As New Orleans authorities are advising social distancing practices, many of us are spending more time at home than we're used to. What can you do to fight boredom? Here are some ideas:
Paint something. Arrange a still life, or use one of your favorite photos for reference, and try your hand at watercolors or acrylics.
Catch up on your favorite TV shows. We're spoiled for choice with good TV these days, and bad TV can be just as fun.
Check out a new album you've been meaning to try. Ask your friends for recommendations if you're at a loss.
Read up on current events. What's happening in the world outside your door?
Research causes to donate to. If you're lucky enough to have any expendable income, think about where you'd like your money to go.
Try a new book. If you can't get to the store, you can still order books online, or download an ebook or audiobook.
Journal. Catch up in your journal, or start a journal if you don't already keep one.
Learn to cook something new. Thumb through old cookbooks, or go online to find new recipes.
Bake. Get creative and make something new, or stick to a staple.
Invent a cocktail. You might find a new favorite, or you might find out that the classics are classic for a reason.
Study a foreign language. Try an app like duolingo to teach yourself a new language, or brush up on one you already know.
Call your parents. They're always happy to hear from you.
Call an old friend. It can be hard to find time to catch up, but your friend might be just as bored as you.
Clean your house. Sweep, mop, wipe everything down, and organize your closets. It'll feel so good when you're done.
Rearrange your furniture. Does your living room need refreshing? Would the dining table look better in another part of the room?
Organize your photographs. Looking at old pictures can be so much fun, and you might find some that you've overlooked that are worth framing.
Garden. This is a good time to start a garden, or tend to one that you already have.
Learn to sew, knit, or quilt. If you discover that you have a talent for it, you could have some thoughtful gifts ready in time for wedding season this summer.
Do some yoga. Whether you're an expert or a beginner, there are videos online that you can follow along with.
Meditate. There are online videos and apps to help with this too.
Research a topic that interests you. Browse your bookshelf, or browse online resources till you find something that you'd like to learn more about.
Give yourself a haircut. It might be time for a fresh look. Just be sure to keep it even.
Take a bubble bath. It could help you relax. Extra points if you add bath salts.
Do a puzzle. Or if you don't have one on hand, opt for sudoku or a crossword.
Dance. Dancing is good exercise, relieves stress, and it's fun.
