This is, without a doubt, one of the most stressful times in the world. We’re stuck at home, without answers, without a known future. Everyone needs a distraction right now, so here are some fun things to do while social distancing to relieve stress.

• Painting has been proven to not only reduce stress, but it’s also fun and freeing to reveal a creative outlet. According to an article from “Art Therapy: Journal of the American Art Therapy Association” entitled “Reduction of Cortisol Levels and Participants’ Responses Following art Making,” 45 minutes of creative activity significantly lessens stress in the body, regardless of artistic experience or talent.”
• Find a new show to binge while we have the time! Netflix has been keeping us occupied with shows like “Tiger King,” “All American,” “Elite,” and many many more.
• Find a new podcast. Podcasts have become insanely popular lately. According to Forbes, “One reason podcasts are so popular is that the format is uniquely situated to fit into our busy lives… There are podcasts written to scratch that narrative itch.
• Check out some at-home workouts on YouTube. The silver lining of social distancing is the technology we have to occupy our time. YouTube has a wide selection of short workouts (or long, whatever you want) to keep healthy and active.
• Try out a new recipe. Now is the time to try out that new recipe, according to Fix, “Research finds that people who eat home-cooked meals on a regular basis tend to be happier and healthier and consume less sugar and processed foods, which can result in higher energy levels and better mental health. … Those mental health benefits increase considerably when we eat home-cooked meals with other people
• Take a walk. According to Better Health, “Walking is a great way to improve or maintain your overall health.” Just 30 minutes every day can increase cardiovascular fitness, strengthen bones, reduce excess body fat, and boost muscle power and endurance… Unlike some other forms of exercise, walking is free and doesn’t require any special equipment or training.