By Danae Reid
The world is in a frenzy at the hands of the coronavirus pandemic, and rightfully so. Countless jobs have shut down indefinitely, grocery stores have been ransacked, and people are at a loss about what to do next.
The virus — known as COVID-19 — and the restrictions mandated by local government officials to help slow its spread have caused a great deal of uncertainty, thus leading us to isolate and practice social distancing when we do venture out.And while not everyone has taken heed to the aforementioned orders, many of those who have are trying to figure out ways to entertain themselves during this lock down.
If you are one of those people that have found yourself at a loss regarding everyday activities, here’s a list of things to consider:
1. Relax and rest: Enjoy this downtime. Often, we crave a break, yet don’t know what to do with it when we have it. Take this time to get the much needed rest that you deserve.
2. Stream some of your favorite television shows: Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, etc. are always uploading new content.
3. Work on that side project that usually gets thwarted because of your full-time job: After a long day of work, many of us just want to settle in, thus allowing many of our personal projects to fall by the wayside! This is the perfect time to capitalize on your dreams and goals! Allow yourself to find the creative boost you’ve been looking for.
4. Pick up that book that you’ve been neglecting to finish: Like our personal projects, sometimes our current reads can get placed on the backburner… Pick up that book that you’re so close to finishing and finish!
5. Declutter your home and gear up to get rid of/donate the items you no longer want: Being stuck at home is a great way to sift through what’s important and what’s not. The virus will have a lot of lasting monetary effects on many of us, so donate what you can to those in need or consider selling some things to put extra money in your pocket!
6. Pick up a new hobby: (knitting, painting, crochet, needlepoint, sewing, etc.) … YouTube is great for learning new skills: New hobbies are always fun and a great way to pass the time. Who knows, you might find something that you really love.
7. Write in your journal/blog: There’s a lot of anxiety and uncertainty surrounded by this virus. Sometimes writing your feelings can be a great release. You may realize you have a lot to say.
8. Rearrange your room. It’s a great time to do something fresh and new: Some say that you should rearrange your room on occasion in order to spice up your life and get motivated. If it’s something you’ve been thinking about, but didn’t have the time to do, give it a try!
9. Create a vision board for what you hope to accomplish in the next nine months: 2020 has been quite the doozy, but I believe that it’ll get better. Creating a vision board for what you wish to happen with the rest of the year may provide the hope, motivation, and encouragement that you may need.
10. Spend time with those you care about: At times like this, it’s important to let those you care about, know that you care about them.
11. Apply for new jobs if you’re feeling unfulfilled in your current position: It’s easy to find excuses as to why you can’t apply for a new job. Now is the perfect time to do so with no distractions.
12. Meditate: Meditation is a great way to release stress and get in tune with yourself. If you’re unsure of how to do it, there’s countless guided mediation practices on YouTube!
13. Listen to your favorite music: Because, why not?
14. Take a walk or go for a hike: Even though we’re encouraged to isolate ourselves as much as possible, we are still able to go outside if we proceed with caution. Staying in the home all day makes cabin fever very likely, so get out and get some fresh air if you can!
15. Do some planting in the home or in the yard: Plants are said to bring joy and add value to our lives.
16. Have a family game night: What’s a better way to get to know your family than to play some games? Family game night is fun and because it’s in a controlled environment, you are less likely to contact any illness.
17. Reach out to those that you love
18. Go for a drive to clear your mind: See number 14.
19. Take a nice warm, candle lit bath: See number 12.
20. Make a list of things you’re grateful for: We all need some positivity today! Kick start your own by making a list of the things you’re still able to be grateful for even in this midst of this epidemic.
I hope this list has provided some help ideas and tips to keep you occupied during this trying time. Please stay safe and take all necessary precautions as we figure out what to do next and try to navigate our new lives as a result of this epidemic.
Disclaimer:
The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the article belong solely to the author, and not necessarily to the author’s employer, The Philadelphia Sunday SUN, the author’s organization, committee or other group or individual.
Leave a Comment