halsteadproperty - Tumblr blog

[halsteadproperty]

A Guide to Bushwick, One of Brooklyn’s Most Vibrant Neighborhoods

One of Brooklyn’s most eclectic neighborhoods, Bushwick is known for its vibrant atmosphere, thriving art scene, and community spirit. In recent years, the neighborhood has experienced a resurgence, with former warehouses transformed into lofts, galleries, and music venues. There’s so much to do and see here, and it’s no surprise that more and more New Yorkers are choosing to live in the neighborhood.

The Art

Bushwick is most well-known for its dynamic art scene, which owes much of its prominence to the Bushwick Collective. Started in 2012 by Joe Ficalora, the Bushwick Collective is an ever-changing outdoor gallery of street art clustered on and around Troutman Street, Jefferson Street, and Saint Nicholas Avenue. Showcasing the diverse talent of local artists—both established and emerging—the large-scale murals celebrate art styles including graffiti, poster work, stencil art, and sticker art.

The Food

With Bushwick home to diverse cultural communities, it’s no surprise that the restaurant scene is equally dynamic. From Dock’s Asian-fusion menu to Sally Roots’ Caribbean barbecue, you can find just about anything you’re in the mood for. Other highlights include Faro, Ichiran, Mominette, Rebel Café & Garden, Bunna Café, and of course, Roberta’s which originally put Bushwick on the culinary map. You can also find some great cafés in Bushwick, including Milk & Pull, Mixtape Bushwick, and L’imprimerie.

The Shopping

Bushwick is a hub of vintage shopping and unique finds. At Friends, you can expect both contemporary and vintage clothing, as well as home décor items and accessories. Another option is Fox & Fawn, a vintage and resale boutique specializing in designer clothes. For used books, head to Molasses Books, and to add to your music collection, stop by Material World Records.

The Nightlife

Whether you’re in search of a lowkey evening out or a night of music and entertainment, you have plenty of options to choose from. Bushwick was once a center of brewing, so it’s no surprise that you can find many breweries and bars in the area. Notables include Brooklyn Cider House, Kings County Brewers Collective, The Sampler, Mad Tropical, and The Rookery. For other types of entertainment, you have the bar/theater Syndicated, the barcade Wonderville, and the theater/event space The Bushwick Starr.

The Homes

Because of all the neighborhood has to offer and the easy commute to Manhattan, Bushwick is a popular choice for those looking to live in Brooklyn. You can find everything from brownstones to lofts and luxury condominiums, like the ones at TEN43 Halsey. Thoughtfully designed with sophisticated interiors and coveted outdoor space, the one- to three-bedroom residences at TEN43 Halsey offer the best of boutique living in the heart of Bushwick.

For more information, visit the TEN43 Halsey website or get in touch with the Milano Rambarran Team at Halstead. You can also find a more in-depth Bushwick neighborhood guide here.

[halsteadproperty]

4 Podcasts to Increase Your Happiness, Farmers Markets that Deliver, and a Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

In this time of self-isolating and social distancing, it’s more important than ever to focus on wellness. From nourishing your body with the right foods and exercises to nourishing your mind by keeping it active and healthy, there are many ways we can stay well during this time.

In that spirit, we will be sharing a weekly roundup of wellness tips and resources to help you and your loved ones stay positive and healthy. These will include recipes (Cooking is not only therapeutic, but it encourages creativity and lets you nurture others.) as well as workout options and stress-relieving practices that will keep your body moving and your mind calm.

Support a Local Business

Wild Kale

Wild Kale calls itself an “online farmers market” that connects regional farmers with the public. When you insert your zip code on the website, you see the nearby farms that will deliver to you, with detailed photos of their products. Although it is a bit early for our regular summer farmers markets, you can find various meats, prepared sauces and condiments, bread, and some fresh produce like kale and carrots.

Shop now.

Farm to People

Farm to People is a Brooklyn-based program that delivers farmers market products to all of Manhattan, half of Brooklyn, parts of Queens, and beyond. You can find non-GMO and pesticide-free produce, as well as meat, seafood, and prepared foods from local bakeries and shops.

Shop now.

Join a CSA

A CSA, which stands for “community-supported agriculture,” lets you pay upfront for a growing season’s worth of fruits and vegetables (and sometimes other kinds of items), often from a single farm. The items you receive depend on seasonal and location-based availability. Learn more about CSAs here.

Find a CSA.

Buy a Gift Card

One way to support local establishments is by buying a gift card. Most restaurants, bars, and cafés are struggling financially due to dramatic decrease in business. To help, you can buy gift cards now, to use in the future.

Shop now.

Podcasts That Make You Think and Feel Happier

Happier With Gretchen Rubin

“Happier With Gretchen Rubin” is what we call an oldie but a goodie: It’s been around for a long time and has been downloaded nearly 100 million times. It all started with Rubin’s book, The Happiness Project, which documented a year-long experiment on creating a happier life. One piece of the project was this podcast, which covers a range of topics all focused on one goal: spreading happiness.

Listen now.

Unlocking Us With Brené Brown  

New York Times bestselling author Brené Brown recently launched a podcast that explores some of the deepest questions that concern us: connection, community, being heard, and social justice. It’s wildly emotional and compelling and we can’t wait to see what Brené has in store for us next.

Listen now.

Ten Percent Happier With Dan Harris  

Dan Harris, author of the bestselling book 10% Happier, explores all things happiness with special guests that include scientists, celebrities, and even the Dalai Lama. Together, they discuss meditation, creativity, anxiety, productivity, and more.

Listen now.

On Being With Krista Tippett

“On Being” is a Peabody Award-winning radio show and podcast that focuses on big questions like, “What does it mean to be human?” and “How do we want to live?”. Each week, journalist Krista Tippett shares a new discovery about the immensity of our lives. Recent episodes cover topics such as gratitude, finding ease in aloneness, and balancing connection with disconnection.

Listen now.

Clear Your Mind

Dealing with Quarantine Fatigue

It’s been several weeks since we were instructed to stay at home and maintain physical distance from others. Quarantine fatigue is setting in, but we still have to act responsibly. Here are some tips to make staying home easier.

Learn more.

Virtual Coaching for Parents

Feeling especially frustrated as a parent? Weldon, an online coaching service for parents, is offering virtual coaching and live socials to support people through this difficult time.

Learn more.

Disney’s Animation Classes

Studies have shown that drawing can help lift your mood, so why not follow along with Disney’s free drawing classes on YouTube?

Try it.

Work(out) from Home

305 Fitness

Enjoy daily dance cardio workouts from 305 Fitness, with live instructors and DJs curating the music. The free workouts take place on YouTube at 12 pm and 6 pm EST.

Try it.

FightCamp

Whether you’re missing being in the ring or you’ve never thrown a punch, FightCamp’s boxing workout videos will teach you valuable techniques and keep you motivated.

Try it.  

Nourish Your Body

Strawberry Shortcake with a Twist From EatingWell

If you’re in need of a sweet treat that’s not as heavy as most cakes, try this strawberry shortcake recipe that uses Greek yogurt for the cream.

Watch recipe video.

[halsteadproperty]

5 Motivational Fitness Podcasts, A Piri Piri Chicken Recipe, and a Creative Way to Support Small Businesses

In this time of self-isolating and social distancing, it’s more important than ever to focus on wellness. From nourishing your body with the right foods and exercises to nourishing your mind by keeping it active and healthy, there are many ways we can stay well during this time.

In that spirit, we will be sharing a weekly roundup of wellness tips and resources to help you and your loved ones stay positive and healthy. These will include recipes (Cooking is not only therapeutic, but it encourages creativity and lets you nurture others.) as well as workout options and stress-relieving practices that will keep your body moving and your mind calm.

5 Fitness Podcasts to Keep You Motivated  

Hurdle  

We all experience challenges in life. In fact, we’re all going through a pretty tough time right now. “Hurdle” host Emily Abbate talks to inspiring individuals who have turned to wellness and movement as their outlet to get through difficult times. Her mission is “to inspire you to be your best self, move with intention — and have some fun along the way.”  

Listen now.  

Science vs.

For those of you who are science-minded, this podcast is for you. A team of experts discusses fads, trends, and hot topics regarding health, fitness, and wellbeing to help you form an educated opinion. In recent episodes, they covered topics such as disinfecting, the American healthcare system, and what works to get more sleep.  

Listen now.

Ali On the Run  

It doesn’t matter what level runner you are: Ali Feller will inspire you with her weekly conversations with people “on the run.”  She interviews industry leaders, entrepreneurs, professional athletes, and everyday runners to learn from their successes and failures.  

Listen now.

Fundamental Health with Paul Saladino, MD

Dr. Paul Saladino is on a mission to understand what makes someone healthy and to share his knowledge so that others can live their best possible lives. Join him as he delves into deep conversation about longevity, athletic performance, and life optimization.  

Listen now.

20 Minute Fitness

The “20 Minute Fitness” podcast covers the latest science, methodology, and technology in the world of fitness. It combines all the need-to-know information from industry experts on topics such as nutrition, stretching, working out at home, and more.  

Listen now.

Work(out) from Home

How to Work Out in a Small Space

You might be working with limited space, but that doesn’t mean you can’t work out effectively. Here are some tips from experts on how to maximize the space you do have.

Learn more.

Orangetheory

If you’re missing the atmosphere of an exercise class, try Orangetheory’s daily high-intensity workouts, which require little to no equipment.

Try it.

Clear Your Mind

Dealing with Coronavirus Anxiety

It’s natural to be feeling an increased sense of anxiety right now. Here are some tips and resources that might help.

Learn more.

Practice Mindfulness and Stay Present

Mindfulness allows you to be present in the moment rather than focusing on the past or a hypothetical future. Here’s how it can help you cope right now.

Learn more.

Free Cooking Classes

For many, cooking can be a meditative experience. Follow along with one of these chefs who are hosting online cooking classes.

Learn more.

Nourish Your Body

Piri Piri Chicken By Chef Telmo Faria

Ingredients:

2 chickens split in half (4 halves) or spatchcocked

For the Marinade:

- 2 cups dry white wine (vinho verde) - 1/4 cup red wine vinegar - 7-8 cloves of garlic, smashed or coarsely chopped - 5-6 dry bay leaves - 2 tablespoons massa de malagueta (Portuguese crushed pepper sauce) - 2 tablespoons kosher or sea salt - 1 tablespoon smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon cumin - 1 teaspoon ground coriander  - 1 teaspoon ground black pepper  - Pinch of allspice  - Pinch of clove

For the Glaze:

1/4 cup of Portuguese Piri Piri sauce or favorite hot sauce

For the Piri Piri Aioli:

- 1/2 cup mayonnaise - 1 tablespoon Piri Piri sauce - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - 2 cloves of garlic, grated or finely minced

Directions:

To make the marinade, place the ingredients together in a bowl, whisk until well combined, pour over chicken, and marinate for 8-24 hours.

Place the chicken skin-side down on a grill over medium heat and cook until the skin is golden brown and crispy with a slight char. Turn over and finish cooking until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

Using a brush, lightly glaze both sides of the chicken with Piri Piri sauce.

Mix all of the ingredients for the aioli in a bowl and whisk well to combine.

Serve with fries, a green salad, and Piri Piri aioli.

Support a Local Business

Goldbelly

With Goldbelly, you can send the best of your city’s dishes to friends on the other side of the country. Or, you can have specialty foods from far away delivered to your doorstep. Best of all, you’ll be doing your part to support small businesses.  

Try it now.

[halsteadproperty]

30 Virtual Activities to Enjoy From Home

For so many of us around the world, social distancing has become our short-term responsibility to keep ourselves and each other safe. To avoid the further spread of COVID-19, especially to those in our communities who are most at risk, it’s our duty to stay home as much as possible and maintain a safe distance from others. 

To keep you and your loved ones entertained and engaged during this time, here are some virtual events and activities to enjoy.

Stream Montreaux Jazz Festival Concerts

Brighten up your day with music from the Montreux Jazz Festival! They are offering a wide variety of festival concerts, all available for free. These include performances by Ray Charles, Johnny Cash, Nina Simone, Marvin Gaye, and Deep Purple.

Attend the Greenwich International Film Festival

For the first time ever, the Greenwich International Film Festival is going virtual. This year’s theme is “Knowledge is Power” and you can buy your pass now to have access to the incredible lineup of 29 films from eight countries.

Attend Cooking School Online There is no better time to develop your culinary chops than now, and you can do so for free with Milk Street Cooking School’s entire line of cooking classes. You can learn everything from knife skills and spice basics to perfecting vegetarian meals and the art of kitchen improv. Share Storytime with Michelle Obama 

Break up the day with the kids with a lunchtime story reading from former first lady Michelle Obama! Tune in to PBS Kids Mondays at noon for readings of popular picture books including Miss Maple’s Seeds, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, and more.

Tour a Museum

Take a virtual tour of the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Seoul or the Guggenheim Museum in New York by using Google Arts & Culture’s collection, which features over 2,500 museums and galleries around the world.

Enjoy A Night Out (But, Actually, In!) at a Concert

This weekly concert series lets you enjoy performers across genres and time zones, from the comfort of your couch. The cost of the tickets—which ranges based on what you’re able to pay—goes to the artists and helps support small businesses.

Take an Ivy League Class

Develop your photography skills or delve deeper into your passion for literature with free online classes from Ivy League institutions, available on Class Central.

Watch a Live Concert

Take advantage of hundreds of free online concerts, featuring performers like Brandi Carlisle and Andrea Bocelli.Billboard has rounded up all of the best upcoming performances.

Attend a Talk with Hugh Jackman

Join the 92nd Street Y for a special virtual event featuring Hugh Jackman in conversation with Anette Insdorf. 

Visit Disney World

Find yourself in the happiest place on earth when you watch Virtual Disney World’s 360-degree videos of the park’s amazing attractions.

Take a Computer Science Class 

Expand your skillset with one of these nine computer science classes through Coursera and receive a certificate to add to your LinkedIn profile. The free courses range from coding and programming to app-building and Google Cloud fundamentals.

Learn the Art of Calligraphy

In this virtual beginner’s calligraphy class, you will learn the basics of modern calligraphy, which is a much more free-form style of writing than traditional calligraphy. This style allows for creative expression that can be applied to cards, invitations, signs, and more.

Experience the Best of Theatre

The National Theatre (London) is offering streaming theatrical productions, for free. Each Thursday night, a new production goes live on YouTube and is available for one week. Up next are “Frankenstein” starring Benedict Cumberbatch and “Antony & Cleopatra” starring Ralph Fiennes.

Attend a Wine Tasting

The Brooklyn Winery is bringing wine tastings to you with its virtual wine tasting series. During this interactive experience, two wines will be selected each week from the “virtual tasting 4-pack” (which you can buy online) and a member of the winemaking team will guide you through a one-of-a-kind tasting. 

Take a Theater Course 

Express yourself, master the art of cabaret, practice writing, and learn the creative process of artistic directors and playwrights when you take advantage of the New York Theatre Workshop’s virtual programming.

Try a Comedy Workshop

Have you always wanted to get behind the mic? Do you have a few jokes up your sleeve? The Upright Citizens Brigade Training Center has a full roster of improvisation and sketch comedy classes to explore.

Research at the NYPL

Although the New York Public Library is currently closed, it has opened up many of its databases to the public. You can access more than 30 academic databases including the full-text archive of The New York Times and Wall Street Journal. 

Document Your Experience

The New-York Historical Society documents history as it happens, and the moment we’re living in is certainly worth documenting. You can submit images, objects, and diary entries to be included in the collection.

Learn at Home with Scholastic

Teaching your kids remotely is no easy task, so Scholastic has put together a “Learn at Home” program to keep them reading, thinking, and growing while they’re away from the classroom.

Channel Your Green Thumb

Calling all plant lovers! Participate in one of the New York Botanical Garden’s online classes via Zoom and learn about the fundamentals of gardening, landscape design, fermenting vegetables, and more.

Attend a Virtual Dance Party

Are you missing New York City’s nightlife? Make your own dancefloor at home and dance along to livestream parties put on by clubs, dance halls, and music venues across the city. 

Enjoy the Opera

Get dressed for the opera, order in a delicious spread (or make your own) and enjoy the Met Opera’s “Nightly Opera Streams,” featuring enthralling productions from the past.

Take an Art Class from MoMA

The Museum of Modern Art is offering free online art courses that allow you to hear from exhibit curators, artists, and designers and get an exclusive up-close look at the exhibits and pieces inside the museum’s collection. You can enroll whenever you’d like and take the courses at your own pace. 

Learn with History @ Home

The New-York Historical Society offers engaging online history classes, with weekly sessions covering grades K-12. The classes happen in real time and include historical documents, artifacts, and virtual exhibitions that encourage students to think critically about the nation’s history.  

Explore 60,000 eBooks

Have you heard of Project Gutenberg? The oldest digital library, it contains over 60,000 free eBooks—including many of literature’s greats.

Learn a New Skill with 92Y

Whether you want to learn to draw, knit, sculpt, or play guitar, there’s an online class from 92Y that will help.

Take a Virtual Cooking Class

Enjoy a Cook Space cooking class via Zoom. You’ll get to learn about each ingredient, interact with fellow classmates, and enjoy a delicious meal at the end.

Enjoy an Evening  at Radio City with Ben Platt

Experience a Radio City Music Hall performance by Tony winner Ben Platt—known for his roles in “Dear Evan Hansen” and “The Politician”—when you watch this special concert on Netflix.

Bring Lincoln Center to Your Home

You can enjoy world-class performing arts with Lincoln Center at Home, which offers musical performances, dance, and live workshops to help you perfect your own performance skills.

Win Trivia Night

Test your knowledge across a range of subjects including music, history, sports, and more with this live trivia event held over Zoom. You can play solo or enlist friends and family members to join your team.

[halsteadproperty]

At-Home Workouts, Books On Fitness and Nutrition, and a Delicious Parmesan Pistachio Kale Salad Recipe

In this time of self-isolating and social distancing, it’s more important than ever to focus on wellness. From nourishing your body with the right foods and exercises to nourishing your mind by keeping it active and healthy, there are many ways we can stay well during this time.

In that spirit, we will be sharing a weekly roundup of wellness tips and resources to help you and your loved ones stay positive and healthy. These will include recipes (Cooking is not only therapeutic, but it encourages creativity and lets you nurture others.) as well as workout options and stress-relieving practices that will keep your body moving and your mind calm.

Fitness & Nutrition Books to Keep You Motivated and Healthy

Genius Foods: Become Smarter, Happier, and More Productive While Protecting Your Brain for Life   By Max Lugavere  

Discover the powerful connection between our brains and the food we eat with Max Lugavere’s comprehensive and compelling guide to brain optimization. He breaks down the science so it’s easy to understand, touching on anxiety, inflammation, stress, nutrient deficiencies, and more. Best of all, he does it with an infectious personality filled with humor and positivity.

Order on Amazon or Bookshop.  

No Sweat: How the Simple Science of Motivation Can Bring You a Lifetime of Fitness By Michelle Segar, PhD

This motivational guide to self-care and sustainable change focuses on the fact that humans need instant gratification to stay motivated. In other words, “we're not going to exercise unless it makes us happy right now.” Understand the science of motivation to improve your mindset toward movement. Then, use Stop Aging, Start Training by Salvatore Fichera to increase your strength, heighten your mental alertness, and improve your quality of life.

Order on Amazon or Bookshop.

Deskbound: Standing Up to a Sitting World By Dr. Kelly Starrett  

Dr. Kelly Starrett is the author of The New York Times bestseller Becoming a Supple Leopard, which has changed the way people approach athletic performance and everyday movement. In his recent research, Starrett discovered that many underlying issues are related to daily habits such as spending the majority of time sitting down. Deskbound highlights these habits and their consequences as well as strategies to overcome them.  

Order on Amazon or Bookshop.

The Yoga Bible By Christina Brown  

Enhance your practice with this definitive guide to the philosophy and practice of yoga. The Yoga Bible provides in-depth descriptions and illustrations of all yoga poses and breathing techniques.

Order on Amazon or Bookshop.

1,500 Stretches: The Complete Guide to Flexibility and Movement By Hollis Liebman

Stretching is the single most important thing we can do on a daily basis to tone our body, improve flexibility, and prevent injury. This illustrated guide to 1,500 stretching poses is organized by body part and paired with beautiful photographs and the health benefits of each move. It’s perfect to do with your kids!  

Order on Amazon or Bookshop.

Nourish Your Body

Parmesan Pistachio Kale Salad Total time: 20 minutes Servings: 4

Salad Ingredients:

- 2 bunches Lacinato kale leaves, removed from stems and chopped - 1/2 tablespoon olive oil - 1/4 cup roasted pistachios, chopped - 1/4 cup shaved parmesan

Creamy Parmesan Dressing Ingredients:

- 1/2 cup finely grated parmesan cheese - 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt - 1 garlic clove - 1 tablespoon freshly snipped chives - 1/2 tablespoon Dijon mustard - 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1/4 teaspoon pepper - 1/2 lemon, juiced - 1/2 cup olive oil

Instructions:

1. Place the kale leaves in a large bowl. Drizzle with the olive oil and massage the oil into the leaves.

2. Let the kale sit while you make the dressing. In a food processor, combine the cheese, yogurt, garlic, mustard, vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until pureed.

3. With the processor still on, stream in the olive oil until a creamy dressing forms. (This will make more dressing than needed, but you can store it sealed in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Make sure to stir well before using.)

4. Drizzle a few tablespoons of the dressing over the kale and toss it well for a minute or two, so the dressing is evenly dispersed.

5. Cover with the chopped pistachios and shaved parmesan. Serve!

How to Prep Your Home for a Virtual Dinner Party

As we all adjust to the practice of physical distancing and our desire to socialize heightens, you may want to consider hosting a dinner party—virtually! Curbed breaks down everything you need to know from lighting and picking the best spot to angles and decor. Plus, in preparation for your virtual dinner party, take a look at Eater’s guide to properly defrosting foods.

Work(out) from Home

Down Dog

The popular yoga platform is offering free access to not only its Down Dog app, but also its HIIT, Barre, and other apps until May 1. For students, teachers, and healthcare professionals, the apps are free to use until July 1.

Try it now.

Team Body Project

Try these low-impact HIIT workouts from Body Project, available on YouTube. They’re perfect for beginner and intermediate-level individuals.

Try it now.

Stay Injury-Free

As you transition to at-home workouts, make sure you’re exercising safely. This article provides tips to ensure you don’t injure yourself during your workouts. Learn more.

Clear Your Mind

Woebot

Sometimes you just need someone—or something—to vent to. Woebot is an AI service that lets you message a bot, which responds with encouraging, thought-provoking feedback throughout the conversation. The free app, which was designed by a group of psychologists, uses cognitive behavioral therapy techniques to interact and respond with users.

Try it.

Big Health

Big Health’s digital programs—Daylight and Sleepio—provide behavioral help via web or mobile. It’s like having the world’s best therapists on call.

Try it.

Marie Kondo’s Work-from-Home Tips

Organizing expert Marie Kondo’s tips on creating a productive workspace are a great resource. Learn how to turn your physical space into one that benefits your mental wellbeing.

Learn more.

Support a Small Business

Postmates  

Postmates now has a section highlighting local restaurants delivering in your area. Just type in your address and scroll down for “Support Local Restaurants.”

Order now.

Your NYC Grocery Delivery Guide

During this time, making a trip to the grocery store or even getting groceries delivered can be quite the ordeal, especially if you’re using Amazon or a chain like Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s. This comprehensive guide from Eater maps out local specialty supermarkets, farm-based suppliers, and restaurant-turned-grocery stores that deliver right to your doorstep.

Learn more.

[halsteadproperty]

Books to Guide You, Exercises to Energize You, and a Recipe to Nourish You

In this time of self-isolating and social distancing, it’s more important than ever to focus on wellness. From nourishing your body with the right foods and exercises to nourishing your mind by keeping it active and healthy, there are many ways we can stay well during this time. 

In that spirit, we will be sharing a weekly roundup of wellness tips and resources to help you and your loved ones stay positive and healthy. These will include recipes (Cooking is not only therapeutic, but it encourages creativity and lets you nurture others.) as well as workout options and stress-relieving practices that will keep your body moving and your mind calm. 

Books to Guide, Center, and Lift You Up

Journey to the Heart: Daily Meditations on the Path to Freeing Your Soul   By Melody Beattie  

Melody Beattie shares her narrative of a road trip she took across the west, with stops at mystical sites like Sedona, Arizona and Chaco Canyon, New Mexico. She divides her journey into 365 meditations that cultivate hope and joy.  

Order on Amazon or Bookshop.

The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse   By Charlie Mackesy

From British illustrator Charlie Mackesy, this modern tale is an inspiring fable for all ages. It explores life’s universal lessons through 100 color and black-and-white drawings.

Order on Amazon or Bookshop.

The One-Minute Gratitude Journal   By Brenda Nathan  

We all have so much to be grateful for. Brenda Nathan's journal helps us remember that through inspiring passages and the ability to jot down daily reflections on what made us thankful that day.

Order on Amazon.

Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life...and Maybe the World By Admiral William H. McRaven  

In 2014, Admiral William H. McRaven gave an inspiring commencement speech about the 10 principles he learned during Navy SEAL training. This timeless book is the continuation of that beloved speech, sharing powerful life lessons, practical advice, and wisdom.

Order on Amazon or Bookshop.

the sun and her flowers   By Rupi Kaur  

This collection of poetry and illustrations by Rupi Kaur is about the journey of growth and healing, split into five movements: wilting, falling, rooting, rising, and blooming. It touches on hardship, the emotions that come with it, and embracing the resulting strength.  

Order on Amazon or Bookshop.

Nourish Your Body

Crispy Chipotle Chicken Tacos with Cilantro Lime Ranch   by Half Baked Harvest  

Make these oven-baked loaded tacos for a weeknight dinner, or whenever you’re in the mood. The smoky chipotle spice mix adds plenty of flavor, while the cilantro lime ranch provides a cooling, tangy component. Once they come out of the oven, the tacos are perfectly crispy on the outside, with melted cheesy goodness inside.

See the recipe.

Work(out) from Home

Melissa Wood Health

Melissa Wood is a certified health and wellness coach, yoga and Pilates teacher, meditator, and founder of the Melissa Wood Health Method. Her workouts feature slow, low-impact movements that combine yoga and Pilates. She also lives a plant-based lifestyle and is an incredible resource for nutrition guidance and mindful eating. Her videos are refreshingly motivating, positive, and a great way to start your day.

Follow her and download her app.

Joseph Corella: Cardio Dance to Broadway

Dance to your favorite Broadway numbers in the comfort of your own home with Joseph Corella. A choreographer and Broadway performer, Joseph posts videos that are upbeat, energizing, and accessible for dancers of all levels. You can expect to dance along to songs from “Mamma Mia,” “Rent,” “Chicago,” “Hairspray,” and more.

Try it.

Bigfoot: The Social Distancing Champion's Running Challenge

Just like Bigfoot himself, this challenge is all about social distancing. Run (or walk) the virtual 5K, 10K, half marathon, or marathon and simultaneously support U.S. food banks.

Sign up now.

Rising New York Road Runners Resources

Help the entire family stay active at home with these resources from Rising New York Road Runners. Designed for people of all ages, they include indoor and outdoor activities, photos and instructions, and videos from Olympic medalist Jenny Simpson.

Try it.

Clear Your Mind

Simple Habit

Perfect for busy people, Simple Habit helps you develop a meditation practice with five-minute guided sessions that focus on stress relief and sleep.

Download the app.

Breathing Exercises

These six breathing exercises have shown to promote relaxation, lower blood pressure, and lower stress. Try one or all of them to clear your mind in just a few minutes.

Try them now.

You Don’t Need to Be Productive

Though maintaining positive habits is beneficial during this time, it’s equally important to give yourself a break. Instead of feeling the need to overachieve and make the most of your “extra time,” be compassionate toward yourself.

Find out more.

Support a Small Business

Verizon’s #PayItForwardLive

Tune in to Verizon’s weekly live streams featuring popular entertainers and support a local business by buying a digital gift card. Verizon has pledged to donate up to $5 million.

Pay it forward.

[halsteadproperty]

A Guide to Giving Back

Now, more than ever, it is so important for us to work together for the greater good. For many of us, this means physical distancing and staying at home to keep our communities safe. For healthcare workers, first responders, food and agriculture workers, transportation workers, postal workers, and many others, it means providing essential services that benefit everyone else.

There are many ways for us to support members of our communities during this time, from the frontline workers who are facing challenging circumstances to essential workers whose services we rely on, and of course, those who have been directly affected by the coronavirus pandemic. This guide provides a selection of organizations that you can donate to in order to give back to those who can use all of our support.

Support Frontline Workers

Frontline workers are those who are tackling this pandemic directly: medical professionals, hospital employees, and first responders helping coronavirus patients. They are facing dire shortages of protective equipment such as masks and gloves, often putting themselves at risk in order to help others. Here are some ways you can support them:

Direct Relief is working around-the-clock to get protective gear and medicines to medical professionals.

The Center for Disaster Philanthropy’s COVID-19 Response Fund is supporting nonprofits that are serving vulnerable populations.

Donate to Feed the Frontline, which is delivering meals to hospital employees.

Heart to Heart International is working globally to facilitate treatment and responses to the pandemic.

GlobalGiving’s Coronavirus Relief Fund helps to send healthcare workers, medical supplies and equipment, and essential items to communities that need them.

Support Essential Workers

In addition to the essential services provided by frontline workers, those who work in grocery stores, restaurants, pharmacies, mass transit, and many other critical industries go above and beyond to keep our communities running. These are some ways to give back to them:

The Restaurant Workers’ Community Foundation’s COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund supports restaurant workers and non-profits that are aiding this community. A percentage of funds will also go toward “zero-interest” loans to restaurants.

Donate to One Fair Wage to support car service, restaurant, and delivery workers who typically rely on tips.

The James Beard Foundation has organized a relief fund to give grants to small restaurants and other independent establishments in the food and beverage industry.

The United States Bartenders’ Guild has an emergency program to provide financial assistance to those in the bartending community.

Donate to Coronavirus Victims

There are many ways you can directly support individuals and families affected by the pandemic.

Meals on Wheels distributes meals to seniors across the U.S. to keep them safe and cared for during this time.

Ronald McDonald House Charities has a presence in 65 countries and offers support to families with sick children in local communities. The organization accepts donations to local chapters.

According to No Kid Hungry, “nearly 22 million children rely on the meals they receive at school.” No Kid Hungry has established efforts to feed kids during this period of school closures.

By supporting Feeding America, you can help food banks around the country provide food to communities in need.

Support a Local Animal Shelter

Animal shelters are facing challenges due to coronavirus-related restrictions. Here is how you can help:

The ASPCA’s New York City adoption center is currently closed, but animal lovers can still show support through monetary donations.

Best Friends helps approximately 3,000 animal shelters and is currently working on programs involving pet fostering, remote adoptions, and virtual veterinary services.

If you would like to provide a loving home to a rescue pet, you can search for pets on the Animal Care Centers of NYC website. The care centers are currently closed, but you can contact the organization via email if you are interested in adopting or fostering.

Offer Assistance to At-Risk Neighbors

The elderly and people with chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, and others are at a higher risk. Reach out to neighbors (while maintaining a safe distance) and ask them how you can help, whether by picking up groceries and prescriptions or in some other way.

Additional Resources 

NYC Official Website

NYC Health + Hospitals

State of New York  

State of New Jersey

State of Connecticut

CNN’s Guide to Giving and Getting Help

[halsteadproperty]

Fun and Educational Activities for Children to Enjoy at Home 

Many of us find ourselves at home with children, navigating the world of online learning during this time of social distancing. Over the last month, you may have already scheduled family movie nights, dusted off the board games and puzzles, and broken out the glue sticks and glitter for arts & crafts.

You might be in search of more kid-friendly ideas that are educational and engaging. I hope your family enjoys this selection of activities that are sure to keep them moving, entertained, and focused during after-school hours and on weekends. Please let me know if you try one of these resources and recipes, and I would love if you share any ideas with me as well!

Let’s Get Moving!

Cosmic Kids – Yoga and mindfulness are not just for adults! Cosmic Kids offers tons of yoga videos taught by instructor Jaime Amor. Recently featured in the Wall Street Journal, Cosmic Kids has themed yoga classes such as “Trolls,” “Frozen,” and “Star Wars.” There are also “Zen Den” mindfulness classes and “Yoga Disco” for kids to shake up their yoga practice with a dance break. Access Cosmic Kids with its app available for Apple TV, iOS, Android, and desktop. You can sign up for a 2-week free trial. Cosmic Kids also has a YouTube channel where you can stream yoga videos, while the app offers the full, ad-free library.  

GoNoodle – Designed for families and educators, GoNoodle offers videos, games, and activities completely free of charge. The goal is to inspire kids to get moving and to benefit their “physical wellness, academic success, and social-emotional health,” according to its website. Download the GoNoodle Games app (iOS only) and the GoNoodle - Kids Videos app, which is available on iOS, Android, Apple TV, and more. There are dozens of videos, ranging from Zumba Kids to yoga and exercises.

KIDZ Bop “Daily Dance Break” at 3pm ET/12pm PT – Head to KIDZ Bop’s YouTube channel for a live-streamed dance break to pop songs that even adults will love. The YouTube channel has tons of music videos and dance tutorials (“Uptown Funk,” “Havana,” and “7 Rings” to name a few) that will have the kids—and you—singing and dancing all day.  

Imagination and Inspiration!

DIY.org – From art classes to science experiments, LEGO creations, and cooking demos, DIY.org is full of courses for ages 4-13+ to explore their interests or learn a new skill. Download the iOS app or visit DIY.org to sign up for a free trial.

Pinna – If you’re worried that your kids are getting a little too much screen time these days, then check out Pinna, home to audiobooks, podcasts, and music for ages 3-12. You will find tons of educational content related to history and science. Download Pinna on iOS, Android, and Amazon AppStore.

New York Public Library’s Online Storytime – Leave it to NYPL’s librarians to lead storytime and sing-alongs with some of the most cherished children’s books. You can find the most recent storytime here and more on NYPL’s Vimeo channel.

Creative Recipes – Tie on the aprons and get baking and cooking. Check out this collection of kid-friendly recipes fromTasty that feature snackable, whimsical creations like liquid nitrogen ice cream and pie cones in several flavors. While we are on the subject of cooking, if you’re in need of some new ideas for mealtime, fear not! Delish has you covered with these 32 family-friendly recipes.

[halsteadproperty]

Halstead Development Marketing’s 3D Walkthroughs Showcased on Lux Exposé

Global luxury marketing agency Lux Exposé recently featured Halstead Development Marketing’s virtual marketing capabilities. Nearly all of HDM’s developments across New York City can now be experienced from home, which is especially beneficial now, during the coronavirus pandemic.

“Virtual has taken center-stage in real estate as agents look to spur demand, engage with consumers in an unprecedented period, and make a highly tactile process stimulating for home shoppers from afar,” said Hunter Frick, Senior Vice President of Marketing for HDM.

“Most projects already had these tools in place, while others have gotten them together in record time,” Hunter continued. “We have event transported sales tools from our brick-and-mortar sales galleries into agents’ residences, so they can be armed with the full tech experience of the sales gallery for virtual appointments.”

Interested buyers can take virtual tours of sales galleries of The Rowan, Vandewater, and Eleven Hancock. They can also take 3D virtual tours of apartments inside 10 Lenox, Eight St. Marks, Arbor Eighteen, and The Rennie. Soon, they will also be able to virtually visit The Brooklyn Grove in Downtown Brooklyn as well as the GALERIE in Long Island City.

Read the full article here. 

[halsteadproperty]

Art and the Home: A Conversation with Contemporary Artist Gunnar Magnus

By Linda Guido, Lic. Assoc. R. E. Broker, Halstead

Welcome to Art and the Home, a monthly series featuring interviews with contemporary artists and interior designers, as well as resources for your own art collection. This first conversation is with Gunnar Magnus, a young New York-based artist whose figurative abstract expressionist works have been gaining attention in galleries around the city. Before jumping in, a little bit of context for how and why this series came about. As a teenager, I was filled with passion for all kinds of art: pottery, jewelry-making, painting, and drawing. I'd spend eight hours a day in class at the Parson's School of Design, then go sit at The Met or The Frick and draw for hours. For various reasons, I eventually migrated into the business world, and in 2002 joined Halstead as a real estate agent.

A few years ago, I was introduced to a gallery owner in search of an apartment in Manhattan. During his home-finding process, we developed a friendship and I began attending his openings. My love for art was rekindled. I soon realized that my real estate career and the art world were closely linked—once someone finds a place to call home, they naturally seek out artwork with which to fill it.

Since then, I've met, learned from, and supported the work of artists throughout the city, Gunnar included. I spoke with him about his work, his inspirations, and his advice for other artists. My conversation with him is below. Enjoy.

Tell me a little about yourself and how you got started in art.

I grew up in Harrison, New York, then when I was about 15, my family moved to Connecticut. Now I live in Bushwick, Brooklyn. I got my start in art right around when I could walk and talk. I was always drawing from a very young age, and that continued until my early teens, when I took a long break. I got back into art out of necessity. I had no real passion in my life until I started creating again, and now it’s my entire life and I couldn’t be happier.

What kind of artist do you consider yourself to be?

I guess you could call me an abstract painter, but really they’re mostly figurative abstracts. The work almost always features characters, beasts, heroes, villains. It really walks a fine line between the two, I think.

What motivates and inspires you to paint?

My motivations and inspiration always come from within: my mind, my emotions, and my subconscious are always working hand in hand. It all fits together and flows very nicely.

Has your motivation changed over time?

So far, no. I’ve always drawn from introspection. That’s one thing that’s stayed very consistent.

Has your art changed over time?

It has, quite a bit actually. My starting point two years ago was a very loose and expressive style. Then, I phased through Cubist and surrealist phases that felt a bit tight and too calculated for where my strengths lie. Now I’ve circled back to that loose and free style but I feel like this time around, it’s 100% my own style—my own voice.

Is there something you are trying to convey through your art, a message you are communicating to your audience?

No.

Where do you hope to go with your art in the short and long term?

Short and long term, I’d just like to keep seeing my career grow and expand. I’d really like to continue making a name for myself here in New York in particular, but I definitely have my eyes on some international affairs in the near future. Long term, I want to have a slow and steady growth. I definitely don't want to fly too close to the sun and fizzle out.

What would you say to someone interested in pursuing art?

To know yourself on all sides is absolute strength. Know your power and know your weakness. Be like water. Adapt, flow, and crash as life needs you to. And finally, relentlessly pursue your passions. There’s no greater reward in life than doing what you love, relentlessly.

Thank you to Gunnar for sharing his time and creativity. To see more of his work, take a look at his Instagram page and Art Apple NYC’s website. Gunnar’s work is also on view at Six Summit Gallery inside Port Authority Bus Terminal and in the window display of 209 West 38th Street in the Garment District.

[halsteadproperty]

What Will America’s Housing Market Look Like After the Coronavirus Pandemic Ends?

The start of 2020 showed positive signs for the real estate market, with buyers responding to plenty of inventory and low mortgage rates. The coronavirus pandemic, however, effectively put that on hold. Will that original momentum return after the worst of this pandemic is over, or should we expect a difficult period for the real estate market?

Forbes talked with five of the country’s top real estate agents to get their thoughts. One of the agents is Halstead’s Louise Phillips Forbes, a leading power broker in New York City and the country. 

“We were on fire until last month,” she said about the New York market. “Crisis teaches us to be resilient, creative, and gritty. Where there is a will, there is a way to get any deal done. Closings are still happening. Banks have learned to support and accept ‘desktop’ appraisals, co-op boards are facilitating interviews through Zoom and Skype.”

Referring to a recent closing, Louise said, “There were four cars in a parking lot representing the bank’s attorney, the seller’s attorney, the buyer’s attorney, and the title company.” These representatives donned masks and gloves, running back and forth between the cars to get signatures. “That brings me hope that we can get through this,” Louise said.

While many who were on the market have put their searches on hold for the time being, there is no denying that homebuying is an integral part of countless Americans’ lives. “Owning a home has been part of the American Dream since WWII,” Louise said. “My best advice for agents is to have a voice with your clients, be opinionated, and don’t be afraid to remind them to quiet the noise of the news and to look within to know what’s right for [them].”

Though the pandemic has put much of the economy at a standstill, Louise believes that the country—and especially New York—will bounce back. “New York real estate has led us through darker days of economic recovery including something as paralyzing as 9/11. With every transaction, real estate in America touches 13 jobs. That’s why it represents 5% of [the] GDP. That’s why it will survive.”

Read the full article here.

[halsteadproperty]

At-Home Business Tips 

From Halstead Real Estate 

In a span of three weeks, we have gone from 5.2% of the American workforce telecommuting on a regular basis to record numbers of people working from home. For many of us, this is the first time we are doing so. 

To help you navigate your remote workdays, we want to share some tips and resources that will help you make the best of your temporary work setup.

Fast Company shares some incredible advice on transitioning to your new routine. Tips include forming new—and beneficial—habits and staying in touch with your coworkers.

Read More

In this Harvard Business School article, experts provide practical advice on remote work, especially for those who manage teams.  

The suggested business practices include:

Communicate clearly and be decisive.

Lead by example.

Be extra flexible.

Adjust work expectations.

Rethink meetings and consider Slack, email, or smaller meetings.

Consider more flexible hours.

Focus on outcomes rather than monitoring activities.

Take time to empathize with your team.

Read the full article

Here are some production tips for your next video conference, from Halstead’s Brand Team:

Wear something you would wear to work/a business meeting.

Elevate your laptop to improve the camera angle, instead of looking downward at the screen. (see picture above for proper placement of elevation)

Dim the lights behind you and position yourself so that there is a light in front of you. Get a Lume Cube to make sure you are illuminated properly during your video conference. It is only $49 with free 1-2 day shipping.

Make sure you’re in a private and quiet room. Try to avoid having movement behind you.

Take a minute to consider what is behind you. An unlit lamp, bookshelves, artwork, photos—these are fine, as long as there is not an overabundance of clutter.

Remember that you might be visible even when you’re not speaking, so be aware of your body language during the entire meeting. Smile, sit up, and look at the camera (on a laptop there is usually a light where the camera is) instead of at your screen, so that you are speaking directly to meeting attendees.

Even as we practice physical distancing, there are quite a few tools that allow us to help show homes virtually. Here are some approaches we are taking in this climate:

3D Walkthroughs: For years, we have been using 3D scanning technology at Halstead. You can see our properties that have 3D Walkthroughs here.

Property Videos: Halstead’s video content has over 8 million views, and its library of professionally produced video tours is one of the largest in the industry. View our full gallery of thousands of videos here or search through homes with video.

Zillow/StreetEasy 3D Tours: Using 360-degree cameras and the Zillow 3D Home app, we are able to show a property inside-out, from all angles.

Video Conferencing: In collaboration with our clients, we can host virtual open houses and virtual showings.

[halsteadproperty]

30 Social Distancing Activities For You 

From Halstead Real Estate 

For so many of us around the world, social distancing has become our short-term responsibility to keep ourselves and each other safe. To avoid the further spread of COVID-19, especially to those in our communities who are most at risk, it’s our duty to stay home as much as possible and maintain a safe distance from others. 

Whether you have any symptoms or not, remember that you could still endanger others. If we do our part to stay at home and help limit the spread of this virus, not only do we keep ourselves and others healthy, but we also avoid overburdening our medical professionals and healthcare system. 

So, please spend as much time at home as possible over the next few weeks. We have some ideas to help keep you entertained and engaged while you practice social distancing.

1. Tour a Museum Virtually - Take a tour of the Louvre, see a collection at the Guggenheim, explore the Museum of Natural History, and take in an exhibit at the Uffizi Gallerywithout leaving home. Start with this shortlist of virtual museum tours and then get lost in this vast collectioncurated by Google Arts & Culture.

2. Learn a New Language - Whether you’ve been meaning to pick up Spanish, perfect your French, or try your hand at Arabic, you finally have the time to do it. Download Duolingoor Rosetta Stone to choose from dozens of languages and start with the basics or build on the skills you already have.

3. Support Local Businesses - It’s a difficult time for local businesses, so support your favorite restaurants by ordering delivery. (You can opt for your delivery person to leave your food at the door to limit contact.) Another great way to offer support is to buy gift cards to your favorite small businesses now, to use in the future.

4. Meditate - Dedicate some of your time to practicing mindfulness and focusing inward. Start by downloading the MNDFL Video app (or another meditation app like Headspace, Insight Timer, or Calm) to access guided meditations that help you relax, set intentions, sleep, and more.

5. Read a Bestseller - There’s nothing like a good book, especially during difficult or uncertain times. Take a look at Amazon’s Best Seller lists for some great reads.

6. Dust Off the Board Games - Bring out Scattergories, Monopoly, or your other favorite board games and enjoy some quality time with your family or roommates.

7. Organize Your Home - It’s the perfect time to start on those organizing projects. Tackle a room/area of your home each day (or consider Marie Kondo’s method) and declutter, reorganize, and set aside the items you want to donate.

8. Spend Time in Nature - As long as you can keep a minimum of six feet’s distance from others, go outside and take in some fresh air. Take a leisurely walk or go for a hike in an uncrowded area and enjoy the almost-spring weather.

9. Video Chat - Take advantage of your free time and FaceTime or Skype with friends and family members, no matter where they’re located.

10. Take Virtual House Tours - See what’s for sale/rent by choosing the “Video Tour” and/or “3D Walkthrough” option in Halstead.com’sadvanced search feature.

11. Practice (or Learn) an Instrument - Put that guitar you have lying around to good use or practice the piano you rarely play, and use this time to develop your skills.

12. DIY Easter Crafts - Celebrate Easter by trying one or several of these DIY crafts, which include creating egg carton chicks and designing bunny jars.

13. Perfect Your Workout Regimen - You don’t need to go to the gym to work out. Instead, try one of these apps to create an at-home exercise plan that works for you.

14. Learn Some New Recipes - Swap recipes with friends, try a YouTube tutorial, or follow an online recipe to make a dish—or a whole meal—that you’ve never made before.

15. Binge Watch a Series - There are endless shows to stream on platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime. These are some great options, as are these comforting picks.

16. Play a Virtual Game of Chess - There are thousands and thousands of game apps to choose from, including chess, which you can play with people around the globe.

17. Learn from the Masters - Get a lesson in acting from Natalie Portman, pick up cooking techniques from Thomas Keller, and learn about conservation from Jane Goodall when you use MasterClass, a platform that lets you learn from experts.

18. Take Up Birdwatching - Download the Merlin Bird ID app and start discovering what species of birds nest near you. Then, dust off your binoculars and head to your terrace or backyard to start. Make sure to use a birdwatching map like eBird.

19. Become a Film Critic - You’ll likely be spending some time watching movies in the next few weeks, so why not write reviews afterwards and share them with other film buffs on Letterboxd?

20. Take Online Courses - Whether you want to learn how to code or you’re interested in taking a Harvard course on neuroscience, you can do it for free online. Here are some excellent options.

21. Look Out for Others - Reach out to higher-risk neighbors and community members (while maintaining a safe distance) and ask if they need help with their groceries or prescriptions. They might even simply want someone to talk to on the phone.

22. Plant a Tree - Commemorate Earth Day by donating to The Canopy Project, which plants trees around the world. 2020 is the 50th official Earth Day, and you can help in the efforts to plant 7.8 billion trees, one for every person on earth.

23. Listen to a Podcast, or Several - No matter what mood you’re in, there’s a podcast for you. Keep up with the latest happenings or escape into a fun story with one of these podcasts.

24. Focus on Self-Care - Dedicate some time in your day to focus on just you. Do yoga, bake, listen to your favorite album—practice self-care, whatever that looks like for you.

25. Donate to a Food Bank - It’s an especially stressful time for food banks, which are facing a decrease in donations and volunteers as the need for their services increases. Consider making a donation to a food bank, especially one that’s in a coronavirus hotspot.

26. Watch a Zoo’s Live Feed - See what the San Diego Zoo’s newest baby orangutan is up to or follow along a day in the life of an elephant at the Houston Zoo. These and other zoos across the country have live video feeds of some of their habitats, letting you see the action up close.

27. Play Games On Your Smart Home Device - Use your Google Home, Amazon Echo, or similar device to play a large collection of single- or multiplayer games.

28. Enjoy Live Music - Musicians are making the best of this time by sharing live performance streams. Attend a virtual concert by taking a look at Billboard’s ever-updating list of live streams.

29. Clear Out Your Inbox - Use this time to finally organize your inbox, respond to messages, and delete all the emails you don’t need.

30. Get Plenty of Rest - Help keep your body and mind healthy by getting plenty of sleep so that your immune system is at its best.

[halsteadproperty]

At-Home Wellness Tips 

Part 2 

In this time of self-isolating and social distancing, it’s more important than ever to focus on wellness. From nourishing your body with the right foods and exercises to nourishing your mind by keeping it active and healthy, there are many ways we can stay well during this time.

In that spirit, I will be sharing a weekly roundup of wellness tips and resources to help you and your loved ones stay positive and healthy. These will include recipes (Cooking is not only therapeutic, but it encourages creativity and lets you nurture others.) as well as workout options and stress-relieving practices that will keep your body moving and your mind calm.

Please let me know if you try one of the recipes I share or use an app/service I recommend. Also, feel free to share any of your go-to wellness tips and resources for inclusion in a future At-Home Wellness Tips email!

How to Sanitize Your Groceries 

Find out how to properly wipe down your groceries from this video by Dr. Sanjay Gupta. Watch Now

How to Make a No-Sew Mask 

The CDC is now recommending that we wear face coverings in public. Here are several tutorials on making your own masks using fabric you have at home. Watch Now

Headspace

This week, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo announced a partnership with Headspace, a meditation app. They introduced a special “New York State of Mind” collection of guided meditations for adults and children, sleep experiences, mindful exercises, and wellness articles. Best of all, you don’t have to be a New Yorker to use the free resources. Headspace is also offering free access to Headspace Plus for all U.S. healthcare professionals. Learn More

Calm

Use the Calm app for meditation, help with sleep, relaxing music, and video lessons on mindful movement. Every weekday, Calm is offering a 10-minute meditation live stream on YouTube and Facebook. This curated collection of meditations, sleep stories, and music is also free and specially selected to support mental wellness during this time. Learn More

Chicken Quinoa Bowls with Balsamic Dressing 

Via Taste of Home and Allyson Meyler 

Ingredients:

1/4 cup balsamic vinegar 2/3 cup water 1/3 cup quinoa, rinsed 2 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (6 ounces each) 3 tsps olive or coconut oil, divided 1/4 tsp garlic powder 1/2 tsp salt, divided 1/4 tsp pepper, divided 1/2 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt 1/2 tsp spicy brown mustard 1/2 medium ripe avocado, peeled and sliced 6 cherry tomatoes, halved

Directions:

Place vinegar in a small saucepan; bring to a boil. Cook until slightly thickened, 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a bowl; cool completely.

In a small saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add quinoa. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, until liquid is absorbed, 10-12 minutes. Keep warm.

Preheat broiler. Toss chicken with 2 teaspoons oil, garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Place on one half of a 15x10x1-in. pan coated with cooking spray. Broil 4 in. from heat for 5 minutes. Meanwhile, toss asparagus with the remaining oil, salt, and pepper.

Remove pan from oven; turn chicken over. Add asparagus. Broil until a thermometer inserted in chicken reads 165° and asparagus is tender, 3-5 minutes. Let chicken stand 5 minutes before slicing.

For dressing, stir yogurt and mustard into balsamic reduction. To serve, spoon quinoa into bowls; top with chicken, asparagus, avocado, and tomatoes. Serve with dressing.

See the recipe here.

Nike Training Club 

The Nike Training Club app includes expert-designed workouts that range from targeted training programs to energizing yoga glasses. It also offers nutrition tips and wellness guidance, all from Nike Master Trainers. Right now, the premium version of the Nike Training Club is free. Try It

Peloton

Peloton is currently offering a 90-day free trial of its Peloton app, which offers thousands of live and on-demand classes including cycling, running, yoga, meditation, and more. Sign up

No Weights? No Problem 

You don’t need state-of-the-art equipment or even weights to work out at home. Here are some ideas of everyday household items that you can use as weights for your workout. Read More

Shop for Groceries on Mercato 

Through Mercato, you can shop online from local specialty food stores and independently owned grocery stores, and have your groceries delivered to your home. Mercato is available in cities across the country. Shop Now

[halsteadproperty]

Take These Steps to Protect Your Home from Coronavirus 

The most important thing you can do right now to keep yourself and others healthy is to stay home as much as possible. 

Follow CDC guidelines on physical distancing and if you are able, get your groceries and takeout delivered.

Designate one person in your household to take care of errands to limit exposure. Ideally, this person should be younger and not immunocompromised. If you will be returning with groceries/supplies, set up a sanitizing station before you leave. This can be a designated area outside your home, in the garage, or on the floor inside your home. You can either lay garbage bags flat or place your supplies directly on the floor and then sanitize the area afterward. When you’re out, maintain a physical distance of at least—preferably more than—six feet from others. Carry hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes with you so you can wipe down surfaces like grocery cart handles. Do not touch your face. Wash your hands following CDC guidelines when you return home. Make sure to sanitize items like your keys, credit card, and wallet. Put your clothes in the hamper.

Place the bags/boxes in your designated sanitizing area. Disinfect items using disinfecting wipes or spray. Watch Dr. Sanjay Gupta’s video to see the sanitizing process he recommends. Throw out packaging and bags. Wash your hands when you’re done sanitizing. Wash your produce with water. Though COVID-19 is not a food-borne illness, there is a slim chance it can be passed by an infected person coughing/sneezing on produce. Wash your hands again.

Disinfect regularly touched surfaces in your home. These include: countertops, doorknobs, light switches, cupboard and cabinet handles, and appliances. If a surface is dirty, make sure to clean it regularly before disinfecting. Don’t forget about disinfecting remote controls, computer keyboards and mice, cell phones, and other electronic devices. Let all disinfected surfaces air dry. Make sure you’re not potentially cross-contaminating surfaces by reusing dirty sponges, cloths, or mops. Do laundry regularly and behave as if the dirty laundry is infected. Wash using a high temperature setting and wash your hands after handling the laundry.

[halsteadproperty]

Understanding the CARES Act

During this global coronavirus crisis, many Americans are facing unprecedented difficulties due to business closures and economic uncertainties. To help alleviate some of the financial burden, Congress just passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. 

The $2 trillion economic stimulus legislation will help many Americans, and I wanted to share some of the measures that might directly affect you or your loved ones.

Tax-paying Americans with annual incomes up to $75,000.

Those who make below $75,000 will receive $1,200. Married couples in this income bracket will receive $2,400, plus an additional $500 per child. Some who make between $75,000 and $99,000 will also receive a payment ranging from $50-$1,200 depending on their individual circumstances. You can calculate your own payment here.

Individuals receiving unemployment assistance.

These individuals will be given an additional $600 a week from the federal government. This additional amount will continue for four months. The unemployment assistance period will also be extended for an additional 13 weeks, both for new filers and existing recipients.

Self-employed people, freelancers, and contractors.

These individuals will now also be eligible for unemployment insurance. They will also benefit from the extended assistance period and extra $600 per week from the federal government.

Small businesses.

$350 billion of this stimulus bill will be dedicated to supporting small businesses affected by the pandemic. This will be in the form of emergency grants, six months of relief for existing loans, and a forgivable loan program.

In addition to these measures, the CARES Act will also provide assistance to public health institutions, food security programs, large corporations (which will have to pay the government back), and state and local governments. For more details on the CARES Act, take a look at this breakdown of the legislation by NPR as well as this article from Forbes, where I sourced the above information.

[halsteadproperty]

New York Is on PAUSE: Here’s What You Need to Know

Last weekend, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo introduced a 10-point “Policy that Assures Uniform Safety for Everyone,” referred to as PAUSE. The executive order, which is in effect as of March 22, aims to slow down the spread of coronavirus through a series of strict measures. 

The order will remain in place at least for the next few weeks, and possibly longer. Referring to PAUSE, Governor Cuomo said that “these are not helpful hints…these provisions will be enforced.” Here is what you need to know about the 10-point order:

All non-essential businesses must remain closed.

In an effort to avoid gathering and ensure as many people as possible stay home, non-essential businesses will be closed. 

Essential businesses and services that will remain open include grocery stores, pharmacies, healthcare providers, public transit, banks, mail and shipping services, cleaning and maintenance services, restaurants and bars (for take-out and delivery only), liquor and wine stores, and human service providers like food banks and shelters. Refer to this guidance from the NY state governmentto see a more comprehensive list of essential businesses that will remain open.

Non-essential gatherings of any size are canceled and postponed.

Following earlier closings of gathering places like movie theaters, event venues, gyms, and salons, this mandate temporarily bans gatherings of any size for any non-essential reason. This means postponing any parties or events, even in private spaces. 

In this time of social distancing and isolating, it might be tempting to invite close friends to dinner or see family members outside of your household. This kind of gathering accelerates the spread of the virus and is in direct violation of PAUSE. Instead, enjoy your time at home with these fun and socially responsible activities.   

Any concentration of individuals outside of their home is limited to essential service workers.

Not only are these the only types of gatherings allowed, but essential service workers are also expected to practice social distancing while performing their jobs.

When in public, individuals must practice social distancing of at least six feet.

It’s vital that you keep at least six feet of distance between you and other individuals when you are outside, whether you’re on a walk/run, at the grocery store, or picking up take-out.

Entities that provide essential services must facilitate social distancing.

Essential businesses and services will be expected to implement social distancing rules so that their employees remain safe.

Individuals should limit outdoor recreational activities to non-contact activities.

You are still welcome to take walks, jog/run, and do other non-contact recreational activities outside. But, it’s crucial that you keep a safe distance away from others and avoid touching objects. 

Once you get home, make sure to wash your hands properly, change clothes, and disinfect any objects you brought in.

Individuals should limit the use of public transportation.

While public transportation is an essential service and will continue to operate, you are urged to use it only when absolutely necessary. If you do need to use it, limit your exposure by keeping a safe distance away from others and avoiding touching surfaces (and washing your hands or sanitizing afterwards).

Sick individuals should not leave their home unless to receive medical care.

Additionally, a sick individual should only leave their home to receive medical care after a telehealth session/calling a medical professional to determine whether leaving home is in their best interest. 

If you are in a household with a sick individual, please keep your distance and be especially mindful of social distancing if you have to go out in public.

Young people should also practice social distancing.

It’s vital that young people self-isolate whenever possible and also practice social distancing at home and in public. Whether or not they have any symptoms of coronavirus, this segment of the population is likely to spread the virus to others, including those who are most vulnerable.

Use precautionary sanitizer practices.

Washing your hands according to CDC guidelines is the best way to protect yourself. In addition to this, you can use hand sanitizer when washing your hands is not an option. Also, make sure to sanitize surfaces and objects with isopropyl alcohol wipes.

Aside from the 10-point policy, other measures introduced as part of PAUSE include the following:

- Matilda’s Law: Named for Governor Cuomo’s mother, Matilda’s Law is an effort to protect New York’s most vulnerable, including those over 70, the immunocompromised, and those with underlying illnesses. 

The measure requires these New Yorkers to stay home unless they need to leave for emergency reasons. Family members or friends should avoid visiting unless there is an urgent need. Before visiting someone who is part of this population, you should pre-screen by taking your temperature and ensuring you have no flu-like symptoms. During any visit, all individuals, especially the vulnerable, should wear a mask and keep distance whenever possible. 

- A 90-day moratorium on residential and commercial evictions is now in place, joining an existing statewide freeze on mortgage payments.

- Given the current shortage of PPE for medical professionals (gloves, masks, and gowns), Governor Cuomo is asking PPE providers to sell products to the state. He is also encouraging any company with the appropriate equipment and personnel (clothing designers, for example) to begin manufacturing PPE products. The state will provide funding to businesses that are able to do so.

Additionally, if you as an individual have masks and/or gloves that you do not need, consider donating them to a local hospital or clinic.

Here are some resources where you can find more detailed information about coronavirus as well as PAUSE and what it means for New Yorkers:

The CDC’s Recommendations and Resources for Coronavirus Governor Cuomo Signs the “New York State on PAUSE” Executive Order Guidance on Which Businesses Are Essential New York Goes on PAUSE: Here’s What That Means (Gothamist) New York Issues a “PAUSE” On Nonessential Services and Gatherings (Curbed New York) City to Comply with “PAUSE” Program (AMNY)