Uncovering the Lesser-Known Hobbies and Interests of Nikola Tesla

Nikola Tesla was one of the most influential scientists and inventors of the modern era. Best known for his pioneering work in the fields of electricity and electromagnetism, Tesla’s life and legacy continue to fascinate people around the world. However, beyond his professional endeavors, Tesla was also a fascinating figure with a wide range of hobbies and interests. In this article, we will delve into some of these lesser-known aspects of Tesla’s life and explore what insights they provide into his character and contributions.

The Photography Bug

One of Tesla’s earliest hobbies was photography, which he pursued with great passion during his time in college. He was particularly interested in capturing lightning bolts, a subject that would later become central to his groundbreaking work on electricity. In 1892, he even wrote to his friend George Westinghouse about an idea he had for a “camera-gun” that could take a photograph of an object at the same instant it was struck by lightning.

Pigeon-Fancying

Another surprising hobby of Tesla’s was his love for pigeons. He reportedly spent hours in New York City’s parks feeding and observing them, and even had a favorite pigeon that he claimed to have fallen in love with. Some have suggested that his fascination with pigeons was related to his ideas about wireless communication, which he believed could be achieved through vibrations in the air.

Spirituality and Mysticism

Despite his reputation as a scientist and a rational thinker, Tesla was also deeply interested in spiritual and mystical matters. He was inspired by the writings of Hindu and Buddhist philosophers and saw a connection between their ideas and his own scientific work. He also claimed to have experienced strange visions and hallucinations, which he attributed to his heightened sensitivity to electromagnetic fields.

Health and Wellness

Tesla was also ahead of his time in his interest in health and wellness. He followed a strict vegetarian diet and believed in the power of fasting and exercise to promote physical and mental wellbeing. He also experimented with various forms of alternative medicine, including hydrotherapy and light therapy, although some of these practices were criticized by his colleagues.

The Bottom Line

In exploring these lesser-known aspects of Nikola Tesla’s life, we gain a richer understanding of the man behind the inventions and the scientific breakthroughs. His varied interests and pursuits demonstrate a complex and multifaceted personality, one that was driven by curiosity, creativity, and a deep sense of wonder about the world around him. Perhaps most importantly, they remind us that true innovators are not just experts in their fields, but individuals who engage with life in its fullest and most vibrant forms.