By Tiffany Fung
The secret’s out! This International Women’s Day meet seven ClassBento teachers passing on their knowledge, recipes,The secret’s out! This International Women’s Day meet seven ClassBento teachers passing on their knowledge, recipes, and creative crafts to the next generation. ...
12 Best Paint and Sip Studios in Sydney 2025
By Jana Lepojevic
Find the best paint and sip studios in Sydney in 2025 to enjoy an evening of creation and libation! From furbabies to texturedFind the best paint and sip studios in Sydney in 2025 to enjoy an evening of creation and libation! From furbabies to textured art, art and wine is for everyone ...
Memorable Mother-Daughter Experiences That You Can Do Together
By ClassBento Team
Discover these relaxing gifts for Mum that promote quality time with mothers and daughters! Reconnect over pottery, painting,Discover these relaxing gifts for Mum that promote quality time with mothers and daughters! Reconnect over pottery, painting, cake decorating and more. ...
The History of Kintsugi: The Art of Japanese Pottery Repair
By ClassBento Team
Kintsugi, which means golden joinery, is a Japanese method of ceramic repair that celebrates the beauty of imperfection.Kintsugi, which means golden joinery, is a Japanese method of ceramic repair that celebrates the beauty of imperfection. Discover more about this age-old craft – and try it for yourself! ...
Homemade Chocolate Bonbons You Won't Be Able to Resist This Easter
By Tiffany Fung
Ready to indulge your sweet tooth? Make mouthwatering chocolate bonbons with this easy-to-follow recipe from Choc & Moi—theReady to indulge your sweet tooth? Make mouthwatering chocolate bonbons with this easy-to-follow recipe from Choc & Moi—the perfect treat for Easter! ...
Creative Things to do in Australia Next Month to Fill Your Cup
By Jana Lepojevic
Need a boost? Fill your cup with creative things to do in Australia next month! Try pottery, painting, candle making andNeed a boost? Fill your cup with creative things to do in Australia next month! Try pottery, painting, candle making and more hands-on creative experiences. ...
15 Fun Things to Do for Mother's Day in Australia in 2025
By ClassBento Team
When it comes to fun things to do for Mother’s Day in Australia we’ve got 15 gift experiences guaranteed to make Mum’sWhen it comes to fun things to do for Mother’s Day in Australia we’ve got 15 gift experiences guaranteed to make Mum’s day even more special. ...
9 Unique Mothers Day Gift Experiences in Sydney
By ClassBento Team
Gift your mum an experience for Mother's Day and give the best Mother's Day gift of all - time spent with you!
5 Toasty Date Ideas for Couples in Sydney This Winter
By Jana Lepojevic
Keep the fire burning in your relationship with these 5 unique winter date ideas in Sydney. Cosy up with fun and romanticKeep the fire burning in your relationship with these 5 unique winter date ideas in Sydney. Cosy up with fun and romantic activities that beat the chill. ...
9 Reasons to Sink Your Hands Into a Ceramics Class
By ClassBento Team
Curious about pottery classes? Here are 9 reasons to dive in and try this calming craft.
A Guide to Choosing Good Mother's Day Gifts She'll Love
By Tiffany Fung
Discover our ultimate guide to good Mother’s Day gifts she'll adore, no matter what kind of Mum she is. Gift her a paintingDiscover our ultimate guide to good Mother’s Day gifts she'll adore, no matter what kind of Mum she is. Gift her a painting class, cooking class and more! ...
5 Mother's Day Activities in Sydney to Take Mum in 2025
By Tiffany Fung
Find the best Mother’s Day activities in Sydney and treat her to something special. From terrarium making to skincare pampering,Find the best Mother’s Day activities in Sydney and treat her to something special. From terrarium making to skincare pampering, there’s something for every type of Mum. ...
7 Do It Yourself Mother's Day Gifts to Show You Care
By Tiffany Fung
From handmade soaps to macrame plant hangers, these do it yourself Mother’s Day gifts are the perfect present to show MumFrom handmade soaps to macrame plant hangers, these do it yourself Mother’s Day gifts are the perfect present to show Mum you truly care this year. ...
Creative Date Ideas in Sydney
By ClassBento Team
Discover creative date night ideas in Sydney to reignite a spark! Enjoy unique experiences with your special someone inDiscover creative date night ideas in Sydney to reignite a spark! Enjoy unique experiences with your special someone in 2025. ...
5 Sweet Ideas for First Mother's Day Gifts in Australia
By Tiffany Fung
Looking for ideas for first Mother’s Day gifts? Read our guide on the best ideas to help sweeten up Mum’s day with ourLooking for ideas for first Mother’s Day gifts? Read our guide on the best ideas to help sweeten up Mum’s day with our art, craft and cooking classes! ...
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