16 Ways to Embrace Social Distancing

Studies show that people over the age of 60 are at a higher risk of experiencing complications from COVID-19. With more cases popping up across the globe each day, it is important that everyone does what they can to stop the spread.

Governments and health organizations are suggesting, and in many cases, requiring people to practice social distancing in order to stay protected and keep the virus contained. Limiting social interactions helps reduce the risk of becoming a carrier (without symptoms) and passing the virus along to someone else.

Practicing social distancing means that we’re stuck in our homes, which after days (or weeks), is going to be challenging. In the spirit of optimism, we want to encourage you to treat this extra time at home as a blessing in disguise so you can get things done you’ve been wanting to do. Here is a list of 16 activities you can do to combat boredom and anxiety while home.

Social distancing activities--things to do while you’re stuck at home

1. FaceTime with family and friends
Social distancing means no restaurants, no bars, no movies, no sports, no events -- nothing social. While we are all unable to see those who mean the most to us, you can always FaceTime or use video conferencing apps. Luckily, modern technology makes it easy for us to still see our loved ones without leaving the house. Why not Facetime with your grandchildren and read them a book?

2. Grab an activity book or start journaling
Been wanting to get your thoughts down on paper? Now is a perfect time. If you’re creatively inclined, start sketching. If you’re not, why not get an adult coloring book or a paint-by-number designed for adults? Or, grab that word search book gathering dust in the corner.

3. Learn to dance
Learning to dance in public might seem a little intimidating, especially for people with two left feet. However, if you have always wanted to learn there’s no excuse not to learn when you’re alone in the comfort of your own home! From ballroom dancing to salsa, cha-cha and more YouTube is the perfect source for you to learn how to dance.

4. Spend time with your pet(s)
There are many benefits that come with pet ownership. Animals are said to help reduce stress, lower blood pressures as well as increase physical activity. They can also have a positive effect on helping someone combat symptoms of depression and feelings of loneliness. Give your pet some extra kisses and cuddles. Not only will they appreciate the extra love, but it will help make you feel better as well.

5. Virtual tours
Do you wish you were on a fun vacation right now? Why not pretend that you are and take a virtual tour of some amazing museums around the world from the comfort of your couch. From the Guggenheim Museum in New York to the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, Travel & Leisure just released a list of 12 museums you can take a virtual tour of.

6. Get Organized
Start spring cleaning. Now is the perfect time to get things organized around your home. Go through your closet and remove clothing that you no longer wear, organize drawers so you can easily find what you’re looking for, clean out that room you have been dreading.

7. Meditate
There is no better time than now to get your meditation on. Meditating is a great way to regain control over your mind and body, and it's only a 10-minute commitment a day when you use the Headspace app.

8. Learn a language
Have you always wanted to learn a new language? Or maybe there’s a vacation you want to go on and want to know the basics of the language they speak. Duolingo offers a free service that will teach you the basics of any language.

9. Try a new recipe
You never know what you can find in your pantry that you might have forgotten about. FridgeToTable will help you come up with a recipe using whatever you can find around your house.

10. Plan a trip
Eventually, the uncertainty of Covid-19 will calm down, and travel will return. Why not spend some time planning your future dream vacation?

11. Do a puzzle
I’m sure most of us have a jigsaw puzzle lying around the house, if you don’t you can easily order one online. Studies have shown that jigsaw puzzles can help maintain sharp cognitive function.

12. Learn a new skill
From the basics of calligraphy to creating a chunky blanket, the internet is filled with DIY videos and tutorials that will help you gain a new skill.

13. Start a virtual book club
Reach out to some friends and find a book you’re all interested in reading. You can easily hop on FaceTime after you’ve read a few chapters to discuss the book. Are you used to going to your local library to check out books? Most libraries now offer digital collections that you can read on your Kindle or phone. You can connect your library card to the app Libby so you can get access to your local library’s audiobook and e-book selections. Check your local library’s website for more information.

14. Plan a home renovation
Whether you’re sick of the way your bathroom looks or the white walls in your living room, now is your chance to change things up a bit. Head over to Pinterest to create an inspiration board for each room in your house.

15. Whittle
To whittle, all you need is a pocketknife and something to carve. If you don’t have any wood laying around, tree branches from the backyard may even work. There are plenty of simple whittling projects that you can create in your downtime.

16. Wildlife webcams
Can’t get to the zoo or go on that safari you wanted to? Bring the animals to the comfort of your living room with these wildlife webcams that get you up close and personal with all your favorite animals.

How are you currently staying entertained? Tell us in the comments below!