The pandemic made people rethink their plans and spend more time indoors. But since most men are not used to being homebound, many are now stressed and depressed. Some are also working from home, which meant less time to focus on their tasks and more family time to spend with the kids. As the pandemic drags on and we are spending more time indoors, it makes one think of what they can do to stay healthy, happy, and fit despite their crazy adventures back home. If this sounds like your current dilemma, why not try picking up the following habits?
Build a Man’s Shed
The Men’s Shed movement originated in Australia in 2007 before it made its way to the UK and Ireland. This movement aims to address the increasing problem of social isolation among older men. In a nutshell, one can say it is a boy scout for adults where men can socialize, learn new things, share interests, collaborate, and have fun.
Since there’s a pandemic going on, you can apply the same concept but by starting a one-man’s shed. This way, you get to build your own sanctuary where you can have your own privacy and get to do the things you are good at or explore new hobbies. Getting to do the things you are interested in doing helps improve your mood, give you something to look forward to, and even improve your overall health and fitness.
For instance, you’re actually good at restoration work, always wanted to try pottery, or want to put your old wood carving skill to work. You can build your own space within your property but still get the privacy you need if you live with your family. You can start by building your own shed big enough to fit whatever project you plan on doing.
You’ll want to make sure your shed is sturdy, durable, and made from high-quality materials. Go for sustainable and eco-friendly materials. When it comes to your roof, find a local plastic sheet manufacturer that can offer eco-friendly roofing sheet options.
If you’re not into sheds, you always have other options. You can turn your garage into your own shed. You can even turn a part of your yard into a greenhouse if that’s what your preferred activity is.
Do Yard Work Every Single Day
Not many men are in love with the idea of yard work, but it is worth giving it a try. Your yard won’t only look pristine with regular cleaning and maintenance. Your health will benefit too, which can also boost your happiness.
Rake leaves, mow the grass, mulch, weed, and prune plants. These may seem like they are all easy tasks. But in reality, these can make up our complete exercise routine as these can burn as much as calories as you would in a regular workout.
Doing yard work allows you to bask in the sunlight and get that much-needed Vitamin D. Sunlight and being around nature helps improve your mood, lower depression, strengthen your immune system, and allows you to decompress. Yard work can even help boost brain health since it involves problem-solving and critical thinking.
Cook at Least One Meal Each Day
If it’s been a while since you last prepared and cooked a decent meal, then you really should start cooking more. Know that cooking is not just a relaxing hobby. The mere fact that you’re planning the meal, preparing the ingredients, cooking the dish, and cleaning up afterward is a great calorie burner.
Cooking makes you more attractive, which is a plus if you have a wife or partner living with you. You get to show your love and care by patiently cooking their favorite meals or even learning to cook for them. You can choose to help your spouse cook meals or whip up that yummy recipe you found on the internet.
Home-cooked meals are also healthier, tastier, and can help you save some cash. You get to choose the ingredients, control the food items you’re feeding yourself, and even shed some weight. It is also an act of self-love since you’re taking the time and making an effort to feed yourself something you actually made from scratch.
Cooking at least once a day gives you that sense of accomplishment. This is since cooking demands your patience, understanding, a bit of planning, and inspiration. Family and friends would surely be impressed to learn you managed to step foot inside the kitchen actually cook a decent meal.
The pandemic should not be an excuse for everyone to live a sedentary and unhappy lifestyle. Know that even with the shelter-in-place orders, you can still engage in activities around the house that can boost your health and happiness. With a bit of creativity and willingness to do more, you can start picking up habits that can benefit your physical and mental health.
