With everything closed from museums to concerts and sporting events as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic, many Americans are faced with significant time spent at home and wondering how to pass the time.
With Federal guidelines on Social Distancing extended to at least April 30th, you may be beginning to wonder what you will do over the next month as you spend more time at home. Safety and Social Distancing is the main priority, so you won’t find any recommendations to go hang out at your neighbor’s house here.
Workout at Home: So many are struggling with gyms and fitness studios being closed down – we are envious of all those with full at home gyms or Pelotons, however, there are great resources online for those looking to get in a sweat and stay mentally sane. The Fitness industry, like many industries, has adapted quickly to all the changes with many instructors going live on Instagram to host daily workouts for their followers, or gyms posting daily online videos for members and non-members alike.
Here are some great online workout options:
CorePower Yoga: on-demand classes on their website with a 7-day free trial and $19.99/month after
Barry’s Bootcamp: Many instructors are hosting workouts on Instagram Live. Find your favorite instructor and check their schedule
Peloton App: Peloton offers much more than just the stationary bike many think of. Their app offers many different work outs from floor sets to runs. The app is currently offering a 90-day free trial
Orange Theory: on-demand videos being posted to the Orange Theory website daily
Bar Method: on-demand videos available on their website. 14-day trial and $19/month after
Start Spring Cleaning and Maintenance: What a better time than now to start those spring tasks around the house to get your home ready for warmer months. Take this time to organize that closet or room you’ve been putting off or get a head start on outdoor work in the flower beds
Brainstorm Home Improvement Ideas: Have you been thinking about a kitchen reno? A new bathroom, perhaps? Use your downtown to put those dreams into an action plan. Research contractors, price out paints, finishes, etc. When things get back to normal, you will be ready to efficiently move forward with your renovation idea.
Take Walks: Getting out of the house and moving is so important to mental health and helps get some movement in. Go on walks around your neighborhood or on your public trails. Most public trails remain open for fitness, but please be conscious if you are using a public trail or path to adhere to social distancing guidelines.
Support Local Business: Small business in your community need your help now more than ever – many of these are in the hospitality and retail industries which are being hit the hardest. Check in with your favorite local restaurant to see if they are offering curbside pick-up. Your favorite boutique or store more offer online shopping.
Take a Virtual Tour of a Museum Around the World: While Museums around the world are closed, head to Google Arts and Culture to virtual tour an exhibit. More than 500 museums across the globe teamed up with Google to offer a virtual peak inside their doors.
Listen to Podcasts: Netflix binging is a given, but have you considered Podcasts? Play them while you are working from home, cooking, or doing work around the house. Name and topic, and you will likely find a Podcast on it. From comedy, to series, to news, it is a great way to keep your mind occupied during the day.
Foster an Animal: Animal Shelters across the country are facing a crisis as many have been forced to close. Consider using your downtime to help Shelters ease the burden while they are closed and foster an animal…who knows, you may end up falling in love and keeping it!
Brush Up on Skills or Learn New Ones: Use your newly found weekends to brush up on your existing skills – does your profession require continuing educate? Now is a great time to tackle that often dreaded task as many industries are offering these courses online.
Free time is also great for learning a new skill that you have always wanted to learn, but have pushed off because you just didn’t have the time. From TED talks to YouTube videos, and even Ivy League courses, you can find a host of material online for free to learn about that topic you have always wanted to. Check out ClassCentral.com for a list free online courses being taught by top universities around the country.