For much of the nation, a stay at home order is in place. The kids are home from school and many people are working from home. With all that time at home, many of us wonder what is the best way to spend our time. Sooner or later, we all run out of binge-worthy shows to watch on Netflix. This week we have a few suggestions (five to be exact) on how to make the most of your time at home.

Set exercise goals

In the past, we’ve all used the excuse that we just don’t have the time to exercise. However, for many of us working from home is a great time to get our bodies moving. Walking is a great way to stay active and practice social distancing. It is also free and just about anyone can do it. Try setting a realistic goal like walking thirty minutes a day. Studies have shown not only is it great for your physical health, but also your mental health. Don’t forget things like Yoga, push-ups, squats, flutter kicks, and a whole slew of exercises that can be done at home and for free, no equipment required.

Simplify your life

We hear it all the time from experts and friends. That age-old advice to simplify things. Maybe you had a hectic schedule with the kids and work and now is a good time to reevaluate what is important before school, sports, and work start back up again. For some people they have that giant closest or attic loaded with “stuff.” Perhaps now is a great time to go through and take inventory of what you need to keep, what might be useful in the future, and what might be donated to a good cause. No matter what part of your life you want to simplify, there is no time like the present to do just that.

Reconnect with friends and family

Do you remember all those times you talked about calling an old friend or relative? Well, now is the perfect time to make that promise a reality. With so many people working from home or furloughed it is an ideal time to spend a few minutes catching up with those folks. We could all use a little emotional boost or support and sometimes hearing from an old friend is just the remedy we need. You can even video chat with Skype and Facetime!

Keep a journal

No matter how you look at it these are unprecedented times in our history. Keeping a journal is a great way to take a few moments each day to reflect on what is happening in these unusual times. Whether you are looking for an outlet for your thoughts or maybe just want to have something to look back on or share with your children, either way a journal can be useful and interesting. Take a moment each day to write about something positive (hint that phone call to an old friend). A simple journal entry each day of something positive is a great way to remind yourself of all the things we all should be grateful for.

Learn something new

With all this time on your hands, now is the perfect time to add a new skill or to learn something new. Maybe you always wanted to learn to be a better writer or learn how to use Excel worksheets. What better time than now to learn?

Did you know many celebrities and online courses like Master Class are offering steep discounts or doing free tutorials on YouTube?