In light of everything that is happening with the coronavirus, many people are self-isolating. If you are in this situation, first of all, thank you for being selfless enough to protect others by slowing down the spread of the disease. And second, chances are you have more free time now. So today I am sharing with you different things that you can do when you have more time on your hands. Also, it’s a hard time for everyone right now so be kind and spread some positivity.
Build a pillow fort
Nothing like tapping into your inner-child and building a pillow fort with your family or flatmates. If you're stuck at home, might as well have a comfy place to chill in. Spruce it up with some fairy lights for a Pinterest worthy fort!
Call someone
Having more time on your hands means that negative feelings such as loneliness and anxiety can come up more often. Don't stay alone with these feelings and call someone you care about. There is nothing nicer than calling someone you haven't seen in a while and catching up. If you can, video-call them as that helps you feel more connected.
Clean your home
Time for a spring clean, my dear reader! Start with the kitchen and move your way through every room in your home.
Cook and/or bake
Cooking and baking can be really therapeutic. If people haven't panic-bought everything, you are bound to find a few ingredients to make something homemade and (hopefully) delicious. Don't be afraid to experiment a little. You might make up a new family-favourite!
Create a little garden
Plants have so many qualities. I only own plants that don't need too much TLC because I really don't have a green thumb - and I keep forgetting to water them, whoops! However, getting a new plant or creating yourself a little garden on your balcony or a windowsill will give you something to do and take care of. There is also something so soothing about sitting amongst plants, isn't there?
Do a puzzle
Puzzles are amazing. They will occupy you for days or even weeks. Set the puzzle up in a communal area. That way, whenever someone passes by, they can have a go at it for a little while. You will be amazed by how therapeutic it is! There are so many puzzles you can choose from nowadays so you are bound to find one that you will enjoy.
Film a movie
Have you ever watched an old video of yourself, when you were a child for example? There is something magical about watching old tapes, so why not film one now that you will later show your kids and grandkids? It can be great fun to create a proper at-home movie, or if you're not feeling like Steven Spielberg, just film random acts of daily life.
Get your pencils out
Colouring books have made a comeback and they can be extremely relaxing to do. So whip out your colouring pens and pencils and have fun! You can also doodle or draw if you'd enjoy that more.
Have a movie marathon
No better time to have a movie marathon than when you're stuck indoors. Choose a movie category (franchise, rom-com, comedy, stand-up, your favourites, etc) and make some popcorn!
Learn a dance
In the age of TikTok, people seem to be learning dances all day long. Learning a choreography is a lot of fun, though! So why not put on a video on Youtube, on TikTok (if you must) or on JustDance (also available on Youtube) and learn a dance. It's a workout and fun all in one.
Learn a new language
I use Duolingo and actually love it. The lessons are short and sweet and don't take up too much of your time. You can do as many as you like, for free! And they have quite a few languages to choose from.
Learn a new skill
Whether it be knitting, crocheting, baking, origami, photography... now's your time to learn how to do it!
Listen to a podcast
Podcasts are incredible. There are so many to choose from and you can do other things while listening to one, such as cleaning! I recommend The Debrief Podcast, The Health Code and Deeper with the Dolan Twins.
Paint
I had forgotten how soothing painting is until I picked it up again a while ago. If, like me, you are a shit painter, do not worry! Paint by numbers will be your best friend. No painting skills needed and you actually feel like Picasso - well I do, at least.
Play board games
Remember the good old days when phones weren't a thing and you'd have game nights? Well, it's time to bring them back! So grab your favourite board games and have some fun. For an even better experience, don't have your phones with you! If you are alone right not, video-call someone and play together through the camera.
Play your favourite music
Blast your favourite music (at a reasonable volume and time of day) and dance and sing your heart out like it's nobody's business!
Read
Books are amazing. They help learn new things, wind down or work on yourself. If you don't know what to read, check out my post on book recommendations!
Start on your passion project
Have you always wanted to create a Youtube channel or start your own blog or business? Whatever it might be, now's the time to start that project that you've been putting off for so long due to "lack of time".
Support local/small businesses
In these uncertain times, it's important that we stick together. So support your local and small businesses. I'm currently working with a local photographer I know to help me make a new cover photo for this blog. There are many ways you can help these businesses out online, either by buying something or by sharing their social media.
Work-out from home
Being stuck at home can make many feel lazy and fall into the habits of a couch potato. I know I am guilty of that. So create a routine for yourself and work out a few times a week for half an hour at least. You will feel so much better.
So here we have it, 20 things that you can do if you have got the free time. These uncertain times with the coronavirus can be stressful and scary but remember that you are not alone. We will get through this together. Until then, stay at home, stay safe and stay positive. See you next Sunday!
Yours truly,