Keeping BusyWith the pandemic causing a second wave of lockdowns at the end of 2020, many individuals are struggling to keep busy (unlike most holiday seasons). Having such limited options when it comes to social gatherings or events, most are turning to technology to fill free time, escape boredom, and stay engaged. In this article, we share some of Home to Stay’s staff favorite ways to keep busy during this not-so-normal holiday season. 

Podcasts

Have you entered the podcast world? If not, you are missing out! 

First things first, what IS a podcast? Podcasts are audio episodes that are focused on a particular topic or theme. Whether it’s business, comedy, politics, health, or culture-oriented – there is something for everyone! With an endless amount of interesting topics discussed by interesting individuals, something is bound to catch your ear. See below for some of our favorites and download the podcast app for your Apple or Android.

  • Armchair Expert with Dax Shapard
  • Making Sense – Sam Harris
  • The Lex Friedman Podcast
  • Duncan Trussell – Family Hour
  • Heart Wisdom – Jack Kornfield

Audiobooks

Looking for a more sensory reading experience? You may want to consider downloading an audiobook. Listening to a book as opposed to reading it on a screen can help to relax our eyes and promote better sleep. Audiobooks are also proven to help negative thinking and can help with time management. Being able to stimulate your brain and read books while doing tasks like driving, cleaning, or exercising is a win-win situation. Take a look at a couple audio books we recommend below and consider downloading the Audible app on Apple or Android to download your first book. 

  • Be Here Now – Ram Dass
  • Reality Is Not What It Seems – Carlo Rovelli

Are you looking for a good hardback to read this holiday season?  Try one of our staff favorites below.

  • The Testament – John Grisham
  • The 5 Second Rule – Mel Robbins
  • The Power of Kindness – Piero Ferrucci
  • The 5 Love Languages of Children – Gary Chapman and Ross Campbell
  • Getting Things Done – David Allen
  • The Godfather – Mario Puzo
  • Anna Karenia – Leo Tolstoy

Apps

Nowadays, people use their phones for all sorts of things – from checking the weather and traffic jams in the morning to streaming your favorite TV shows at night. Let’s face it, smartphone apps have helped to make everyday life a little easier.  Below are a few of our favorites apps that can help you start your day with mindfulness, connect with friends from all over the world, and beat the midday slump. 

  • Instagram: A creative way to share photos, videos, and messages with friends & family. Download for Apple or Android.
  • Google Docs: Bring your documents to life and stay organized with this easy to use app. Download for Apple or Android.
  • Facebook: A social networking app that makes it easy for you to connect and share photos, articles, and videos with family and friends. Download for Apple or Android.
  • FaceApp: One of the best mobile apps for photo & video editing. Download for Apple or Android.
  • 5K Runner: This app will take you from your couch to running 5K, losing weight and getting in great shape. Download for Apple or Android.
  • Down Dog: A studio-like yoga experience in the comfort of your home. Download for Apple or Android.
  • Waking Up with Sam Harris: A guide to understanding the mind to help live a more balanced and fulfilling life. Download for Apple or Android.
  • Spotify: This app gives you access to millions of songs all in one location. Download for Apple or Android.