Forget boredom with these self-quarantine activities

During the coronavirus pandemic, people across the United States have been asked (or forced) to practice proper social distancing and to stay home as much as possible.

At the beginning of the outbreak, working from home may have sounded like a welcome change. After weeks of self-quarantining, the novelty of lounging on the couch and extra privacy has likely disappeared.

Here are some ways you can enjoy yourself during your free time as you continue to stay away from others.

Online happy hours

Weekday afternoons don’t feel the same anymore. Deals on appetizers and drinks are a thing of the past. However, you can still socialize with your friends, even though you can’t meet them at a restaurant. Schedule some time for a video conference call on Skype or FaceTime and grab some refreshments while you gossip about your day.

TV shows, movies, and gaming

Now’s the time to invest in cable or streaming services if you haven’t already. The Netflix Party feature allows you to add a group chat to your video experience while you watch content with your friends at the same time. Xfinity Movie Premieres is now offering movies that are still in theaters, so if your local cinema shut down, you can still catch the flick you were looking forward to seeing. A video game console doesn’t hurt in times like these, either.

Read a book

Utilize the time you would be commuting to work and replace it with the novel that’s been sitting on your bookshelf.

Journaling

A journal is a personal outlet for any feelings and opinions you have. It can be a useful way to organize your thoughts, too. Your mental health may also improve. Keeping a journal can reduce anxiety and stress.

Learn to cook

You can transform your lunch break from a quick trip to the sandwich shop to a culinary class. Whether you try an online course or experiment with recipes on your own, you can use the additional time you have at home to learn how to cook and bake new dishes that will impress everyone once dinner parties resume.

Exercise

Just because your local gym is closed doesn’t mean that you should abandon your exercise routine. Being sedentary is even more tempting as you spend most of your time at home. Take breaks from work to do some push-ups, incorporate a workout video into your morning routine, or go for a brisk walk or run outside. If you do exercise outdoors, make sure to stay at least six feet away from people and wash your hands when you return home.

Do-it-yourself arts and crafts

Get creative! This idea is great for kids and adults alike. Children can exercise their minds by learning to follow directions and making something new. Adults can witness the joy on their kids’ faces or create a unique decoration for their home.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have outlined several behaviors that can help slow the spread of the virus. These include washing your hands for at least 20 seconds and sanitizing frequently used surfaces daily.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any condition, including the coronavirus. If you have any concerns, please speak with your doctor.

Sinclair Broadcast Group is committed to the health and well-being of our viewers, which is why we initiated Sinclair Cares. We encourage everyone to continue to follow the CDC guidelines as we navigate these difficult times. Stay safe and healthy.