Being stuck home right now during COVID-19, also known as the Coronavirus, is going to be a challenge for so many.
Besides it being boring, isolation can be a mental challenge for a lot of people.
While you have to take care of yourself, also think about others around you. Sometimes a quick phone call or text message can change someones day. Get a group chat going, video chat or join some active Facebook groups.
Here are a few things that you can do (not necessarily book related) during this potentially long haul.
1. Keep a schedule.
This may seem a little odd but it will help. Try and get up a relatively regular time (but of course sleep in now and then because you just can) and some days, put effort into how you look. Some of us may feel like wearing sweatpants every day (guilty) but trying to keep getting dressed now, doing your hair and makeup will at least let you feel better, You wear that tux or ballgown around the house because WHY NOT?!
2. Read new books.
Okay, one has to be book-related. We’re a book blog, come on! This is a fantastic time to read something new. Libraries are closed so this is that time to read that book you never could bring yourself to read, like a classic, or re-read an old favorite. It gives you a break from technology and you can go outside and do this to get some fresh air, which is really good for you!
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3. Learn a new language.
This is such a great time to learn something new. Places like Duolingo are amazing places to practice a language you know or pick up a new one. Maybe invest in Rosetta Stone (which is amazing) to become bi- or multi-lingual. Language apps are great to practice this language and get some social time in during this isolation.
4. Documentaries.
Sometimes the days can drag but a documentary will waste a few hours and you can learn some things in the process – even if it’s about Aliens (we won’t judge).
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5. Video chat with your friends.
This definitely isn’t as cool as it used to be but if you can’t get together with your friends you may as well try and see them. Make some food, get a good drink and some cozy clothes and video chat with them like you’re hanging out together. If you connect your device to a larger screen it may feel like you’re actually there.
6. Learn a new skill!
Like a new language, you could learn a new skill as well. Maybe it’s crafting, maybe it’s trying that guitar you always wanted to try, how to do a handstand or calligraphy. There’s a lot of great videos on YouTube as well as some places are offering free classes during this whole situation. It’ll pass time and you’ll have something incredible at the end of it all.
7. Journal.
Now this may seem a little crazy but I really recommend it. If you can’t talk with people a lot you can write out what you’re feeling. Sure, you can journal on your computer but when you write it out you really get to think and spend some time writing how you feel. It doesn’t have to be happy. You could say that you’re really struggling and just don’t feel great or that you absolutely love being stuck at home. You’ll be able to look back on it one day and remember how you kicked COVID-19’s butt.
8. Catch up on your shows.
I wouldn’t recommend binge watching just because there may be a long stretch and you want to make sure you have some good stuff to watch, but you can use this time to try a few shows you normally wouldn’t do.
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9. Write a letter.
As long as the post office is operational (which I hope it will continue to be) this is a great time to bring back letter writing. It gives you something to look forward to, you can practice lettering and calligraphy and just do something new.
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10. Go outside and get some fresh air.
Life tends to keep us inside as students or office workers so this is a great time to go outside. Take that conference call on the balcony, take some of your readings to your park if it’s still open (remember, social distancing!) or go into your garden. If you can’t do these things, open your window and just stick your head out for a little while. Make sure to get some fresh air and some sun if you can.
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11. Foster an animal if you can.
If you don’t own an animal, or want more, this is a great time to foster. Shelters are struggling, it’s nearly kitten season and you could always use a play-mate. It’s not permanent (but it could be if you want) and may help you along. If you have a landlord, make sure to talk to them and see if an exception can be made. Also make sure you’re fulling able for this and committed. It may only be a few months but remember that dogs have to be walked and cats have to have their litter changed.
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