Vessel’s Indoor Guide: Tips, Activities, and Things to Do at Home

The world has experienced a lot of changes over the past few months, and we’ve had to adapt to unprecedented circumstances amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Like the rest of the world, the Vessel team has been doing their part to #FlattenTheCurve by staying home. We’ve utilized this time to discover healthy ways to maintain our mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Check out our list of indoor activities:

1. HAVE A ROUTINE  

In a time where there is a lot of uncertainty, it’s important to practice a routine that gives us a sense of normalcy. Without having to commute to work, take the kids to school, or even change out of pajamas, many of us are missing the “warm up” period that sets us up for the rest of the day.  Vessel’s CEO, Ron Shaw, always begins his mornings with a homemade cup of coffee. This little ritual puts him into a productive and positive mindset before diving into emails or helping around the house. 

2. FIND A NEW HOBBY, OR REDISCOVER OLD ONES

There’s no doubt that many of us have more free time on our hands. This is the perfect opportunity to discover a new hobby or pick up an old one. From gardening to learning how to juggle, many Vessel team members are channeling their energy into creative and stimulating activities. Digital marketing specialist, Allen C., has been taking still photos of areas in his apartment, and enhancing them on his smartphone. This is a cool way to test your photography and editing skills. Some other fun and simple pastimes are: reading books, solving puzzles, or listening to music. These activities release endorphins, which are hormones that improve overall mood and happiness. 

3. ENJOY SOME SUNSHINE

Although we highly encourage staying indoors during this time, this doesn't mean you can't enjoy some sunshine and fresh air. Hanging out in your backyard or front yard does wonders for your mental and emotional health! Additionally, the Vitamin D from sunlight can improve your physical health. This crucial vitamin improves the body's ability to absorb Calcium, a key mineral, that's needed for healthy bones. Vitamin D also supports a flourishing brain, heart, and immune system. Our creative director, Jason West, has been enjoying some quality family time while riding bikes on nearby, neighborhood trails. 

4. GO FOR A NATURE WALK 

Getting out and going for a walk, can be refreshing and invigorating. Not only is this a good way to burn calories, but walking 30 minutes a day can lower blood pressure, improve digestion, strengthen joints, and boost your immune system. Vessel's marketing manager, Briana F., loves to take her dogs for daily walks. She's mindful to keep a 6-foot distance from her and fellow pedestrians, and always covers her nose and mouth with PPE. As soon as she gets home, she sanitizes her puppies’ leashes and washes her hands with soap. Other members of the Vessel team go on family nature walks. They have their kiddos identify different flowers and plants as they stroll through the neighborhood or walk along nearby hiking trails. 

5. PLAN AN INDOOR DATE NIGHT

Classic indoor date ideas like cooking together or watching a movie, are excellent go-to’s. But why not mix it up a bit? You can host your own wine-tasting with a homemade charcuterie board, or set up a putt-putt course for a friendly competition. Our green-grass manager, Jenny K., has turned her house into a foam dart arena! With targets posted in various rooms, she can emulate the feel of laser tag without ever leaving her house. 

6. WORK OUT

Gyms may be closed at the moment, but that shouldn’t deter you from staying motivated. From calisthenics to yoga, there are so many ways to exercise without machinery or weights. Our custom designer, Richard G., has found plenty of easy-to-follow workout routines on YouTube. With endless options at your fingertips, you’ll never be bored of workouts at home. This is also a perfect opportunity to practice basic exercises like push-ups or squats, and improve your form and technique. 

7. BAKE OR COOK SOMETHING NEW

Whether it’s a recipe you’ve been tempted to try, or a culinary skill you wish to master, now is the perfect time! Vessel accountant, Joel C., is getting crafty by cooking meals from existing ingredients in his household. Like the food stars on Chopped, he’s putting his cooking knowledge to the test and making new dishes from unlikely ingredient combinations. Since health experts recommend that we only grocery shop once every 2 weeks, it can be a fun challenge to utilize what we have in our kitchens. There are also simple recipes that don’t require many ingredients. Currently, there’s a craze for: whipped coffee, 3-ingredient crème brûlée, and 3-ingredient teriyaki chicken. 

8. PARTICIPATE IN A SERVICE PROJECT 

During this dire time, it’s important to lean on one another for support and a sense of community. There are plenty of online and virtual volunteer opportunities that you can contribute to while staying at home. From sewing cloth face masks to collecting non-perishables  for local food banks, there are ways to alleviate some of the challenges during this time. 

9. LEARN WITH YOUR KIDS

Schools are out for the meantime, so parents have turned their living rooms into temporary classrooms. Not only is this a great way to have quality time with your student, but it’s an opportunity to learn something new with them. Vessel team member, Rosa F., is keeping her kids’ minds fresh with outschool.org. This online learning tool is currently offering courses for $1 to ensure access to affordable education. 

10. CONNECT THROUGH TECHNOLOGY  

With present-day technology, it’s easy to stay connected with the world, while staying indoors. Practice social distancing by video conferencing, texting, and interacting through social media. 

Our social relationships play a huge role in alleviating stress and promoting a positive mood. Not only does daily social interaction give a sense of emotional support, but according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, it contributes to our sense of personal control that allows us to lead happy lives in the way we choose.

We hope that these suggestions are helpful for you and your family throughout self-quarantine, and perhaps inspired some fun indoor activities.

For even more activities, check out: https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/health-wellness/2020/03/16/coronavirus-quarantine-100-things-do-while-trapped-inside/5054632002/

For more information about ways to volunteer, check out this article.