| Hey folks, Happy Sunday. How's everyone? Much of the country is under a "shelter in place" order due to the coronavirus. We're not to leave unless it's to get groceries, gas, medicine, or other essentials. So that's what I've been doing—staying at home. But you can't just sit around and browse the Internet mindlessly. Well, you can, but I don't recommend it. (The Internet certainly offers helpful tools for those stuck inside with nothing to do. The trick is to actually take advantage of them, rather than idly scrolling through social media.) Okay, so what are some ideas for keeping busy, staying engaged? Read: Read something from that stack of books you've been collecting and adding to for the last year. Just hunker down and get deep into it. Play: I'm a longtime fan of the NY Times crossword. Do it every day as part of my morning routine. But few people get the physical paper anymore. There's a good NY Times crossword app for both Apple and Android. Start a garden: Gardening is functional and fun. It removes stress, consumes attention, and produces nutrients. Try a potato tower. Plant some leafy greens out back. Start an herb garden on your windowsill if you don't have the room. Microworkouts: You've probably read the post on microworkouts, or workout snacks. Now's your chance to really try it out. Do little bouts of training throughout the day. Pushups while you wait for the water to boil. Squats while you brush your teeth. Kettlebell swings and pull-ups when you take out the trash. You get the idea. Cook: Sure, you could order takeout (and in some cases you should; see below), but you could also use this time to master your cooking. Do a long elaborate recipe—something French with multiple steps. Go grill outside. Dig a pit and light a fire and do a real campfire dish. Support your favorite local businesses: Small businesses are going to hurt. They could use every dollar you can spare. If you have the means, consider helping them out with some business even if you don't "need" it. Order takeout, buy gift cards, pay ahead of time for services like house cleaning or car detailing or what have you. Give big tips. What are you guys doing while on lockdown? Tell me about it in the comment section of Friday's Weekly Link Love. Take care, and be well. | 