While it can be quite relaxing to practice warranted self-isolation, it’s not nearly as fun when one is being forced to do it. It’s been years since a pandemic like COVID-19 has swept the states, and with relatively no idea when this issue will be resolved, many Americans aren’t sure what to do with themselves during this docile time. Here are five things you can do to keep yourself busy while social distancing:
- Paint
Yes, paint, even if you aren’t good at it. According verywellmind.com, art therapy integrates psychotherapeutic techniques with the creative process to improve mental health and well-being. Painting can help relieve anxiety, depression, emotional difficulties, and stress by allowing the artist to focus on the images at hand and nothing else. This can also act as a great way to pass time.
- Start a new show or movie
Mostly everyone in quarantine is already doing it. Streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, or Disney + all have a plethora of content you can watch from your phone, TV or laptop through monthly subscriptions. If you’re on a tight budget, simply google afdah.tv to watch newly released movies for free instead. Get creative with it too; set up a projector if you have one, pop some popcorn, and make it a family affair. There’s nothing like being able to watch a show or movie you’ve been dying to see.
- Self-care
Being stuck in the house all day can take a huge toll on physical, mental and emotional health if you let it. Self-care can easily help to combat that. Use this time to meditate, create a new skincare regimen, try some new hairstyles, or give yourself a mani-pedi. Perhaps catch up on any sleep you’ve missed out on because of work or school. Practice anything that will help sustain your self-confidence and overall happiness.
- Do that thing you said you were gonna do, but never did.
Whether you wanted to start a blog or a YouTube channel, apply for an internship, or re-arrange your room, now would be the time to do it. Don’t spend your days completely engrossed in your favorite Netflix show, as addicting as it may be. Work on things that could benefit you in the long-run.
- Prepare for when things get better
Though the public is unsure about when everyone will finally be able to go back to their normal lives, having something to look forward to is always exciting. Try online shopping for a new wardrobe if you can or start making plans for when you see your friends again. For college students, prioritize registering for your classes and don’t wait until the last minute despite it being easy to forget.
Stay vigilant during these uncertain times. As the world adjusts to this new normal of restricted living, keep in mind that overcoming times of crisis is a marathon, not a sprint.