In the work from home world, people suddenly find themselves with lots of free time and nothing to do. Cabin fever is rampant, and what would normally be a mild problem has the potential to endanger people’s lives and livelihoods. If you’re feeling a little stir-crazy and desperate to break quarantine, here are a few things you can do to keep yourself occupied during a lockdown.

Crafting

A lot of people have taken up new hobbies and started crafting. It’s a great way to keep your hands and your mind occupied, and at the end of it you have something concrete that you can point to and say “I made that!” Whatever your interests are, there’s a craft for you, and there is certainly an online craft store that can help supply you with everything you need.

Education

If you’re craving mental stimulation more than anything, take an online class or listen to some free lectures. Education is an easy answer to feeling bored; it can even enhance your resume for the future. There are online courses for every interest, whether you’re going to finally pursue that secret passion for history, or pick up a new language, or even take a class in some practical skill, like horticulture or cooking. 

Cooking

With so many restaurants closed or only offering delivery, more people than ever are cooking for themselves. You finally have the time not just for cooking but also for canning, baking, and even brewing. If you’re stuck at home, it makes sense to cook at home. Plus, you can supplement your own pantry and reduce trips to the grocery store. 

Gardening

Another way to reduce trips to the grocery store is by taking up gardening. If you have a yard of some kind, then this is a great excuse to get some fresh air and sunshine, but even if you are stuck inside you can still grow all kinds of indoor plants, both purely decorative ones and also more practical ones like herbs and even vegetables to supplement your grocery runs. 

For your own sake, and for the sake of the people and communities you love, it’s important to stay home as much as you can. It’s also important to stay sane, and for that, you must have some way to stay entertained. Hobbies and other activities you can do to keep yourself busy will help protect your mental and physical health in these trying times.