Whether you agree or disagree with the actions taken to combat the spread of COVID-19, there is no avoiding the social distancing measures being enforced throughout the country. Many people are staying inside and are unsure of what to do with themselves with all this extra spare time.

If you feel like you fall under that category, The Wood Word has you covered. Here is a list of things you can try to keep yourself occupied while indoors.

Looking for something to do alone? Try one of these.

1. Art

Focus your creative energy by making art. You can try a new drawing technique, open the new supplies you bought and never used and use your favorite colored pencils to make a new piece or fill in a coloring book. The possibilities are endless.

2. Take an online class

There are plenty of massive open online courses to choose from. Some ivy league colleges are even offering their courses online for free!

3. Learn a new language

There hasn’t been a better time to start start focusing on a new language. Try using an app or an online program such as Duolingo, Babbel or Rosetta Stone to get started today.

4. Take a nap

Self care is important even when you’re spending all your time at home. If you begin to feel sluggish or unmotivated, try taking a short nap to wake up feeling energized and ready to take on anything.

5. Play a game

Whether it is a board game, free online games or the newest video game, playing a game is a great option for anyone looking to entertain themselves. From arcade games and 100 hour role-playing games to others such as Yahtzee and Uno, there are plenty of options to keep you busy.

6. Read a book

If your book collection has been piling up with unread novels, there is now a lot of time to start getting through all of them. Whether you’re an avid reader or just looking to start, pick up an old favorite or dive into a new novel.

7. Design a comic strip

You can base the main character on your own life or create someone who is superhuman. A comic strip is less in-depth than an entire book, but will keep you busy drawing until you get to the end.

8. Start a vlog

Vlog about your social distancing experiences, makeup or even cooking. Vlogging serves as a good chance to share what you love with the world. If you’re not sure where to start, consider taking a video editing course. If you can entertain yourself, you just might entertain others.

9. Make cards

Send them to your friends, family or anyone you know that is in need of a little extra love during these trying times.

10. Exercise

Don’t forget that you are allowed to go outside, you just can’t get too close to others. Going for a walk, run or following a yoga video will keep your body in shape which is very important considering most people are not as active as they were before the COVID-19 pandemic.

11. Clean

A clean home is a happy home. If you don’t have anything planned for the day, consider keeping your space clean to maintain a positive mood and healthy lifestyle.

12. Rearrange your bedroom

You have plenty of time, so consider rearranging your room and find a new setup that works for you!

13. Bake or cook

Have you ever wished you were a better chef? Now is a good opportunity to learn! Find a new recipe or try creating something on your own.

14. Write a play

If theater is your thing, consider writing a play. Renowned playwright Lauren Gunderson even shared playwriting tips on her Facebook page to help you get started.

15. Complete a puzzle

Puzzles stimulate your brain and can keep you entertained for long periods of time depending on its size. Put your mind to the test and see how many you can solve while staying indoors.

16. Concerts

Many artists are streaming mini concerts from their social media platforms since they can’t perform live at the moment. Keep an eye out to see if your favorite musician is hosting a performance on platforms such as Instagram or Facebook.

Miss your family or friends? Give one of these ideas a shot!

17. Netflix Party

If you miss having movie nights, Netflix Party is here to help. With this application, you can watch your favorite movies and shows on Netflix and talk with your friends at the same time!

18. Host a virtual Bob Ross painting night

Using a video chat service such as Netflix Party, turn on an episode of “Bob Ross: Beauty is Everywhere,” also known as “The Joy of Painting,” while you and your friends follow along with the painter’s teachings.

19. Create a playlist with your friends

Creating a shared music playlist can help both you and your friends discover new songs and artists. If you are feeling up to it, you can even video chat with each other and have a dance party.

20. Have a virtual brunch

Invite everyone to make their favorite brunch item, then video chat and eat together! You can have more fun if you pick a new recipe and all cook it together.

21. Host a self care event with your friends

Put on a face mask, paint your nails or even do yoga together via video chat. These all serve as great ways to keep your mind off the ongoing pandemic with the people you care about.

If none of these ideas are for you, check out the video from The Wood Word staff to see more recommendations!

Social distancing can be difficult for some, so if you are in need of help, Marywood University’s Student Health and Counseling Centers have remained open for students to utilize despite the campus closure.

Contact the writers: [email protected] & [email protected]