10 Things to do While Stuck at Home

BY FIRST FAMILY INSURANCE April 15, 2020
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Many around the world were forced indoors due to Covid-19. A lot of people were not prepared to handle such a long duration of time indoors. If you feel there is nothing to do, or perhaps you are tired of boredom always catching up to you, do not worry; there's plenty you can do while staying home.

 

Read on for 10 things you can do while stuck at home.

 

 

1 - Spring clean

It is April.. and that means it's the perfect time to get started on your spring cleaning list.

 

Have a long list? Start small by tackling one project a day. On Monday, move your fall or winter clothes to the basement and swap in your spring t-shirts. On Tuesday, tackle the linen closet.

 

By keeping your cleaning manageable and spread out, you likely won't get too overwhelmed by this year's spring cleaning!

 

While cleaning or de-cluttering, be sure to set aside your gently used items for donation. Though many places like Goodwill and the Salvation Army are not open to the public currently, they'll reopen soon and be ready to accept your donations.

 

 

2 - Learn a new recipe

With many restaurants and bars closed or only offering take out, you might find yourself in the kitchen a little more often.

 

Take this time to experiment a little. That recipe you've always wanted to master? Give it a shot this week.

 

Craving something sweet? Try out a new cookie recipe. Sure, you probably don't need five dozen cookies, but you could share them. Grab a plate or container and drop off some of those new treats on your neighbor's doorstep. It just might make their day!

 

 

3 - Catch up on your favorite shows

There's a TV show out there for just about everyone. Thriller? Comedy? Reality competition? Just check your local listings.

 

As a bonus, several streaming or premium services are offering free or trial accounts for new members during the COVID-19 pandemic. This could be a great time to try one of those products out at no cost!

 

 

4 - Take a crack at that reading list

Diving into a new book is a great way to escape your home... without actually leaving the comfort of your couch.

 

While your local library or bookstore may be closed, you still have several options when it comes to procuring a bit of literature.

 

Check with your local library about their online reading options, and many libraries offer free e-books to cardholders. Of course, you can also check with your local independent bookstore about online ordering and contactless pickups.

 

 

5 - Try an at-home workout

You don't have to spend your time stuck at home on your couch. Instead, get up and get moving.

 

Consider taking the dog for a long walk around the neighborhood or on the local bike trail. Make sure you keep your distance from other fresh-air seekers.

 

Still too cold in your area for a long walk? Seek out an at-home workout to complete. Pinterest and other online resources offer several ideas to work up a quick sweat.

 

Additionally, many gyms around the country are offering virtual workout options, such as streaming yoga classes. Check with your favorite gym for these options.

 

 

6 - Find a new hobby or skill

Always wanted to learn to knit? Think you have the great American novel in your head? Take this time to explore a new hobby or hone your current skills.

 

Use your social distancing time to explore new challenges; the possibilities are endless: you could learn a new language or take an online course to perfect your Photoshop skills.

 

7 - Find a new (furry) friend

Many animal shelters and rescue centers need your help. Now might be a great time to volunteer as a foster for these pets, or if you're ready to take a long-term leap, adopt an animal in need of a furrever home.

 

With a bit more time on your hands, you'll be able to concentrate on training and show your new friend all the love they could ever need.

 

8 - Work on your garden

With warmer weather on the horizon, consider planting a garden in the backyard. In just a few short months, as we get back to a new normal, you'll have plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables to share over dinner with your friends and families.

 

Don't have a backyard? No worries, you can still flex your green thumb. A simple herb garden or windowsill garden might be just what you need to pass the time and bring a little nature into your home.

 

9 - Explore the arts

Sure the museums and theaters are closed, but that doesn't mean you have to miss out on a little art culture.

 

Many museums - such as the Louvre in Paris or the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam - are offering free virtual tours of their galleries.

 

If you're bummed, you're missing the traveling production of your favorite Broadway musical, have no fear. You can stream high-quality theater through BroadwayHD.com for free for a week.

 

 

10 - Volunteer

Giving back during these difficult times can be a great way not only to pass the time but help your fellow community members.

 

Consider reaching out to your local United Way, food bank, or other volunteer-centric services to see if there's a way you can help during the pandemic.

 

If you're a fan of cards and snail-mail, call the retirement community down the road to see if their residents would appreciate receiving notes. Right now, many retirement homes and nursing facilities have limited the number of visitors allowed, a simple "thinking of you" card could brighten their day!


 

These are just a few ways to change up your same old routine and keep you entertained.

 

Stay safe and get creative.