Ways to make the most of self-isolation
I don’t want to make light of this situation. It’s devastating and affecting so many lives and livelihoods. However, if you are someone who has to self-isolate (as many of us are) then here are some ideas to help you keep in good spirits.
Read…like a lot!Catch up (on whatever it is that you’ve fallen behind on: emails, coursework, exercise, checking in on friends online, housework etc.)Learn something new: podcasts, TedTalks, YouTube, online learning platforms, etc.Quality time with those in your householdGentle, relaxing time (bath, face mask, nails, eyebrows, candles, Netflix)Exercise at home: in the garden, using household items for weights, yoga, dance etc.Eat well and intentionallyGet cozy with blankets, hot drinks, and fluffy socksPlant something in your gardenJournal your thoughtsRedecorate your spaceWrite something (blog, poetry, short story, novel, journal, memoir)Connect deeply with yourself (spiritually, inner world)
Connect with your kids and play!
Catch up on some needed rest
Rewatch and binge great shows and films: Avatar The Last Airbender, Harry Potter, Game of Thrones, Parks and Recreation, HIMYM, Friends and so on.
Have some discipline and actually read the books you already own for once! *cough, chough yeah, Siana, cough!*
Message and support friends during this hard timeWrite lettersScrapbookCook new foodsPlay video gamesKeep your brain active with puzzles and brainteaser gamesFamily quiz timeWatch or upload to YouTubeLearn a languageRevisit an old hobby or skill: painting, drawing, photography, interior design…Clean, declutter and tidy up your spaceGet organised and prepared for normal life again (get proactive!): travel plans, goal setting, financial plans, etc.Be more mindful and intentional about your spending, socialising, activity, and health
Here’s a link to Kalyn Nicholson’s list of 60 things to do (as she and many others have had the same idea about sharing tips!)
My personal “extra time inside” goals list:
Read as many of the books I own
Write my book (I have a new story idea that is in the very early stages so, with more free time, I’d like to work on this and perhaps get to finally actively write something this year!)
Write and perhaps share a poetry collection
Write a short story
Finish my OU module with a good grade (finishes the end of May)
Spring clean and revamp my space
Learn from my resources and the internet
Connect with my household
Get back into Yoga and meditation routinely and freely as needed
Cook some new meals
Journaling and self-reflection to connect with myself and my thoughts properly again
Good luck, stay safe.
It is better for everyone that we all practice social distancing. That we don’t go out as freely as we used to; only for the necessities. Help others where you can (and where appropriate).
Distance yourself from the elderly (your loved ones will miss you but their health comes first). And just be kind and don’t allow panic to push you over the edge. Don’t get distracted or drawn into the news and social media and the spreading of false information. Stay informed from appropriate sources.
Take care,
Sincerely,
S. xx
