So you’ve joined the masses to do the responsible thing and practice social distancing to help the world combat COVID-19? First of all, thank you. When you stay home, you minimize the risk of spreading the disease even if you’re healthy and would be able to recover. With your events being canceled and normal daily activities being majorly altered, staying active physically, mentally, and emotionally is key for practicing healthy social distancing.
If I weren’t still in graduate school, I would 100% be taking everyone’s advice to catch up on the enjoyable reading I’ve put off for the last 3 years. I normally do my “reading” via audiobook while I commute, but since I’m working from home full-time I have no commute. As I am still working on finishing assigned reading for my last class weekend (March 27-28!), I can’t think of straining my eyes on a book during my entertainment/leisure time right now. Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE books and gaining new knowledge from literature, but it’s not where I am at right now in terms of fun. Thus, I’ve compiled a list of activities you can do during social distancing that don’t involve reading:
Learn to cook a new recipe--You likely just stocked up on groceries because you’re staying home for a while. Look-up a new recipe and master it. Might I suggest a little website called Pinterest?
Create pinboards for everything--Sometimes the best way to beat the feeling of being stuck is by dreaming about something fun for the future. Build pinboards for places you’d like to travel, crafts you’d like to attempt, or at-home workouts you can do from your living room.
Stay active--There are so many ways to stay in shape while at home. There are yoga classes on YouTube and some even on Amazon video. See above regarding Pinterest resources. Instagram is also an abundant resource of fitness coaches and trainers who often share about workouts you can do. The American Heart Association suggests getting 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, which equates to a minimum of 22 minutes per day.
Become a penpal--Use this time to send messages to your friends and loved ones the old fashioned way by writing letters and cards.
Plant a garden--Spring is upon us and there is nothing better than cooking with herbs and veggies you grew yourself! Residences of all sizes (apartments included!) can be the home to some new green friends. Old containers (like jars and cans) are great sustainable ways to reuse materials to be homes for new life. A window sill or patio or anywhere with sunlight, a little potting soil, and some water is all you need otherwise! There are seed options and other supplies available on Amazon or you can place an online order for pick-up at your nearby Lowe’s or Home Depot.
Do your civic duty--Complete the Census if you’ve received your online access code in the mail. Register to vote if you haven’t yet. Research candidates and platforms for your local and state elections. Write a letter to your elected officials regarding a community concern (that isn’t Coronavirus) or write in their support.
Foster relationships via video or phone call--Text that friend you haven’t chatted with in a while and set up a time to video chat or have a call.
Learn a language--There are numerous free apps and podcasts that can help you start learning a new language. Duolingo and Drops are two of my favorite free options. Rosetta Stone also offers a paid, life-time unlimited lifetime subscription.
Take up a craft--There are tons of tutorials online through YouTube and Pinterest for creating crafts. Candlemaking is an easy one to take on and will add to your aromatherapy practices. Find one you’re interested in and order the supplies online through Amazon or for pick-up at your local craft store. Once you’ve created some new masterpieces, send them to your penpal.
Clean out your drawers, closet, and linen closet for items to donate--I use the 6-month rule--If I haven’t worn it in the last six months or I can’t see myself wearing it in the next 6 months, I donate the item. Same goes for linens and blankets. Animal shelters are always in need of blankets and sheets for dogs, cats, and other furry friends.
Take an online class--Stackskills and Skillwise offer affordable online classes in a variety of topics. I am enrolled in a class on coding and a project management course right now that I’m hoping to spend more time with in the next few weeks.
Update your professional documents and online presence--Even if you aren’t job searching, go give your resume/CV an update to add your current role and any recent training you’ve completed. Send it to a friend or colleague to review. Do the same thing for your LinkedIn profile.
Complete some puzzles--I’m a big fan of crossword puzzles, but jigsaw puzzles can keep you occupied for awhile as well!
Color--It’s not just for kids anymore! Coloring can be incredibly therapeutic and help reduce stress. I like to complete a page or two while watching shows. You can find great adult coloring book options on Amazon or even find some free downloads you can print at home.
Build an empire--Have you always had a dream to build a business or grow your current one? Spend this time drafting business plans and proposals. Even just writing it down is taking a step towards your goals.
After all this COVID19 calms down and I’ve graduated, please send me your book recommendations. I promise I’ll read for fun again one day. Until then, take care of yourselves, y’all!
