We've all heard the advice- wash your hands, stay home, practice social distancing. But in a world where we are all use to moving so fast, this pressure to slow down can create boredom, making us stir-crazy, and even a little paranoid of those around us. I've gathered some ideas for how to keep yourself sane and mentally healthy while being forced to stay home for the next few weeks. (These ideas are especially helpful when you're stuck with family members for longer than you thought was possible).
Ideas for a stay-at-home quarantine.
1. Play board/card games
Board games and card games not only kill time but are a great way to get everyone involved and bring out competition. Whether it be clue, monopoly, sorry, or some poker. Try betting some 'rations' to make things more interesting.
2. Do yoga or meditation
Not only has yoga and meditation been proven to help your mental health but it's a great way to keep your lungs nice and healthy during this time when a virus targets them specifically. Yoga and meditation can help calm your mind while giving you an easy workout to keep your body and mind in check.
3. Join an online fun game
It could be animal crossing, sims, club penguin, or any other online interactive game. Not only will this keep you entertained for hours and days at a time, giving you a sense of purpose but it's another great way to stay connected with friends while practicing your social distancing.
4. Karaoke/ dance party with family
Singing and dancing are great stress relievers and throwing your own little dance party is a great way to distract yourself from the troubles of the outside world. Take the night to set up some karaoke and funky lights and get to dancing with your quarantine buddies. I guarantee after a few classic hits and your sister's tone deaf singing you'll forget all about the pandemic going on (even if it's just for a little bit).
5. Start a journal
This could be anything from daily thoughts, poetry, affirmations, or doodles. Just grab a note book and start expressing yourself in any creative way possible. You'd be surprised how relaxing it can be to zone out and dive into your own thoughts for a bit.
6. Read a book or listen to a podcast
This is a great time to get started on those reading goals. And if reading isn't for you try listening to an audio book or some podcasts. There's a lot of different knowledge out there in the world, take this chance to get informed with topics you find interesting. Also, diving into the world of a book or podcast is a great escape from reality and extremely calming. My suggestion is you check out Parcast's Serial Killer Podcast station.
7. Take your dog for a walk- but practice social distancing
You know how you always seem to never have enough time to walk the dog? Well here's a perfect excuse for you to get out of the house, get some fresh air, and make your furry pal happy. Check out local parks or simply go around the block for a quick walk. It doesn't matter how far you go, just know that your dog -and your mental health- will love you for it. Just make sure you keep your distance from other walkers while doing this.
8. Start a website or blog
Now this one is a little self-bias but hey, it worked to keep me sane in between working, why not try it during your quarantine? Wix.com provides easy, helpful guidelines to create any kind of website of your choice. Whether you're trying to sell your artwork, show off your photography, or create beautiful writing, this is the time to get a head start of your own personal ventures!
9. Organize your closet/clothes/room/anything
You're stuck at home for a while, and being in a dirty, unorganized room has been proven to hinder your mental health. Take this chance to get your sh*t together and organize your stuff. Your anxiety is probably already soaring, why add mental strain with more messes. Trust me, you'll thank yourself when it's done.
10. Pick up a new skill or hobby
It could be playing an instrument, editing photos or video, working on calligraphy or drawing, or mastering cooking. Pick a hobby and work at it during this time. You might come out two weeks later with a new skill that could help you score a job, ace a class, or better yourself in general.
11. Go through old files/photos on your phone and computer
Don't even try to lie, we all know the files on your laptop are an overwhelming mess. Take this time to get yourself organized, not just in real life but virtually too. Go through those old files and get rid of the junk. Delete old useless photos off your phone. Make room for all the new memories to come once this is over!
12. Learn some tiktok dances and try to go viral
After months of contemplating I finally got myself the app and even though it is super addicting it's a great way to keep yourself busy. There's a million ways to go viral, just be creative and try it out for yourself. I wouldn't be surprised if one of us ends up tiktok famous by the end of this. P.s follow me @youcancallmecarol
13. Plan a trip and save it for a brighter day
Some people might be eye-rolling at this one but its basic human psychology that we are usually happier people when we have something to look forward to so why not create an itinerary or fake trip planning document that you can use for a future trip once this all clears up- because one day it will.
14. Try to train your animal to do something cool
It could be your dog, your cat, your rabbit or bird. Who cares! It's been said that if you spend enough time training with an animal you can get them to learn just about anything. It took a woman about two weeks for her dog to learn a hand stand, what will you teach yours with this time?
15. Have a wine night and facetime some friends watching old bachelor seasons
Deprived of the bachelor? Netflix has released older seasons of the bachelor and what better time to review them than during this quarantine. ABC halted all of bachelor filming but that doesn't mean you can't shit on random girls with your friends every Monday! Join the Netflix watch party, bust out some wine, and throw out some insults with friends while practicing social distancing.
16. Practice your makeup and hair skills
Us girls might be stressing about the closings of hair and nail salons, but why not take this opportunity to save some money and practice your beauty skills yourself. Maybe we'll all come out of this looking a little better instead of like ogres. Plus, it's a great time waster. Try out new funky looks with your mom, sisters, or even your dogs nails.
17. Build a fort with your siblings
Let's throw it back to childhood games. Make a fun fort out of sheets and cardboard or chairs. Create a password to protect it against parents. Maybe you can even get fancy and install a snack and beverage area for your quarantine needs and pleasure.
Whatever it is you're doing to keep sane, have fun and don't let the stress of what's going on affect you too much. This could be a moment in history where we all come together by being a part. If we use this time to self-reflect and grow, continuing to learn and challenge ourselves, I guarantee we will come out stronger and more united than ever. Keep your head, stay the hell home, and wash those damn hands. We got this.
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