In the last year, many of us have been staying at home far more than we are accustomed to – and when staying at home, it is easy to fall into a rut of doing very little, which can take a toll on both physical and mental health. If you need to stay at home, instead use it as a chance to do something different to boost both body and mind.
Keep fit
Staying at home does not mean that you can’t be active. As well as the physicalbenefits of toning muscles, boosting cardiovascular health and shedding the pounds, exercise will also lift your mood. The type of physical exercise you do is likely to depend on the space and money you have available as well as your inclination. If you have a large enough garden, ball games with the family are a great way to stay active, or you could invest in some home gym equipment if you have space inside.However, even without lots of space and money, you can still keep fit. The internet is full of free workout videos; some games consoles have active games; or you can simply put on some music and have a dance.
Learn something new
Being at home is a great opportunity to learn a new skill that will challenge your mind. Using books, online instruction, apps and videos, this is the chance to learn anything from a new language to a musical instrument. You could even take the chance to give your career prospects a boost, with many universities now offering their courses online. If you have always dreamt of a career in nursing, Wilkes University offers accelerated nursing programs in NJ that include study from home as well as clinical placements to help meet the demand for skilled nurses.
DIY
We all have home and garden projects that we’re too busy to do. However, if you are at home, this is the time to get around to that task you’ve been putting off. Many of these tasks will require some physical exertion, allowing them to double up as exercise, but you will also gain the mental boost of improving your living space.Once completed, that freshly painted room or the beauty of a new flowerbed will give you a huge sense of achievement.
Stay in touch
Lack of company can wreak havoc on your mental health, so stay in touch with friends and family. Today, through social media and video calling, it has never been easier to stay in touch – though there is also nothing wrong with the old-fashioned method of putting pen to paper and enjoying the anticipation of what the mailman will bring.
Everyday treats
Even your everyday routine can be transformed to make it feel more special. Candles and scented oils can make a bath into a spa, while snacks, drinks and low lights might turn watching TV into a home theatre experience. Giving yourself regular treats to look forward to can help beat the monotony of staying at home.
Staying at home does not need to mean inactivity and boredom, but can instead inspire ways to challenge your body and mind.