Written by Catarina Marchioli, a student in the Dietitian Nutritionist program.
This is a difficult time for everyone, adjusting to online classes and potentially moving back into your childhood home. Here are some ways to make the most out of your days, while keeping your health in mind.
Learn how to cook/try new recipes
This is a great way to spend quality time with your family, and learn a new skill. Experimenting with the food you have available can be a creative outlet, and might cultivate a new hobby.
Support local restaurants
If cooking is not for you, or difficult to do every night, eating out is still possible! Local businesses need help supporting their employees and paying rent. Make a list of your family favorite’s and order to-go.
Get in touch with your artistic side
Having to social distance is a big change for most of us, but this makes for the perfect time to start a new hobby and find new ways to express ourselves. Even coloring with crayons may be an outlet, set no boundaries and see what materials you have on hand and see what you can create.
Discover new music
I am sure a lot of us have out-listened to our usual playlists throughout this time. Try to expand your library and discover new artists and genres. This can also be a great way to connect with others from a far by sharing and creating new playlists and artists.
Move your body!
Social media has been overtaken by at-home workout routines. This is a great resource for anyone who wants to really get their blood flowing and sweat. This however is not necessary, and there are many other ways to stay active during this time. Taking a walk outside through your community, or stretching with daily yoga are great ways to move. We are in a very unique situation that is causing stress in many areas of life. Moving your body should be a release, not an added responsibility. Do what feels right for your body, that may look different than it does for someone else.
It is important to focus on all that we can do right now instead of what we cannot. Reflect on the little things that bring you peace, and discover new ways to create and express yourself. Pitt’s Stress-Free Zone is a great resource for anyone struggling and has weekly virtual activities that can be found on Facebook.