Things To Do When You're Bored!

Besides eating, you can do some useful and effective ways to take away bordome or when your life gets weary.

MID-AFTERNOON SLUMP

• Make A Plan It may seem like an odd move, but it's best to plan your dinner during an afternoon break, says Suzanne Farrell, a spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association. "Most people have trouble with dinner. If you don't have a plan when you come in the door, you're likely to eat whatever's in sight."
• Play Games Online games keep your hands busy and away from food. No computer access? Work on a crossword puzzle.
• Tea Up Have a big cup of tea.

LATE-NIGHT CRAVINGS

• Do Some Hands-on Pampering Give yourself a manicure to keep your hands distracted. Or make a homemade face mask: Mash half a banana, then mix in two tablespoons of yogurt and one tablespoon honey. Apply to your face, let it work its magic, then rinse off after 15 minutes.
• Picture This Create an online photo album to share with family and friends.
• Sew Simple Keep little sewing projects nearby when you're watching your favorite shows. Knitting works well too.

LAZY WEEKENDS

• Get Out "If you don't have any plans, sticking around the house will make you eat all day," says Farrell. Get out of the house and take a walk.
• Make It Over Get up and rearrange your furniture for a quick room do-over. Or try perking up your bookshelf by rearranging books by color.
• Organize Tackle a small organizing project—towels in the closet, files, shoes—anything other than the pantry.
• Be Animal-friendly Take the dog for a walk and get in some good exercise, or brush the cat to keep your hands busy. When all else fails, let the cat fall asleep on your lap so you can't get up and go to the fridge!