As the world tackles the curbing of the coronavirus outbreak, our lives have been altered in an unprecedented way. Quarantine and social distancing have become a part of our daily vocabulary, our favorite sporting events have been cancelled, we have been asked to work from home/ attend online classes and our travel plans have been indefinitely postponed. It may have only been a few days at home but already you are running low on Wi-Fi, you are sick of social media, you fear your eyesight is deteriorating and you are not sure how much longer you can survive this. But do not worry because we have come up with 10 things you can do, not just to keep yourself occupied but to help you really enjoy this period. So, take a break from your phone and keep yourself physically and mentally active while you remain a responsible citizen.
1. Wander around in your neighborhood
No matter how long you may have lived in your area, the chances are that you have not explored it. What better time than now? Take a stroll around your neighborhood and be surprised at what you discover or what adventures await you. And if you are unable to do so because of the situation don’t let that stop you either. Go out to your balcony/rooftop/garden with a cup of your favorite beverage and enjoy the view, the sounds of birds and get lost in nature.
2.Relive your past adventures
A little nostalgia never hurt anyone. Why not start on that scrapbook you have been meaning to make of your last trip? Whether it’s an e-scrapbook, a photo collage, a travel journal with the addition of memorabilia or anything you have wanted to make for so long but just not had enough time, now is your opportunity to make it come true. You may not be able to travel on a plane right now, but you definitely can relive the last time you did.
3. Spend time on your hobbies
With the usual daily rush and packed schedules we rarely have time for hobbies in our routine. And no, hobbies are not just for children. So during this time rediscover what you really enjoy. Paint that picture you have been visioning, write that song/thought in a journal, spend some time singing, solve a jigsaw puzzle or even start one of those adult coloring books that have been collecting dust the past few months. Hopefully once you find what you really enjoy you will be able to make time in your schedule for it once things get back to normal.
4. Learn a skill or two
What better way to be productive during this time than learning a few life skills? Changing a flat tyre, jumpstarting a car or gardening are a few that can really prove to be useful in the long run. For those of you who do not enjoy this, try experimenting with your camera or an editing software. It could come in handy the next time you travel. And for those of you whose interest has not been sparked yet, why not attempt to master the Rubik’s cube?
5. Keep in touch with your friends
Whether you are an introvert or an extrovert socializing is a big component of our lifestyle. It is almost unnatural for us to be away from social interaction for a long period of time. And if we aren’t aware of this it may take a toll on our mental health. Luckily for us we can catch up with our friends even though we are at home via the many social media apps that are available to us. The app ‘Houseparty’ even allows you to play games with your friends while on video chat. Do whatever it takes to make sure you socialize while you practice social distancing.
6. Remain physically active
With the change in routine our usual workout schedule has also taken a hit. And what makes it worse is that this work from home routine has resulted in you sitting down all day and constantly snacking. Even though your gym is unavailable right now, it is important for your physical and mental health that you remain physically active. Even if working out was not in your regular schedule, it is important to note that your physical activity has reduced considerably. So boost your immune system by either a dance routine, jumping rope or going for a jog.
7. Challenge your mind
Scrolling on Instagram the entire day could make you feel like you have lost a few brain cells. Going back to work/class after this long period of being a couch potato will be tough unless you keep your mind active and challenged. There are a few online courses that are made free during this time and since there is no payment required you can merely learn for the sake of learning. Class central and Coursera are two of the many websites that make this possible. Another way to keep your mind active is by learning a new language or by polishing your second/third language. Apps like ‘Duolingo’ and ‘Drops’ can make this fun and it might even help you out the next time you travel.
8. Make your to-do list shorter
That long list of to-dos just keeps getting longer doesn’t it? This is a perfect time to catch up on the chores around your house, clean your washroom, wash the car, do your laundry, arrange that cupboard and maybe even experiment with cooking. And once you are done with that take on your to-watch and to-read lists. All those books that you have accumulated throughout the years will be interesting to get through. And I am sure there are many Oscar nominated movies you would like to watch.
9. Family time
Although being stuck at home with your family may not be the ideal situation for some, maybe you could take this time to talk to your parents and grandparents. Ask them how they feel and listen to some of their childhood memories/stories. Or play a game of monopoly with them and teach them a few of your favorite card games. And if you are not with them right now, call them and have a meaningful chat. Most people seem to be quite free these days and would appreciate the company.
10. ‘ME’ time
And this may be the most important of them all. Why wait till your birthday or the end of the year for self-reflection? Use the quiet weeks ahead to spend some time with yourself. Are there any aspects in your life that you would like to improve? Any toxic relationships that you want to let go of? Are you happy in your job/university? Use this quarantine to spend quality time with yourself.
The above 10 things will not only keep you mentally and physically challenged and active but would also provide you with a great answer to the question everyone is going to be asking at the end of this period: “How did you spend your quarantine?”
