Dive Into a Good Book

When’s the last time you actually had time to sit down and read? Engrossing yourself in a good novel is one of the best and cheapest ways to mentally transport yourself to a different place and time.If you’re looking for page-turner suggestions, check out Goodreads or browse through your library’s collection online via apps like Libby. You never know what gems you might stumble upon.

Take a Virtual Cooking Class

Food is one of the best ways to forget about work. If you aren’t a natural Rachael Ray in the kitchen, you still can learn to prepare a five-star meal with a little help.Whether you want to dish up homemade pasta or go straight for the dessert tray, there are countless virtual cooking classes waiting to turn you into the next “Top Chef.” Apps like MasterClass, for instance, can help you learn how to cook just like Gordon Ramsay. With instruction from the celebrity chef himself, of course.

Splurge On Delivery

Don’t like to cook? You still can treat yourself by sampling a new dish out or by hitting the hottest new restaurant — even if it’s from the comfort of your own home. Though restaurants may be closed for dining due to COVID-19, many eateries are adding their offering to delivery apps. And some chefs are even creating their own delivery pop-ups. That gives you an opportunity to try things you never have before!Whether you’re getting adventurous or returning to an old staple you know hits the spot, dining “out” is a great way to shake up your daily routine. And you’ll be helping local restaurants stay open!

Get Outside

It’s easy to feel cooped up during winter, so don’t completely give in to hibernating. Depending on where you live, snowshoeing, ice skating and cross-country skiing are great ways to get your blood pumping. A long walk can be invigorating, too. Just make sure you’re staying six feet away from people who don’t live in your household.

Get in a Workout Routine

After the holidays and resolutions, it’s time to make yourself a priority. Start the new year off right with a new routine. And with so many classes going virtual, you can finally try that kickboxing or yoga class that interests you without ever leaving your living room.

Redecorate

You don’t have to wait for spring cleaning to make your home feel new again. Sometimes it’s as easy as rearranging the furniture or picking out some new decor pieces to give your space a facelift. Mix and match patterns and prints to bring visual interest to different areas and hit up Pinterest for inspiration.

Plan Future Travel

Relaxing at home is great, but there’s nothing like exploring a new town or city. Many think of winter as the offseason, but many destinations are just hitting their stride, turning into magical winter wonderlands in the colder months.Spend some time researching future getaways, and you just might find that traveling in winter is almost as affordable as staying home.