As we try to “flatten the curve” during the coronavirus pandemic, many of us may be going stir-crazy while social distancing and self-quarantining within our homes.

For those of you who feel this way, options are out there for you.

PLAN FOR TAKE OUT OR DELIVERY

Don’t let the coronavirus lock down stop you from ordering take out or delivery from a local restaurant near you. Restaurants are open for take out and delivery but you should call ahead. Some restaurants have decided to close permanently or will re-open when it is safe to do so. To support your local eateries, you can also purchase gift cards from them or make a monetary donation.

GET ORGANIZED/SPRING CLEAN

It’s time for Spring Cleaning and why not do it when you have the time to purge. It is social distancing at its best!

Go thru that pile of junk mail you have collected over the course of the year. Sort out your closets, dresser drawers, medicine cabinet and kitchen cupboards. Create piles of items to donate, recycle and throw out. Then decide which organization(s) to donate your stash.

READ A BOOK

What is a book lover to do when their local library is closed due to the coronavirus pandemic?

Go here to find FREE library collections available online during these uncertain times we are living in.

LEARN AN INSTRUMENT

Fender announced three free months of lessons on Fender Play.

The company will teach you how to play acoustic guitar, electric guitar, bass or ukulele. All you have to do is sign up and find an instrument. They were blown away by the overwhelming response which they received for this offer. Due to this, they have extended it to the first 1 million who sign up.

MAKE MASKS

Government officials are now advising people to wear masks to protect themselves and others from catching the coronavirus.

Essential errands such as a run to the grocery store or pharmacy are not conducive to social distancing. You should now be wearing a face mask to protect yourself from droplets if someone were to cough or sneeze within your vicinity during these trips.

The CDC and JSong Way have uploaded YouTube videos on how you can make a mask.

CONNECT WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS VIRTUALLY

Using virtual meeting apps for work are now the normal. Why not use these platforms like Microsoft Teams, Skype and Zoom to hold a virtual party, a virtual happy hour or some other type of gathering?

LEARN A NEW SKILL OR HOBBY

If you ever wanted to try knitting, here is a comprehensive FREE class for beginners.

Or you can learn to draw. There are many options on Skillshare for you to try and see if you like.

PLAY BOARD OR CARD GAMES

Turn off the Switch, XBox, PS4, iPads and dig out one of the board games which were stashed in the hall closet years ago. See if you can beat your family at Trivia Pursuit, or how about an epic game of Monopoly or Risk. Since we have hours, days and weeks to while away, there is no need to play the shortened version of any game we choose to play.

Don’t forget to dust off that old deck of cards hanging around to play some poker.

BINGE WATCH A SERIES

Orange is the New Black was all the rage when it debuted in 2013. After seven seasons, it is now coming to a close. If you haven’t watched it yet, perhaps you would like to now?

Binge watching the series Breaking Bad can feel like an emotional marathon, but the payoff is well worth the tumult of the journey.

There’s are many shows which are perfect for binge-watching while you’re still at home.

Maybe it is time to catch up on those classic Seinfeld or Friends episodes.

GET SOME CULTURE WHILE SOCIAL DISTANCING

With many arts organizations and concert halls closing their doors due to concerns about the coronavirus pandemic, there has been a surge in performances offered for free online during the closures. Here is an updated list of great classical concerts and concert libraries that you can enjoy from home.

Your guide to where and when to watch captures of FREE live stream broadcasts of ballets, concerts, plays, operas and musicals while the world is put on “pause” due to the coronavirus pandemic!

Some well-known museums from around the world are offering virtual tours! Why not take advantage of them? Visit a museum without leaving the comfort of your home. Click here for a list.

Or we can have some fun by take a virtual trip to famous National Parks together or alone – no passport required!

JOURNAL OR WRITE ABOUT HOW SOCIAL DISTANCING IS EFFECTING YOU

This is a memorable time in our history when we look back on it at some future date. When can we remember a time in which most of the world is put on “pause”? Write in your diary or journal about it every day. Or if you ever wanted to write a book, there is no better time than now to begin.

GO FOR A SOCIAL DISTANCING STROLL OUTSIDE

You can leave your homes for exercise even under “stay in place” orders, just remember to practice social distancing. Fresh air and exercise are good for not only your physical health but mental health as well. You can take a walk around your neighborhood if you live in the suburbs, go to a park, go hiking or go jogging.

COOK

See what you have in your pantry and cook up a delicious meal or two.

Don’t know how to cook? This is as good a time as any to learn. Skillshare has some FREE classes to get you started.

If all else fails, remember you are not “stuck” at home. Instead, you are “safe” at home!