1. Mindfulness matters
Yale experts say learning ways to be right here right now help patients cope with illness and the anxiety related to it. Here are some simple activities to get you started, including mindful hand hygiene.
2. Hip to be Square
With everything going on these days, it's difficult to keep up with important news. The multi-award-winning Chicago Public Square is one of the best daily capsules you can find. While it's Chicago-based, it's a fantastic read no matter where you are located. Author Charlie Meyerson finds must-know national news and includes links to items you may otherwise have missed. Subscribe for free. Get it sent directly to your email every weekday morning.
3. How do you say...?
Learning a new language requires a huge investment of time (and we all seem to have a lot of that these days). But it doesn't have to wreck your wallet. PC Magazine picked the best free apps for learning a language, including Duolingo.
4. Keeping up with care coverage
Until Medicare for All becomes reality, it's important to have access to healthcare coverage. If you or a loved one has lost your job or are experiencing a lapse of employment, get info on how COBRA Continuation Coverage, Medicaid, Medicare, or other healthcare programs may be an option.
5. Lift spirits with a letter
A paper published by Northern Illinois University's Center for the Interdisciplinary Study of Language and Literacy states the act of writing has many positive benefits, including “improve[d] memory function, decreased symptomatology, and greater feelings of happiness." Join "Letters Against Isolation," "Shut In Social Club," or "Love for Our Elders" to bring joy to a senior citizen by becoming a penpal and dropping a special handwritten note.
6. Vacation all you ever wanted?
During the COVID outbreak, you must have wondered (as The Go-Go's did): "how do you get away?" January 26 is National Plan for a Vacation Day. Even if it's not yet safe to get outta town, you can start thinking. This Book with Confidence Guide provides tips and resources about how to minimize the risk whenever you do travel.
7. Puzzles for the pandemic
January 29 is National Puzzle Day. Celebrate by putting your mind to work on a free crossword from The Washington Post or Los Angeles Times. It will cost you a subscription to access the famed New York Times crossword, but editor (and Indiana University graduate*) Will Shortz, explains how each cryptic challenge is created.
