For some, staying indoors and working remotely is a way of life. For those who have cooked in a busy kitchen for most of their lives, this transition could take a lot of getting used to. If social distancing is causing you to go stir crazy, there are a few things you can do to keep yourself sane and productive. We’ve made a list of things to do while staying at home for the next couple weeks:

STAY IN A PROFESSIONAL MINDSET

-Even though you may be stuck at home, and not actually working, it’s important to keep core aspects of your routine.

-Try to wake up the same time you normally do for work, and “get ready” by showering, changing out of your sweats, and making a cup of coffee.

-Give yourself work to do- hone in on your knife skills, master your béarnaise sauce, or prep your family’s “meez” for the next few days.

-Fight the urge to multi-task. Keep focused on your work and try not to do too many house chores that may distract you.

-Try to create a space at home that feels like a work environment. Designate a space in your home that you can utilize and feel productive working in. You can work on those recipes you haven’t had time for before.

EAT WELL

-You cook, right? Well, use this time to cook some bomb ass meals for your family, try new inventive recipes with those cans you have, and who knows? You might even draw inspiration for your restaurant’s new special when life resumes to a norm.

-Hydrate! ‘Nuff said.

-When shopping for food, try to buy things that will make you feel your best. You don’t want to feel bogged down when you will be spending most of your time indoors.

-Expand your palate, and take advantage of buying the food that people aren’t particular rushing to stockpile-  okra, eggplant, turnips, etc. Get creative.

-Buy things you would actually eat- not just because they happen to be on the shelves.

MOVE

-Use your favorite workout app, do the latest TikTok challenge, or hit up a YouTube channel to keep moving while you’re stuck in your house. And you never know…you could lose a few pounds that have been lingering about.

-It may sound cliché, and maybe kinda lame, but DANCE! Turn the music up like you were back in the kitchen, and have a dance party by yourself or with your family. Release some of that stress by gettin’ jiggy wit’ it.

-Get some fresh air, and take yourself and your dog for a walk. Just remember to keep a safe 6-foot distance from others.

STAY CONNECTED

-Don’t forget to schedule calls and video chats with your loved ones and colleagues. Although we can’t physically be together in this moment, we can still be there for one another in these uncertain times through technology.

-Staying connected also means, not burying your head in your phone or tablet. Limit your time on social media. Be present with those who are in your household.

TAKE BREAKS

-Set a timer for lunch.

-Don’t forget to stretch and walk around every hour.

DO THINGS YOU WOULDN’T NORMALLY HAVE TIME TO DO

-Read 1 of the 20 recipe books that have been sitting on your shelf for years. (You know you’ve got ’em) If you need some inspiration, try The Joy of Cooking, by Irma S. Rombauer, or Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat by Samin Nosrat.

-Make recipes that you’ve had bookmarked for ages.

-Jot down how you’re feeling. Reflect, and be honest. You’ll be able to look back, and truly appreciate what was going on in your life right now, and be thankful for where you’re at later.

-Pick up a new (or old) hobby- draw, exercise, guitar, etc.

-Let loose and enjoy spending time playing with your kids, or game nights with your loved ones.

SET THE MOOD WITH THE RIGHT MUSIC

-Create a peaceful atmosphere to keep you focused while attempting to focus on “work”.

-Take the time to really listen to some of your favorite albums with no distractions.

In the meantime, reassure yourself you will get through this. Remind yourself that this social isolation period is temporary.  It will end, and it is not forever.  Once you get through this difficult period, your relationship with yourself and others can come out stronger.

Do you have any other suggestions of things to do during this time? Leave us a comment below!