The Coronavirus pandemic has officially flipped most of our lives upside-down (yes, yes, excluding the introverts, who just found a new term for their daily lifestyle, aka quarantine). It’s been several weeks since non-essential workplaces and schools that have been temporarily closed, and many are still settling into what’s become a new normal of social distancing. People around the world have developed new ways to stay connected and still have fun – and adhere to public health guidelines.
So, to help you in your quarantine journey, we’ve compiled a list of suggestions on how you can still stay connected with your friends, entertain yourself, and enhance productivity. Forget the cliché Netflix binge and try on something new from the following.
Number one on my list is – Doing what you’ve always wanted to. It could be something that you are passionate about, but your 9-6 schedule wouldn’t let you do otherwise. Right from creating your first YouTube channel to writing a blog, exercising or even redecorating your house. Whatever it may be, believe me, this is the golden opportunity that may not knock on your door again – so make the most of it and start today! It’s exactly what I am doing, looking at the bright side of the situation and working on my website.
Baking/Cooking
Yes, quarantine has sure brought out the chefs in everyone. With many people no longer commuting to work, there’s plenty of time in hand for you to visit your kitchen. From easy to make recipes to leveraging your pantry staples to a delicious meal, there’s so much information floating around various social media platforms, to help you. If you’re a beginner, worry not, as there’s always a first for everything. And for all you know, there might be a chef inside you who’s been waiting to be discovered by you.
Gardening
Love plants? Love gardening? Well then, get your pots, seeds, soil and get planting. In fact, with the lockdowns and restrictions to being outdoor, now’s your time to create your mini garden at your home. Plant basil leaves, thyme, rosemary, or even flowers, fruits and veggies. Afterall, there’s no better ingredients than your homegrown produce.
Fun Activities for The Kids
This might be the most difficult time for those with kids, and working from home with them can be both challenging and daunting. Why not keep them busy with an activity, and motivate them into doing it by offering the winner a prize in the end. Get them involved in various age-appropriate activities. Host a play-doh competition for the younger ones, where they create their favorite cartoon character, and get the older ones involved in the house chores and cooking. It will not only keep them distracted but will also keep them entertained, especially during study breaks. Or host a spelling competition to improve their skills.
Video Call and Play Online Games with Your Friends
With several video calling apps being unblocked, you and your friends can get together virtually and enjoy just like you’ll did before. Catch up on each other’s lives, or play games online such as scrabble, psych or the recently trending Ludo.
Learn A New Language/Skill
Inspired by your favorite Korean movies or the trending Spanish music? Always wanted to learn the language? What are you waiting for? The best part is, you can learn it from the comfort of your couch or bed. Also, Duolingo is the app for you! It’s a total life-saver as its free to download and use. Additionally, if you’ve been meaning to learn an instrument, now is also the time for it! So, put away your laziness and make use of the time given to you.
Face and Hair Masks
A little self-pampering never hurt anyone, right? So, take care of your skin and hair by treating it to a mask that’ll keep it nourished, healthy and glowing. Your skin and hair will definitely thank you for it. Especially, if you don’t have a regular skin care routine.
By Ray D’silva.
Instagram: @hungray18
