Well…April 2020 is different than any I’ve experienced before. And hence, this monthly round-up is a bit different as well.
For starters, I never thought I’d use the words pandemic and monthly round-up together in one sentence.
But here we are… It’s April 2020, and we are in the middle of a full-fledged, coronavirus pandemic that is impacting the entire world.
It is so crazy, and yet, we’ve somehow managed to settle into a new normal, which means spending much more time at home than many of us are used to.
So how are you coping? And how will you design your life in the near (or much longer than near) future to make the best of this situation?
Obviously, that’s a very different answer for each of us, depending on our situation.
Hopefully, the worst of the pain you’re feeling from the coronavirus pandemic is that you’re stuck at home, bored, anxious, and a bit stir-crazy.
Whatever your scenario is, with this month’s round-up, I want to share tips, products, podcasts and more that have been helping me feel better and I think might help you feel better too. I’ve broken things down by category so you can skip to whichever section is most appealing to you.
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April 2020 – The Coronavirus Pandemic Monthly Round-Up
Fitness Products and Tips to Keep You Motivated
We might need to stay home, but we can still move our bodies. My goal right now is to do something active 30 minutes per day.
If you’re new to working out at home, you’ll want to invest in a few key pieces of fitness equipment. Don’t worry, you don’t need much, and this equipment doesn’t cost a lot.
Start with a yoga mat. It’s versatile and can be used for so much more than yoga.
Next, I recommend a few sets of free weights.
If you have limited space, these resistance bands are a great option too.
And don’t forget a solid pair of sneakers. These Asics sneakers are my go-to because they work for running, lifting, and basic cardio.
There are a lot of great, free workouts online right now. If you’re on Instagram, I highly recommend tuning-in for @rrayme and her boyfriend Nate’s live IG workouts every day at 12p EST. On Facebook, my friend, Shawn Visco of Viscofit, is also offering daily free workouts.
Peloton is now offering 90 days of free online content for those who haven’t signed up for their app in the past. They have a ton of classes you can do including yoga, cardio, strength training, and stretching. And no, you don’t need their bike or tread to sign up for these classes.
What to Cook During the Coronavirus Pandemic
We are all doing more cooking now. I have been experimenting with some quick and easy recipes. Here are some of my favorites:
30-minute Coconut Braised Chicken with Sweet Potatoes and Rice from Half Baked Harvest
Alison Roman’s Caramelized Shallot Pasta
Curried Rice with Shrimp from Real Simple
Ali Maffucci’s Vegetarian Zucchini and Quinoa Lasagna from Inspiralized.
Some of my favorite kitchen tools that are on repeat use right now include GreenPan’s ceramic non-stick frypan for toxic-free cooking, (Offering Free shipping on orders over $49.99!) the Nutribullet (for morning smoothies, and for blending soups), and our Nespresso machine. We are really enjoying our afternoon lattes!
And what comes after our afternoon lattes? An evening cocktail. I know I’m not alone in this new habit. In March, alcohol sales in the United States went up 22% from the year before.
While I’m not advocating drinking copious amounts of alcohol every day, I do think a glass of wine in the evenings with dinner is fine. For me, it has become a nice ritual, (something I think we need more of these days), plus it’s helped reduce my daily anxiety.
If your liquor stores in your neighborhood are delivering, order from them to support local businesses. Otherwise, you can try an option like wine.com. Right now they are offering $20 off your New Customer order with code NEW2020.
April 2020 Is All About Nesting
As someone who is normally an avid traveler, I am enjoying this time that is allowing me to nest and feel cozy at home.
I’ve definitely indulged in buying some home décor recently including these floating shelves, this marble tray, and pillows! (What better way to nest right?!)
I also see a lot of loungewear in our future…and I’m here for it!
I wear this sweatshirt now at least three times a week, and these pants are the softest ever.
Now is a great time to catch up on sleep. What better way to do that than with crisp white sheets?
My go-to for sheets is Brooklinen. I started using their sheets about a year ago and I’m completely hooked. We have two sets for our king size bed. Honestly, I would buy more, but how many pairs of sheets do you really need? LOL
Oh, and I just got this throw and pretty much wrap myself up in it all day long. (This sums up my life right now!)
Spring Fashion – For Some Levity – Because, April 2020, We Need It!
Do we really need to buy more clothing right now when we’re not even leaving the house?
No.
But can a new dress or pair of shoes cheer you up?
You bet!
On that note, I’m not advocating you buy a ton of new things for spring, but if there’s something that will bring you joy and make you feel happy every time you put it on, even if you’re just wearing it at home for yourself, then buy it.
I’ve always loved Superga sneakers. Since I’m feeling a bit nostalgic right now and want to be reminded of happy memories from the past, I’m investing in a new pair of their classic white sneakers.
I also love maxi dresses and this bright-colored dress just shouts spring to me.
Self Care During the Coronavirus Pandemic for Your Body, Mind, and Soul
With all of this time at home, I’m finally plowing through all of the beauty products I’ve accumulated. I started using this Laneige face cream from Korea and I’m hooked. It’s super moisturizing and feels luxurious without the high price point.
Normally, I’m an avid reader, but right now I’m having trouble focusing and haven’t made it through a single book since this lockdown began. While this isn’t something I’m proud of (normally I read about 30 books per year), I’ve accepted that other things are helping me right now.
Instead of reading, I’m listening to podcasts. I highly recommend The Daily from the New York Times which gives an in-depth look at a single news story in each episode.
For a bit of inspiration, try Brene Brown’s Unlocking Us. I always feel better after I listen to an episode. And if you’re the spiritual type, I recommend listening to Kathrin Zenkina’s Manifestation Babe podcast.
Of course, I’ve also indulged in a bit of TV time too. (Who hasn’t during this lockdown?!)
My favorites of the moment on Netflix include Money Heist and Unorthodox. Also, I’m so excited that Killing Eve is back on AMC. And Billions is coming back to Showtime in May.
I think I’m sorted for a bit. What are you watching these days?
Looking to calm your anxiety? I recommend taking on a project. Try a jigsaw puzzle. Make a candle. Pick up needlepoint or adult coloring.
These hobbies might sound silly, but the act of focusing on tasks like this allows our brain to calm down and even get into a state of flow, where little distracts us. Considering that the Coronavirus is one of the biggest distractions and disruptions we’ve ever experienced, I’m all for any break we can get.
Related: Looking for more tips on navigating this pandemic? Check out these posts:
Stuck at Home? Things to Do During the Coronavirus Outbreak
Some Thoughts on Navigating the Coronavirus Outbreak
What Are Your At-Home Plans For April 2020?
That’s all for the monthly round-up!
Whatever your at-home plans are this month, I hope this post has given you some inspiration and ideas about how to stay occupied and stay sane.
This isn’t easy for any of us.
But remember, we’re all in this together, and we’ll get through this together.
Stay healthy, and stay safe!
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