As social distancing measures ramp up in an effort to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, we all will be spending lots of time at home. While this can be frustrating, it is a necessary step in minimizing the spread of the virus.

Thankfully, there are lots of fun and relaxing at-home activities we can indulge in to pass the time. Here are some ideas:

1. Learn a new skill: Maybe you have always wanted to learn to play the guitar, bake the perfect carrot cake, or pick up a foreign language. This may be a time of uncertainty, but it is also an opportunity for personal growth.
2. Catch up on reading: Make a list of 5-10 books you have always wanted to read. If they’re not already on your bookshelf, buy an e-book or secure a free digital copy through your local library’s website.
3. Make arts and crafts: Drawing and painting are great ways to relieve stress, and you don’t have to be a master artist to feel the benefits! Knitting and crocheting are also great options.
4. Play board games or complete a puzzle: If you are quarantining at home with family members, invite them to play with you. Old-fashioned fun is still fun!
5. Binge watch TV shows/movies: Have you always wanted to watch all 16 seasons of Grey’s Anatomy, but never got around to it? Or did you mean to see this year’s nominees for ‘Best Picture’? Netflix can be a great escape from the endless news cycle.
6. Workout at home: With most gyms closed, it is important to stay active from the comfort of our own homes. Thankfully, there are lots of free workout videos on YouTube. I recommend Fitness Blender, Blogilates, and Yoga with Adriene!
7. Deep clean your house: Now is the time to organize your closet, clean out the attic, and get caught up on laundry. A tidy space equals a tidy mind.
8. Facetime friends and family: While you may not be able to see people face-to-face, it is important to stay in touch with loved ones. We can still maintain social connections at a distance.
9. Stay on top of your work: While it is spring break, many of us still have homework assignments to get done. Having a work routine can be a welcome distraction that also helps us maintain normalcy.
10. Listen to music: There’s nothing like some happy beats to shift our mindset. I would steer clear from the sad music for now, though.
11. Keep a journal: Writing our stressors down can serve as a great coping tool. And believe it or not, this may be a time we want to look back on later.
12. Meditate: With anxiety levels high, meditation can help us find some necessary peace. For beginners, there are some great free apps such as Insight Timer, as well as guided meditations on YouTube.

These are trying times, but do your best to stay calm and know that this too shall pass. In Ovid’s words, “Be patient and tough; one day this pain will be useful to you.”