Budget-Friendly Activities You Can Do at Home During COVID-19
Social distancing has become a way of life during the COIVD-19 pandemic. It’s one of the primary ways we can help to slow the spread of the virus, keeping ourselves and others safe and healthy.
However, social distancing can have negative affects our mental wellbeing. Seclusion is always difficult, but there are ways to mitigate how isolated it makes us feel. Finding what works for you can have a beneficial impact on your mental health and stop you from going stir crazy in the meantime. iGrad recently published a list of ideas to get you started.
Turn to Technology
You might find yourself on social platforms multiple times a day. Are you using them to connect with other people, or just browsing? Social media can help all of us stay connected to each other, so strike up a conversation next time you find yourself scrolling.
Attend an Online Concert of Music Festival
Many artists from around the globe are giving free live performances through their social media accounts. Check your favorite artists’ accounts to see if and when they’ll be giving their own live performance, and then be sure to tune in!
Go to a Virtual Party or Happy Hour
Apps such as Skype, Zoom, House Party, FaceTime and Teams are just a few examples of platforms you can use to meet up with your friends for free. Most of these apps even support video conversations with more than one person, so you can all hang out together like you used to. Make sure to check out Eventbrite for upcoming online events you and your friends can attend.
Watch Content Together
Several free apps and browser extensions allow you to watch movies and shows with your friends and family remotely. You can sync your video playback on your preferred streaming platform, then tune in together like you would before the pandemic. Check out Netflix Part, Kast (previously Rabbit), Scener, and Rave to get started.
Learn a New Skill
Now is the perfect time to learn something new! Learn a new language, learn how to cook, or learn how to play that instrument you’ve had for a while. Whatever your interest, the internet probably has dozens of online courses and classes you can virtually attend, many of which are free!
If you want to support local businesses while you learn, search your network for people to see who may be willing to virtually teach you. Local musicians, artists, and teachers are struggling with the pandemic, and your support can help create purpose for them and help their businesses survive.
Take a Virtual Tour of Famous Attractions and Landmarks
Many of the world’s most popular tourist attractions are hosting virtual tours. Check out the koalas at San Diego Zoo, take in Scotland’s famous Loch Ness, or tour the Sistine Chapel—all from the comfort of your home. Several museums, zoos, and other sites are offering these virtual tours completely free!
Go Offline
The internet is a treasure trove of activities that can keep you connected and entertained, but technology isn’t your only option for budget-friendly activities!
Carve Out Time to Enjoy the Outdoors
Don’t forget there’s a beautiful world, just outside your front door! Never underestimate the power of a little Vitamin D and fresh air. Have your morning coffee outside, take a walk around the block, read your book while soaking up a little sunshine. Being outdoors allows you time to focus on yourself and your health, both mental and physical.
Hang Out With Your Family or Housemates
If you aren’t quarantining alone, don’t forget to hang out with your housemates! Listen to music, cook, play games, watch a movie, or do a puzzle together.
Start an Exercise Routine
If you’ve been on social media recently, you’ve probably seen the plethora of videos of people exercising on their balconies along with their neighbors. It’s a great way to stay active and stay connected. So, try to organize something like that in your home, or simply work out alone wherever you feel most comfortable. Many free apps can provide routines you can do, but you don’t necessarily have to hop online to get started. Simply do a combination of squats, push-ups, sit-ups, jumping jacks and cardio to stay active.
Finish Those Household Chores You’ve Been Avoiding
You’re stuck at home, so why not give it a spring cleaning? Give everything a good wipe down, rearrange the furniture, or organize your closets. There’s never been a better time!
Just Enjoy Being Home
This won’t last forever, so make the most of it while it lasts. Enjoy your pet’s company, read that book you’ve been saving, practice your hobby, or start a new hobby! This is also a great time to learn more about financial planning and setting a budget. Have you done your taxes, yet?
Always Remember…
It’s normal to feel sad, frustrated and bored and a time like this—you’re definitely not alone. But changing your mindset, habits and routines can make a huge difference in the way you feel. Try to view your home as a place of love and security and embrace the things it’s allowing you to focus on. Remember: social distancing is essential for slowing the spread of the virus and keeping us safe.