10 Things to do While Stuck Inside

10 Things to do While Stuck Inside

Sometimes, the most heroic thing we can do is stay home. Right now, billions of Americans are practicing social distancing, staying home as much as possible to help “flatten the curve” as the novel coronavirus sweeps through the nation. While staying home has its perks, many of us will feel a little bored or stir crazy in the coming days. So what should we do while stuck indoors? Your friends at Solaris Massage have 10 easy ideas to help you bide your time (and keep your sanity). 

1. Practice some at-home massage. 

Whether you’re isolating with your loved one(s) or on your own, practicing a little self-care through massage is a great way to stay relaxed and keep your muscles from getting too stiff. Get at-home massage advice straight from the experts by following Solaris Massage on Instagram (@solarismassage). We’ll be rolling out some how-to’s along with lots of other special content to keep you relaxed and entertained. 

2. Stock up on gift cards. 

We’re sure you’ve heard this more than once, but gift cards are a great way to keep local businesses afloat during these trying times. Many businesses are now allowing you to purchase gift cards online, so be sure to check the website and social media of your favorite spots. You can purchase gift certificates for Solaris Massage here, but also check out a few other businesses we love. Get your sandwiches and local meats at Local Pig; stock up on books n’ booze at Afterword Tavern & Shelves; get your vintage fix at Dear Society; satisfy your crepe craving at Seven Swans Crêperie; keep your locks in check at Hair Salon KC; and bring home some plant buddies from Virgil’s Plant Shop or Paradise Garden Club.   

3. Do some online learning. 

Now you finally have the time to do that thing you always said you’d do. Practice another language, learn to draw, or further your education with online classes! Lynda.com Get free access to Lynda.com with your Kansas City Library card number. (If you don’t have one yet, get an eCard here.) You can also check out sites like Duolingo, Skillshare, or MasterClass to find courses, or simply search YouTube and see what’s free! 

4. Stream your workouts. 

Working out is important not just for the body, but for the mind as well. Burn some pent-up energy and get your blood flowing by streaming your workouts. Many services are offering extended free trials right now, including Peloton and Core Power Yoga. You can also find some great workouts on YouTube from creators like Yoga with Adrienne, Blogilates, and Funk Roberts.

5. Host a digital cocktail party: Black tie optional. 

We all need a reason to get dressed up once in a while. A digital cocktail party is a great way to break up the monotony of wearing sweatpants and pajamas all day. Set a date with your friends, break out your drink mixing gear, and dress to the nines! Booze optional.

6. Write your heart out. 

Writing is a wonderful form of self-expression. Plus, it’s easy to start! All you need is a pen and paper, or a computer. Whether you enjoy fiction, poetry, or breezy blog-style writing, you’re sure to strike a groove if you just let the words flow. And if writing for yourself feels a bit awkward at first, try starting by writing a letter to a friend, relative, or someone you admire (whether you send it or not is up to you). 

7. Organize. Organize. Organize. 

Spring cleaning isn’t canceled! Some extra time at home is a great chance to tidy up. Wipe down the shelves in your fridge; give your spice drawer some order; clean out your closet; throw out old medicines or makeup products; and even clear off your computer’s desktop. Make a list of places to declutter and tackle one project a day (or one project a week if you’re not feeling so tenacious). 

8. Learn a new dance. 

Tik-Tok has brought dance crazes to a whole new level. Tik-Tok dance tutorials are easy to find on YouTube, so you can kill a few hours and bust a move as you memorize the choreography. If you’re successful, challenge your friends! If you’re not, send a video over anyways to give them a good laugh.

9. Reconnect with old friends and loved ones. 

Give your parents, grandparents, old friends, or others a call. Now you finally have time for that hour-long catch-up session. Touch base first to schedule a time to chat, that way you know you’ve carved out ample time to talk. Plus, it’ll give you something to look forward to!

10. Write down your routine. 

Being stuck inside doesn’t mean we have to transform into full-on couch potatoes. Adding some structure to your day can help you feel more like yourself. Give yourself a bedtime and a wakeup time, and even plan fun activities to do on the weekends (movie nights, extra-special dinner recipes, video chats with friends, etc.).