It’s been more than a month since the Vanguard team shifted its operations from Foggy Bottom to various areas in the District, Virginia and Maryland (aka, our homes). Like everyone else, at times we have found ourselves coming up a little short on ways to pass the non-work hours in a creative way, as one day blends into the next. We also don’t always take the mental health breaks we know we need from the all the concerning news out there.

But just like an effective strategic communications plan, we found somewhat early on we needed to make a “mid-course correction.” Here are a few activities Vanguardians have been enjoying that might inspire you to find a new side of yourself or simply keep you away from your phone for a little while.

1. A few us at the office follow the world’s royal families very closely — especially the England royals — so we loved this Royal Reading List. It contains fiction and nonfiction books about the iconic family.
2. Netflix has likely been your go-to for entertainment — but don’t you miss watching a good movie with friends or family? We sure did! This Netflix Chrome extension lets you do just that! You can chat with other people to comment on the movie and even pause the movie while everyone refills their popcorn so you don’t miss a thing.
3. We’ve heard how important it is to keep moving. CorePower yoga has released many videos to keep up your practice, but there are various levels of expertise. So even if you’re just starting out, you can get into the yogi mindset! This is a great solution for those who don’t have a backyard.
4. If you want exercises that are more intense than yoga, Orangetheory Fitness releases daily workouts now that incorporate objects you can find around your house. You also can watch the workouts from previous days and put together your own routine!
5. How’s cooking going? One thing that has lifted our spirits is watching chef Massimo Bottura in Modena, Italy. He has been posting videos on Instagram (@massimobottura) of what he cooks for his family. It warms the soul to see his sweet and funny disposition as he prepares meals with passion.
6. Parlez vous … ? The Duolingo app has comprehensive and easy-to-follow lessons for many languages out there. You can stick with one and become fluent or learn how to say a specific phrase such as “Where are the best restaurants in town?” in as many languages as you like!

Now that we know that we are in this for the long haul, it has been refreshing to find ways to use our new-found time at home. Have other ideas to make the most of staying at home? Send them our way!