A number of retailers, eateries and salons have been permitted to open with limited capacity, per Gov. Greg Abbott's orders. However, a number of Lake Travis-Westlake institutions such as yoga studios and libraries remain closed until at least May 18 due to COVID-19 concerns. Despite the lifting of regulations, there are still a number of virtual activities in place for residents who wish to stay at home.
Virtually tour the Contemporary Austin
The community is invited to tour The Contemporary Austin’s current exhibits virtually. The museum remains closed to the public, but video tours of current and past exhibits are made available for free on The Contemporary Austin’s website. A number of artist talks, educational resources, creative exercises and more can be accessed from the newly launched The Contemporary from Home site. 512-453-5312. www.thecontemporaryaustin.com
Free weekly meditation
Local health spa Serasana Bee Cave is offering free weekly meditation through an online platform. Instructors will also be leading 21 yoga classes per week at significantly discounted rates. Registration information and the class schedule can be found on the company’s website. 512-387-8000. www.serasana.com/beecave/
Virtual hikes along the Violet Crown Trail
Nonprofit organization The Hill Country Conservancy is utilizing its social media accounts to bring Austin’s outdoor spaces to a virtual audience. CEO George Cofer and a number of HCC team members will lead hikes through the Violet Crown Trail, providing a variety of ecological information along the way. The guided hikes can be found at no cost on the organization’s website and Youtube channel. 512-328-2481. www.hillcountryconservnacy.org
Check out a book from Spicewood Library
Spicewood Library is utilizing a free service through the virtual platform Overdrive to bring thousands of online books, magazines, audiobooks and videos to the community. Residents will need to download the application and submit a library card number to access the service. Spicewood Library is also running a takeout service for those who would rather read a physical book. The complete catalog of books can be accessed online, and orders can be placed over the phone or through [email protected]. The books can be picked up from the library’s front door and returned through the book bin. More information can be found on the library’s website. 830-693-7892. www.spicewoodlibrary.org
Local sermons
Lakeway Church is offering the community a number of recorded sermons through its website, featuring contemporary and traditional worship services. The sermons are led by Lakeway Church pastors and are available to all at no cost. All of the church’s worship services will be held virtually until further notice. 512-261-6331. www.lakewaychurch.org/sermons/
Online events at the Westbank Community Library
Traditionally, the Westbank Community Library offers a number of free monthly events, from yoga classes to senior living seminars. In light of social distancing, those free services have gone virtual. The library has a curated video playlist on its YouTube channel highlighting Eanes History Group sessions, how-to tutorials, educational conversations and more. 512-327-3045. www.westbanklibrary.com
Free Vinyasa yoga
Yoga & Goga at the Hill Country Galleria is offering free yoga sessions on its official Facebook page, featuring 35-minute Vinyasa Flow classes led by instructors. The community can continue to practice yoga while adhering to social distancing, though the studio’s featured baby goats are not included. 347-770-3996. www.goga.yoga.com
