These days, it feels like it costs $20 to leave the house. It doesn’t have to be this way; there are many amazing things to do beyond the home that won’t cost you a cent.

Someone with agoraphobia, an anxiety disorder that has people afraid to leave environments they know or consider to be safe, might struggle to leave the house at all. In severe cases, the home might be the only environment they consider safe. The pandemic that saw us locked down at home hasn’t helped either.

Leaving the house and doing things in the big wide world has myriad benefits. The social interactions and connections that come with actively existing in society work to combat loneliness and promote community. It also means mental stimulation, keeping your mind sharp and delaying cognitive decline.

Staying at home all day often means very little physical activity. If you cannot leave the house, aim to get moving! Leaving the house helps you maintain health and mobility step by step. Who doesn’t love window shopping? The fresh air and sunlight will also improve your mood, weather-dependent, giving you a dose of vitamin D.

Life at home can become awfully monotonous, boring, and even depressive, and you might think that leaving home means losing your routine. But getting out and about can add structure to the day. Make an effort to leave once daily at a similar time to break your day up without letting it get away from you.

It’s also an opportunity to learn new skills and hobbies, which will further keep your mind jogged and encourage independence and self-sufficiency within you. One gains a sense of accomplishment from engaging in meaningful activities.

As for activities to do outside of the home that won’t cost a dollar, there are many to choose from. Do what works for you!

Taking a walk in the park or neighbourhood can be incredibly mindful and relaxing. Birdwatch or observe nature in local parks. Consider joining a walking club or even attending free fitness classes. Think yoga, tai chi, and other low-intensity yet high-reward activities that get your body moving. Go to the beach or lake for a scenic view and relaxation, too.

Get out there in your community! Attend community events like concerts and fairs, visit the public library for books and activities, and even volunteer at schools, hospitals, and other community areas. Visit a nearby church, mosque, temple, or other place of worship for spiritual engagement and community activities. You might wish to visit a local farmers’ market to enjoy fresh produce and socialise, or spend time in community gardens or help maintain a public garden.

Get creative by participating in a free art class or craft session at a community centre or by joining a local book club or discussion group. Free movie screenings, live performances, and free educational talks and workshops will also get your creative juices flowing.