Every day we get a new update from government officials on closures and restrictions- often with the singular message “STAY HOME”. While self-isolation is becoming increasingly necessary in our efforts to “flatten the curve”, boredom will inevitably creep in as we keep the coronavirus out. Afterall, there is only so much work you can do at home and only so many closets to organize.

To keep yourself from going completely stir crazy, try one (or all) of these seven self-isolation boredom busters:

1. Start an At-Home Workout Routine

It is impossible not to feel some degree of anxiety as we watch the news, read articles about the COVID-19 pandemic, scour stores for a single roll of toilet paper, and distance ourselves from the rest of the world. One of the best ways to deal with that overwhelming stress is to maintain physical activity. During this time of self-isolation, keep your body moving by utilizing one of the MANY free home workout subscriptions that are currently available. Companies like Peleton are extending their free trial periods from 30 to 90 days as a way to encourage a healthy lifestyle while social distancing. With yoga, HIIT and strength training options, you don’t even need to purchase a treadmill or bike to participate in classes!

To start your at home fitness journey, click here:

https://www.onepeloton.com/app

2. Learn to Cook

Have you always wanted to learn how to cook? With dining out options nonexistent, learning to cook has adopted a new sense of immediacy for the culinarily challenged. Pinterest is an amazing place to start looking for mouthwatering recipes, with YouTube being an excellent resource for tutorials on various cooking techniques. You may not end this period of self-isolation being a Michelin Star chef, but at least your diet won’t have solely consisted of ramen noodles and boxed macaroni and cheese.

3. Host a Virtual Happy Hour

Feeling bummed that with bars and restaurants closed your weekly happy hour with friends is canceled? Pour yourself the beverage of your choice and Facetime with your friends. With social interaction being limited, it is even more important to prioritize these social encounters. Remember, social distancing does not have to equal emotional distancing.

4. Have a Movie Night

Social distancing can’t keep us from watching our favorite shows with friends! With the ability to sync video playback and group chat throughout your favorite TV shows and movies, Netflix is making it possible for us to continue to connect through Netflix Party.

To join the party, click here:

https://www.netflixparty.com/

5. Start a Book Club

Have you been wanting to join a book club, but never had the time to actually read a book? Now is the time. Reach out to friends who may be interested, select a book and set a date to “meet up” online using a platform like Zoom.

To view a list of Book Riot’s 20 best book club books for 2020, click here: https://bookriot.com/2019/12/20/best-book-club-books-2020/

6. Play a Game

Solitaire isn’t the only option from those who are self-isolating. Jigsaw puzzles, crossword puzzles, and Sudoku are all great options if you are solo, while card games and board games are limitless if you are cooped up with other people for the foreseeable future.

7. Tour a Museum

Have you always had the itch to travel and visit museums around the world? Now is your chance, from the comfort of your own couch! There are museums worldwide that are offering free virtual tours to bring culture and education directly into our homes.

To tour the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, click here: https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/van-gogh-museum?hl=en