5 Productive Ways to Stay Busy While Sheltering in Place

Let's start by clarifying that during this challenging time, it is absolutely fine to NOT be productive. We are all under unimaginable stress and sometimes the best we can do is to simply get through the day. Surviving another day in this new COVID19 world is an accomplishment worth celebration. 

However, if you are beginning to get antsy and need some activity ideas to take your mind off the tragic news, these are our best ideas.

1. Grow Your Own Food

Whether you have an expansive back yard or a tiny urban apartment, everyone can grow their own food. Planting, growing, and harvesting your own food is one of the most satisfying processes and is part of our fabric as humans. During a time when fresh produce is becoming scarce, growing your own may also become a necessity. 

Back to the Roots has indoor kid friendly growing kits that are perfect for apartments or homes with small yards that prohibit growing. If you are able to grow in large pots or a yard, check out Burpee for seeds and starter kits. 

2. Knit, Of Course

Not only is knitting good for your soul, knitting also makes you happier! Known to be a stress reliever, the repetition of knitting is soothing and relaxing. The end result is so satisfying when you are able to create a useful garment with your two hands and a bit of skill. 

If you are new to knitting, teach yourself with instructional knitting videos. If you have a bit of experience, dive into a cool, new project such as:

• Beanie Kit. A beaded beanie kit that looks like a swirl of stars is uplifting and fun to make. 
• Checkmate Cardigan Kit. This seamless, bottom-up raglan cardigan with V-neck is the perfect project for sheltering in place.
• Cozy Composition Socks. Perfect for lazy days at home, cuff down socks with an all-over lace pattern is another great project to fill some time and feel productive.

 3. Host a Virtual Happy Hour

Whether you use Zoom or HouseParty app, staying connected is necessary during this time of social isolation. Before COVID19, did you meet up with friends every Wednesday night? Perfect! Continue meeting up virtually. 

We may be stuck in our homes away from friends and family, but we don't have to be socially isolated. Taking the time to schedule virtual meet ups is not only fun, it is great for our mental health during these uncertain times. 

4. Start a Fitness Routine

Are you always so busy that you put your fitness on the back burner? Now is a great time to develop a home based fitness routine. Many local gyms are live streaming fitness classes and training sessions for free. Remember that sheltering in place doesn't mean that you can't head outside for a brisk walk or bike ride. 

If you have thought about adding some fitness equipment to your home, now is a great time to check out Peloton or NordicTrack and create a daily routine. It is important to maintain physical health to maintain mental health through this time of isolation.

5. Read a Good Book (Or Five)

Do you have a stack of books that you have been meaning to read? Maybe you have a catalog of ebooks on your Kindle waiting for you to have a free moment. Dive into a good book and leave reality behind for a bit. Laugh, cry, learn something new. Transport yourself to a place and time with no pandemic for a few hours each day.

Over the next few weeks and months, the most important thing is to care for yourself and others. Stay safe!