You’ve already finished all your puzzles, attempted a sourdough loaf from scratch, and binged Tiger King in one sitting. What now? Without the daily routine and social interactions you’re used to, it can feel like the hours just seem to drag. Here are a few (productive) ideas to beat boredom and keep you busy when you’re stuck at home.
Exercise your brain. Already planning your first big trip after travel restrictions are lifted? Research has shown that the complexity of learning to speak a new language can actually lower your risk of developing Alzheimer’s and dementia, as well as boost your intelligence and concentration. Try a free language-learning app, or jump on a Zoom call with an instructor to practice.
Host a digital game night. Get the gang together (virtually) and play your favorite games. Many popular games have online versions that can accommodate up to 8 players. Or keep it classic with video-chat charades, 20 questions, or hangman. Whatever you decide to play, make sure everyone is stocked with game night snacks!
Start a book club. We’ve all got a list of books we’ve been meaning to read, but haven’t gotten around to it. Even if you can’t get to the bookstore right now, you can download digital copies to e-reader apps or listen to an audiobook version. Stay motivated with weekly virtual book club meetings with your group, where you discuss the themes, characters, and takeaways together.
Learn something new. Have a guitar collecting dust in the corner? Never been able to nail a French braid? Wishing you knew how to make mom’s prize-winning lasagna? Tap the internet for how-to videos, search Pinterest boards, and ask your family for their recipes and get to it.
Pamper yourself. An at-home spa day is the perfect self-isolation activity. You can even add DIY to the mix, and make your own face masks and hair treatments. Bring the spa to you and book an on-demand massage with a certified Soothe therapist. Don’t forget the aromatherapy candles or diffusers, soothing music, and “no kids allowed” sign to really amp up the relaxation.
Access your inner child. Kids are pretty good at having fun, so take a cue from them: break out the coloring books (they make them for adults, too), make your own bubble mix, or build an epic pillow fort. Bonus points if you can get your hands on your favorite childhood snacks, too.
Give yourself a massage. Take a few minutes to work out the stiffness with simple massage techniques. For an easy neck massage, gently massage the back of your neck along the line of your skull, starting from the middle and working your way behind your ears. Use a tennis ball or a large rubber ball to give yourself a foot massage. If you have a foam roller, you can roll out any tension in your back or legs. Some gentle stretching has huge benefits, too!
It’s OK to Do Nothing, Too
Our culture is very success-oriented, always striving for positive progress, and putting immense pressure on ourselves to do more. While social distancing and staying home, you have a unique opportunity to simply do nothing — and that’s perfectly ok! In fact, giving yourself a break is important for your mental health. So next time you say to yourself, “I’m SO bored,” take a moment to appreciate the little break in the constant hustle and just be.
