Right now is a pretty weird time. Some people are being hit extremely hard, while for others, not much has changed. The amount of uncertainty right now is off the charts, and for most us, that’s really difficult to deal with.
Whatever experience you’re having right now – terrible or fantastic – it’s valid.
To my surprise, during this time I’ve developed a rhythm to my days that I’d actually like to keep. That’s how productive, calming, and fulfilling these weeks have been. I’m grateful for the peaceful experience I’ve been having, which I know is likely not the norm, and I feel compelled to share the things that have helped me to create this headspace.
That’s precisely why I’ve put together this list of resources for you – these tools are a big part of the reason why quarantine has been, well, magical.
Enjoy, and stay safe.
cozy playlists // fun playlists // reflection // growth // health // joy
The cover photo says it all – this playlist will make you feel like you’re floating in tropical waters, drink in hand.
Turn it on when you’re wanting a more energetic work session, or even to start your day off with some electronic positivity.
Actually – click play right now while you read the rest of the article!
The OG coffee house work playlist.
Instrumental beats will keep you going throughout the day as you write, code, edit, or whatever it is that you do.
Hit play when you’ve brewed your favorite hot drink and are ready to jump into work.
Hang on, are we working, or are we having a candlelit 3-course meal?
It’s up to you how you use this gem of a playlist, but it’s particularly good on a gray, rainy day.
I’ve personally had this on repeat during most of our quarantine time.
I know it says “Study” in the title, but this fun playlist is perfect for a 20-minute timer clean (or you can work to it, too).
It’s got some throwback artists with new bops, and it’s my go-to to change up my work environment in the middle of the day.
Full of fast-paced bops, this playlist is perfect for hitting the (home) gym.
Pick a few exercises, repeat in a few circuits, and put this on in the background for a fun indoor movement session!
Who else is dying to hit the beach right now? I’m lucky to have some insanely awesome weather, but it’s definitely making it harder to stay inside.
Open up the windows and put on Pool Party – if you close your eyes, maybe you’ll trick yourself that you’re actually by the water, and not in your apartment.
Play it here.
I know what you’re thinking… “A tattooed woman in a pink matching set shooting cash out of guns is a resource for reflection?”
Hear me out. She is the best tapping teacher out there, coming at you with 100% positive energy and 0% bullshit.
Got some icky emotions coming up?
I’ve always been a big fan of journaling, and Lavendaire’s journaling videos were the perfect complement to my writing.
This is a never-before-seen set of circumstances in our lifetime – see if you can document your experience now, so when it all passes, you can look back and see how it unfolded for you in your life.
Get started with these prompts now.
I’m sure you’ve been told to meditate, or maybe you even tell yourself to meditate.
If you’re looking for guidance, or even just beautiful timer sounds and an app that tracks how much you meditate, then Ten Percent Happier is for you.
My favorite teacher is Anushka – her voice is incredible, like melted dark chocolate.
Start meditating here.
Clever Girl Finance has quickly become one of my favorite resources for personal finance.
Their blog is clean, their content is clear, and best of all, all their paid courses are actually 100% free right now because of the crisis!
Get your finances in order here.
This is my favorite way to learn – and get credit for it.
That’s right – after you watch a course, you have the option to both add the course name and the skills you learned to your profile once you’re done.
If you have some extra time right now, watch a course or two a week – and see your profile flourish.
Get learning here.
These guides are like CliffsNotes from executives. Each guidebook is a collection of articles, edited for succinctness, and curated just for that guide’s topic.
I personally have read three of them, and I can’t wait to devour more! They’re easy to read, and incredibly insightful.
Think like a CEO here.
My favorite exercise and wellness content creators have really been coming through during #coronatime.
So I’ve saved all the best no-equipment workout videos in a playlist, just for you.
Get moving here.
The Yoga Better style is based on anatomy, mechanics, and functional movement. It’s reality-based, results-oriented. Plus, there’s no spiritual language – it’s all in plain speak. And it’s definitely going to make your back feel better while you sit all day!
Want to have a live class with a trained instructor? Check out Brittney here.
Want to stream classes whenever you want, on demand? Go to My.YogaBetter.com here.
Does it feel like the days just bleed into one another at this point?
How about your meals?
One way I’ve been able to retain time sanity, curb overeating and prevent a messed up body schedule is by implementing intermittent fasting.
It’s not for everyone, but if you want a simple way to manage your eating while time casually stops having meaning, then it might be worth seeing if it’s for you.
Learn the basics here.
I don’t know whether I love this guy’s cooking or his attitude more.
The level of goofy excitement is off the charts, and his food is incredible. It’s the perfect combination for binge watching and then for trying it out yourself!
It’s been particularly fun to cook with my boyfriend as we self-quarantine, and we’ve even impressed ourselves with what we’ve been able to make!
Can you tell I absolutely live for YouTube by now?
Here’s another one of my favorite people on the ol’ Tube – Sam Ozkural. She creates lifestyle and wellness content, and to me is practically a piece of sun shining out of my screen.
Pop her videos on when cooking, getting ready in the morning, or whenever you want to learn something and get a pick-me-up at the same time.
Bring some Cali vibes to your day here.
Curated Medium blogs have actually been such an upgrade to my life recently.
Think: no ads, industry-relevant, up to date, beautifully written articles.
It’s hard to do much better than that. Add this to your morning routine and thank me later.
Start reading here.
I hope these resources make a difference for you, bring some calm, or simply spark a bit of joy to your day. There will be lasting effects of this time, some good, some not great, but know that everything is temporary.
Including this.
You got this.
ღ Maria
