No work? No school? Everything’s closed? You may be thinking, “now what?” Rest assured knowing I’m about to give you quite the list of activities to do to keep you busy, entertained, happy, healthy, and mentally sane. During this unprecedented time, we still have options. We need to stay physically, mentally, and emotionally strong. Let’s get started on how to conquer all this free time we have.
First, get the necessary things done! Clean and disinfect your space. Whether it’s your office, your room, your kitchen, or entire home. Do it. Start those loads of laundry you’ve been procrastinating on! You will feel so much better once it’s all folded and put away. Another fun idea- clean out your pantry, fridge, and spice cabinet. Who knows, you might even end up matching your Tupperware with their rightful lids. You could also clean out your closets, dressers, and junk drawers. Donate whatever you don’t use or need! In a time when everything is uncertain, there are more people in need than ever.
Focus on yourself. Use this time to relax, reboot, reset. This is a great time for self-reflection, re-evaluating your priorities, and aligning yourself with your goals. This is the time to focus on your hobbies and things you enjoy. It is also the time to try something new! Try yoga, meditation, painting, cooking, reading, writing, anything! Anything that sparks joy in you, do it. Make a list of what you are grateful for, the list may be longer than you realize. Go outside, get some sun, enjoy the fresh air. If you are able to, try going to a local park or nature trail. Take your shoes off and ground! Take in all the amazing benefits nature has to offer. Going outside and going for a walk will make you feel better physically and mentally. Also, take advantage of those afternoon naps.
Focus on your loved ones. Simply watching a movie or playing a board game, coloring or reading together, this time is precious. Write letters to friends and family. Whether the letters be meaningful or goofy, they will be appreciated. If you are unable to be with certain people at this time, call them! A simple phone call can make someone’s day! Ask them how they’re doing, what they ate that day, did they get a good night’s rest, heard any good jokes lately? It could be anything, just reach out.
Most importantly, keep your mind right and stay productive. Be intentional with your time. Challenge yourself to maintain a normal routine. Don’t sleep in and stay up late every day. Set your alarm, make a healthy breakfast, get dressed, and make your bed. Make a list of things you want to accomplish every day, or each week, and achieve those goals. Always wanted to learn a new language? Start now. Perhaps teach your children or friends how to change a tire, or to do taxes. Helping others is a great way to boost your mood. Another helpful way to stay clear minded is to journal or blog, exercise your brain. Write about anything and everything, just get it out. Physical exercise is another truly beneficial way to boost serotonin and improve your mood. You don’t have to work out extraneously, just enough to get the blood flowing!
All things considered; this is not a negative time. This is a time to gather yourself, your thoughts, your emotions, and re-balance your life. Allow yourself this time to relax and reset, all while remaining functional and whole. You deserve to spend time doing things you enjoy with people you enjoy. Embrace this time and use it to your advantage. Stay open-minded, stay positive, and stay healthy. Together, we will get through this.