Lockdown. Quarantine. Isolation. Social Distancing.
It doesn’t matter how you word it, we’re all basically homebound for our safety and the safety of others. A lot is uncertain as we see our world changing on a daily, sometimes hourly, basis. Instead of lamenting the things we can’t do, why not take a look at activities we CAN do?
When you’re done with your work for the day, don’t plop in front of the television! Take advantage of your newfound free time (and some really cool resources) to learn something new.
1. Take a Class Online
What have you always wanted to learn but never found the time to try? Now is the perfect time to explore your interests in nearly any field. With much of the world’s population in isolation, several courses are available for free.
Note: Be wary of the sites you’re using. Stick with reputable sites!
Advance Your Career
Plan ahead and pick up some new skills while you’re hunkered down at home. The Muse has a fairly comprehensive list of 41 free courses to advance your career, but a quick search should open the door to hundreds more. Alison.com is another excellent career training site with several options available.
Learn a New Language
Learning a new language is valuable for many reasons, and now is the perfect time to explore the opportunity. Programs like Rosetta Stone, DuoLingo, and Babbel are great for beginners and those looking for a refresher.
If you’re craving some social interaction, some people are offering video tutoring sessions to teach languages to others. Do an internet search, check the classifieds, or post a call out on social media that you’re looking for somebody to teach you French, German, or even American Sign Language.
Expand Your Horizons
Have you ever wondered what class is like at an Ivy league school? Do you regret not taking a philosophy class? You don’t have to attend college (or even be accepted to one) to take some of these intriguing courses. Work at your own pace and explore topics you always wondered about.
Freecodecamp.org compiled a list of 450+ Ivy League courses.
Apple users can take advantage of an array of courses through iTunesU.
Udemy is another option for online learning, but it will cost you a bit.
Coursera offers an array of technology-based courses from companies and universities.
2. Enjoy a Free Concert or Broadway Show
The entertainment industry is suffering in this COVID-19 world. Even Broadway closed down to embrace social distancing, but that doesn’t mean you lose all access to the arts.
Experience the Magic of Broadway
Yes, some of the most famous theaters in the world sit empty and waiting for this pandemic to end. Thankfully, you can experience 157 musicals and shows from the safety of your home - for a limited time.
Virtual Concerts
Proving that nothing keeps the music out, several celebrated artists are sharing performances through social media. If you are craving some live music, grab a pint and hit your couch for access to some of the best live music in the world.
The Dropkick Murphys even live streamed their annual St. Patrick’s concert.
In Colorado, a group of local bands worked together to create a virtual music fest.
Classical music lovers can listen to performances from around the world.
3. Read or Write
Libraries may be closed, but you can still access a plethora of online books (including audio books) using your library card. You can download books to your phone, tablet, or computer. If you really love the feel of a book in your hands, order from your local bookstore or major retailer.
Don’t forget about writing something yourself! This is an unprecedented time in world history, so why not document what’s happening? Start a blog or keep a journal about your day-to-day experiences and how our world changes.
If you’re feeling extra creative, why not start a book or a screenplay? There are loads of resources available to help you from books to taking a Master Class with an established author.
4. Embrace Your Inner Artist
Maybe words aren’t really your thing, that’s okay, you can still express yourself. Gather some art supplies and get to work. Make a statement or just expel some stress, but do something creative!
Pen or pencil and paper may seem boring. Up your game and make a flip-book movie instead! Bonus points if you share it on social media for the world to see!
Watercolors are fun, but you can also use household supplies to paint, like coffee grounds and beets.
Slime is fun and therapeutic. Even adults can benefit from playing with the colorful goo.
You can always order supplies, many art stores and big box stores have plenty available. Creative outlets are important in periods of high stress, so even a coloring book and crayons could make a huge difference in your isolation.
5. Experiment in the Kitchen
Whether you’re a recipe hoarder or you just have a hankering for something different, now is the perfect time to experiment. You can always watch a show or take a virtual class, but there are plenty of other options to fill time in your kitchen.
Bake Some Bread
Battle the bread shortage by baking your own. It’s not a complicated process and the ingredients are fairly common. You can even try a beer bread if you can’t get a hold of yeast!
Grill Out
Fresh air and grilling out will definitely make you feel better. Experiment with different meats, vegetables, and seasonings. Maybe try some s’mores for a special treat!
Reenact Master Chef or Chopped
If you’ve never seen an episode, watch and learn. Make your own challenges with the remnants of your pantry or pull inspiration from the real shows.
Do Your Part to Flatten the Curve
We all want this pandemic to end sooner than later, but that means we all need to do our part. Observe the recommendations set forth by our community leaders, wash your hands, and take care of yourself. That means staying healthy physically and mentally.
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