Hey there, fellow homebody! It’s safe to say that these days have been unlike any other we’ve experienced. With the Coronavirus outbreak, the world as we knew it changed drastically. Non-essential places have closed their doors, and for many of us, working from home has become the new norm. It’s a mixed bag of emotions – some are enjoying the extra time indoors, while others are feeling the stir-crazy effects of isolation. No matter which category you fall into, we all need a little help to stave off boredom.
So, whether you’re an introvert savoring this time, a pet owner enjoying the company of your furry friends, or someone struggling with anxiety due to the pandemic, I’ve got you covered. Let’s explore 15 affordable and enjoyable activities to keep the boredom at bay while staying indoors.
1. Watch Animal Cams
In these challenging times, sometimes we all need a dose of cuteness and positivity. Turn on an animal cam and let your worries melt away. From brown bears in Alaska to sea otters being adorably entertaining, these cams offer a delightful escape to the animal kingdom. It’s the perfect way to be present in the moment and forget about the chaos outside.
2. Stream Broadway Musicals
Missing the thrill of live performances? Broadway has come to your rescue! You can now stream some of your favorite musicals and plays from the comfort of your home. From the enchanting “Cats” to the high-energy “Kinky Boots” and the colorful “Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat,” there’s something for everyone. Plus, they’re offering free trials, so you can enjoy the magic without breaking the bank.
3. Watch Penguins on a Field Trip
Prepare to have your heart warmed as you watch penguins take an adventure through Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium, which is currently closed to the public. Witness their excitement as they explore on a field trip to their own aquarium. It’s a delightful reminder that even in tough times, there’s room for joy and curiosity.
4. Attend the Paris Opera from Your Home
Experience the grandeur of the Paris Opera without leaving your living room. They’re streaming beautiful ballets and operas for free, featuring captivating performances like “Don Pasquale” and the enlightening documentary “L’Opéra” by Jean-Stéphane Bron. It’s a cultural escape right at your fingertips.
5. Make Money Watching Videos
If you’re looking for an easy way to earn extra cash while at home, Swagbucks has your back. Just signing up gets you $5! You can watch videos, participate in surveys, and redeem points for cash and gift cards. Plus, you can even run the videos in the background while you do other things, making it a convenient money-making opportunity.
6. Watch Dolphins in the Venice Canal
The quarantine in Italy has led to a remarkable change in the Venice Canal. The water has become crystal clear, and animals are returning to their natural habitat. You can now watch dolphins swimming in a canal that was once grungy. It’s a symbol of hope in these challenging times and a reminder of the resilience of nature.
7. Watch Seeds Grow into Plants
Looking for a soothing and hopeful activity? How about watching seeds grow into plants? While it might not be in real-time (unless you’re incredibly patient), time-lapse videos of seeds sprouting can be incredibly calming. It’s a reminder that growth and renewal are constants, even in the face of uncertainty.
8. Visit with Australian Animals
The Melbourne Zoo is bringing its furry residents to your screen. You can now take a virtual tour and enjoy live streams of baby snow leopards, majestic giraffes, and awe-inspiring lions. It’s a unique way to experience the wonders of wildlife from the comfort of your home.
9. Take a Virtual Tour of The Palace of Versailles
Travel enthusiasts, rejoice! The Palace of Versailles has opened its doors virtually, sharing 22,000 works of art, including the stunning Hall of Mirrors, the exquisite Grand Trianon, and the enchanting Fountains. You can get cultured and explore these iconic landmarks right from your couch.
10. Make Extra Money Taking Surveys
Since social distancing is likely to continue for some time, why not make a few extra bucks while you’re at it? Survey sites like Swagbucks offer a legit way to earn money from home. It’s an excellent opportunity to bolster your finances and beat the boredom simultaneously.
11. Cute Cat Videos for When You Are Bored
Who needs an excuse to watch cute cat videos? They’re an instant mood lifter! Whether it’s an adorable pair of feline buddies or a human with an uncanny attention to detail, these videos are strangely mesmerizing. Take a break from the chaos and indulge in some feline charm.
12. Take Care of Your Mental Health
With the pandemic causing anxiety for many, it’s crucial to prioritize your mental well-being. Here are five strategies to help you manage worries during these uncertain times:
13. Yoga
Yoga is a fantastic way to find peace and stability in tumultuous times. The popular YouTube channel “Yoga with Adriene” offers a wide range of yoga practices designed to support you during uncertainty. Roll out your mat and let the soothing flow of yoga ease your mind.
14. Triangle Breathing
Looking for a quick relaxation technique? Triangle breathing is a proven method for reducing stress and anxiety. Follow along with this video as the shape unfolds when you breathe in and contracts when you breathe out. It’s a simple yet effective way to find calm amidst the chaos.
15. Use Mindfulness
Meditation teacher Tara Brach offers valuable tips for calming your coronavirus-related anxiety. Her guidance on using mindfulness during a pandemic is a must-read for those seeking inner peace during these challenging times.
In conclusion,
while the world may be going through a difficult period, there are countless ways to stay entertained, inspired, and connected from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re watching adorable animals, immersing yourself in art and culture, or focusing on your mental well-being, there’s a wealth of opportunities to explore. So, let’s make the most of this unique time, and remember that we’re all in this together. Stay safe, stay entertained, and stay hopeful!
