It’s not often the whole world shuts down and we have so much free time, so let’s not waste the opportunity we’ve been given. This is a time to do all the things our schedule doesn’t normally allow for. In our fast-paced culture, we rarely have so much downtime to rest and get caught up. Here are a few ideas on how to use this time to benefit our lives. 

DIY Projects:

DIY projects are a great way to gain new skills and knowledge and a healthy way to keep both your mind and body engaged. These projects allow for creative freedom and self-exploration. DIY Projects are not only cost-efficient but effective as well. They can be a wonderful way to discover new talents and natural abilities. The best part about DIY Projects is the range. The internet is full of ideas from a simple craft to a home-renovation. 

Organize:

With the extra time on our hands these days, do something productive. Most of us are getting ready to go off to college and that means deciding what to take with us. A great way to prepare for this massive change is to organize. Organizing has many positive effects, including reduced stress levels, easy access to items used every day, saved time knowing where everything is, and a clear mind and room. Organizing is a great skill to learn now and get good at., as it will save us more time later. 

Read:

Reading edifies the mind and relaxes the body. It helps improve our memory and empathy, and it helps sharpen the mind and expands vocabulary. Reading is a great way to take a break from constant internet access and the social world. Technology is wonderful, but sometimes our minds and our eyes need a break to see the world from another perspective. Books give the opportunity to travel and spark the imagination. So pick up the book you’ve never had time to read until now and watch as it transforms your understanding of the world. 

Journal:

Today we live in a world that is constantly changing. Writing provides a way to express our feelings and recount memories we wish to never forget. It helps us to remember the details that time oscures. Journaling can reduce anxiety and clear the mind. It’s an outlet to rant, to create, and to discover more of who you are. Unlike our minds, a journal is a tangible source of information we may forget over time. One day you can look back and read of the times you had and how you felt in moments. 

Work out:

Working out is one of the healthiest activities you can do for yourself. It allows your body to release endorphins that generate positive feelings. While it is a great way to stay in shape, it can also be fun and exciting. Anything from walks to yoga to tennis to extreme sports can benefit the body and the mind. Working out can improve your memory, sleep, skin, and overall health. Starting now will help you in the future and making a habit of it. There are numerous ways to work out and have fun with it, even from home.