The governments across the globe has imposed strict lockdown measures to protect the public from the coronavirus pandemic. People have been ordered to stay in their homes unless they're buying food, exercising, helping a vulnerable person, or (in some cases) going to work. In millions of homes across the globe this very minute, parents, dog owners and people living away from their close ones are struggling like never before to keep their kids and pets occupied and to stay in touch with their families whilst worrying about their jobs and coping with depression due to the lack of outdoor activities and 'Social Distancing".
Luckily there are plenty of things to do for entertainment and relieve yourself of the stress while you're stuck inside. We have listed a few of the things one can do during these trying times.
1. Learn a language
There are plenty of apps that help you learn a language for free. Download one, and spend 30 minutes a day teaching yourself how to speak French, Spanish, German, Japanese - or whatever language takes your fancy.
2. Couch to Workout
Keep active by downloading a home workout app. Learn Zumba, practice Yoga or even spot jog. Just make sure that you stay active and maintain a two metre distance from other people if you're out running.
3. Start a virtual book club
You might not be able to meet up in person, but you could organise a virtual book club with your friends and family. Whether you all read the same book or just share recommendations, having a regular video call will help you feel connected.
4. Donate to your local state or central relief funds
Charity begins at home. Make sure you donate and help each other and the community in these difficult days. There are lots of organisations who are also actively getting involved in helping people and animals alike.
5. Dig out an old favourite
Watch a film that you used to love, binge an old TV series from the first episode, or get stuck into a game that you haven't played since you were a teenager. Now's the time to take a trip down memory lane. It's a great way for families to spend quality time with each other.
6. Take a free online course
Ivy League colleges in the USA and other universities across the globe are offering free courses online. You can take anything from Buddhism and Modern Psychology, to The Global Financial Crisis, to one that's just called 'Success'.
7. Clean out your wardrobe
Try on all your clothes, and bag up any that you don't want, or that don't fit.
You can't take them to a charity shop at the moment, but once lockdown is lifted it can be your first job.
8. Phone a friend
Phone an elderly neighbour who might be feeling lonely, a relative who you haven't spoken to in a while, or even just a friend who you ordinarily would only see in the pub.
Many people will be feeling isolated during this period of social-distancing, and keeping in touch is important for our mental health.
9. Spend time with your Children
Take time out of your usual busy, strange lives at the moment, by doing something like cooking, crochet or colouring in with your children. That’s a fantastic thing to be doing together, and it will go such a long way. Now is also a really good time to teach children things you want to be done. Not all lessons need to be academic – they can be life lessons we want our children to learn as well. Even how they should fold their clothes, mop up or vacuum. Take an hour out and show them how you want them to do it. Usually, life is very fast, and we have no time for this type of teaching. But they are invaluable skills.
10. Spend time with your Pet/s
Give your pet the much needed attention they always crave for, whilst you're busy with work and other activities. Involve your pet in your day to day activities, snuggle, paying attention to their grooming and even teaching them new tricks. These are some of the best ways to bond with them.
Above all, Start planning for your next Holiday! Once situation stabilises, you can just start packing your bags for the next adventure. Start making a bucket list of places you'd like to visit. Segregate them according to the type, like Nature trips, Skiing trips, Jungle Safari trips, etc. That way you can organise it according to each category and is also a more disciplined approach.
ALSO, JUST RELAX - This is a stressful and worrying time for many, so don't put any pressure on yourself to make the most of your time stuck indoors. By following government advice and staying at home, you're saving lives.