Free Online Resources to Enjoy When Staying Home

Thanks to the internet, there are opportunities to explore, exercise, and learn all from the comforts of your home. Here is a new roundup of free online resources to take advantage of when staying home during this pandemic. And, if you missed our last roundup of online resources, you can view those here.

Explore new places by going on a “virtual vacation”

The news coming from public health experts continues to suggest that our “new normal” will look pretty different in the months to come. At this time of year, many of us are normally looking forward to upcoming vacations or starting to plan some time away. Some may find comfort in planning something further out so you have something to look forward to. (We recommend making sure future plans have a flexible cancellation policy).

There are also many ways to explore the world virtually. We recommend you visit The New York Times recent article, “52 Places, Virtually.” You can read more here.

Stay active with these online exercises designed for older adults

For those who are used to exercising with friends or joining classes to stay active, finding ways to keep moving when staying home can feel especially challenging. Here are a couple online options that offer guided exercises you can do in your home:

• Explore the SilverSneakers YouTube channel for a variety of exercise videos designed for older adults. Most of them can be done in your homes without special equipment. Check it out here.
• Find mobility in a way that is soft and gentle but also really supportive and beneficial with this 17 minute chair yoga video.

Enjoy educational and inspiring content from all over the world

Explore.org showcases leaders around the world who have devoted their lives to extraordinary causes. Their website features more than 250 documentary films and 30,000 photographs. The website also offers a collection of live animal webcams, giving you an opportunity to see wild animals in their natural habitats.

Another great resource for learning and inspiration is TED, a nonprofit devoted to spreading ideas. Their mission states, “We believe passionately in the power of ideas to change attitudes, lives, and ultimately, the world.” TED uses their platform to share ideas from people all over the world in short, powerful videos. Start exploring TED today.