The Covid-19 virus has impacted all of our lives in ways we honestly could never have imagined. Events are being canceled, schools are closing, and jobs are shutting down. Once the government recommended self quarantining I was feeling more stressed about what I was going to do sitting in my house for fourteen days than I was about the actual virus itself! Nevertheless, in order to keep my community safe, I’m acting as suggested and practicing social distancing and quarantining! In that time I’ve figured out a few strategies to keep myself from going absolutely stir crazy while I’m stuck in my house!
- Create a New Routine
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The thing I have found the most comfort in during my self-quarantine is creating a new and modified schedule for myself. With so much free time I had found myself simply binging Netflix and eating all of my snacks! By creating a new routine it brought back some structure to this seemingly never-ending span of time.
- Reorganize Your Space
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Because you’ll be spending so much time in your home it’s important to be able to have a space that is just your own, and that you feel comfortable in. Being cooped up for so long can make it hard to be around others, even the ones you love, so try creating a more relaxing and zen atmosphere within your bedroom. Try straightening up, lighting some candles, and vacuum! Make it a space that you would want to spend time in!
- Pick Up a New Hobby
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Is there something that you’ve always wanted to learn to do? Paint? Crochet? Cook? Now is the perfect time to do it! With all this free time you have the opportunity to learn something that you may never have had time to pursue!Â
- Clean Up
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Cleaning up is one of the more obvious suggestions, but putting your headphones in and dancing around while cleaning is one of the most relaxing things a person can do! Not only does it make your home more enjoyable to be in, but it also creates an environment where the virus can not survive.
- Spend Time with Family
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I know that everyone is pretty bummed about not being able to go back to school, but your family is grateful to spend this time with you no matter the circumstances that caused it! As the oldest of three sisters, I know it can be stressful spending every minute of every day with your family, but your loved ones are the only company that you have, and you should take advantage of it while you can!
- I Know This One’s Obvious, but STUDY!
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With most universities having switched to online it is important that you get ahead on your schoolwork! Online classes require a different amount of focus than in-person classes do, so if you take this time to decide how you’re going to study, figure out what new assignments are due, or just catch up on work in general, this is the perfect time killer!
- Have a Self Care Day
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You are about to be spending a lot of alone time with yourself, so make the best of it! Do a face mask, paint your nails, take a bath! You deserve to feel like your best self whether people are going to see it or not!
- Do Something You Haven’t Done in a While
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You have a lot of free time now! Do something that you’ve missed doing. If you used to enjoy painting, then paint! If you loved to read, then read! For me it was knitting. I haven’t knit anything in a couple of years and find that it isn’t something you easily forget! If there’s anything that you felt like you didn’t have time for anymore, now you do!
- Collect Items you May be Able to Donate!
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A lot of people have been going crazy in grocery stores without really taking other people into account. Make a box of things around your house that you can spare: canned food, aspirin, baby wipes, toilet paper, etc. Anything that a person may no longer be able to easily access, and check if anyone in your neighborhood is in need! Giving back to your community will raise your spirits in no time!
- Exercise
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I definitely saved the best for last. This one is the perfect excuse to get some fresh air and alone time! Going for a quick run around your neighborhood gets you outside, and helps with the feeling of restlessness that starts to set in around day three! Plus, it’s a great way to make sure you stay healthy during the quarantine!
Quarantine can be stressful, but I hope that these few suggestions help make it a little easier for you! Make sure to wash your hands, be safe, and keep busy!