Hands up if it still hasn’t sunk in that you’re currently living through a pandemic. And that that said pandemic has resulted in you having to stay indoors for the unforeseeable future. While we’re all trying to practice social distancing and self-isolating to slow the spread of the coronavirus, we’re being faced with a different kind of enemy- boredom.
Whether you’re doing this alone or having to stick it out with family or roommates. Or if you have an abundance of time or working remotely, here are 11 things to do to help make this time a little easier- and hopefully help you come out on the other side a more talented, chilled and organised person.
Spend some time practising your hobby
Since lockdown started I’ve been spending a lot more time baking and painting. Hobbies are great because they offer a distraction and bring you some much-needed joy. Don’t have a hobby? Well, now is the perfect time to get one, try to think of something that is fun and relaxing.
READ MORE: 9 Super-Easy Midday Activities That’ll Help You Get Into The Work-Life Groove At Home
Learn a new skill
Firstly, we’re literally living during a pandemic, so by no means are you required to be productive or dedicate this time to coming out of quarantine a new and improved individual. But for some people, learning a new skill can offer a challenge and a distraction. If you want to learn a new language, try an app like Duolingo or learn all about digital marketing using Google’s learning centre. They are loads of free resources on the internet that can teach you just about anything.
READ MORE: The 29 Best True Crime Documentaries You Need To Watch After Netflix’s “Tiger King”
Have a solo dance party
Confession; this morning I wasn’t feeling particularly happy, so I forced myself out of bed, grabbed my headphones and danced to B52’s Love Shack. Did it solve my problems? No, but by the end of it, I was smiling and felt ready to tackle my day. If you find yourself feeling bored or lacking energy, get up and have a quick dance and I swear you’ll feel a lot happier. Even if it’s just flailing about, let loose and have fun!
Try a new recipe
Guilty of having the same ol’ pasta dish five days in a row? Well, why not kick your culinary skills up a notch by trying a new recipe. Try one of these five delicious lockdown recipes that won’t require you go to the shops or if you’re craving something sweet, make these yummy vegan chocolate cereal bars instead.
Do something for charity
If you’ve got the skills to knit or crochet, then you could use some of your spare time to make blankets or scarves for the less fortunate. Don’t know how to knit or crochet? Follow these videos to help you along.
READ MORE: 7 Ways To Keep Your Social Life Alive During Lockdown
Have a virtual party
So you can’t physically be with your friends but that doesn’t mean you can’t still hang out together. You could host a movie night using Netflix party. Or get together and play games using Houseparty and Zoom.
Come Dine With Me…at home
Have your family or friends show off their cooking skills by hosting a dinner showoff. Each person takes an evening to cook dinner then everyone scores the meal and by the end of the week whoever scored the highest wins a prize!
Do some cleaning
Get your Marie Kondo on by doing some spring…uh autumn cleaning around the house. If you’re unsure of where to start, watch this handy video on how to organise your cupboard.
Visit a museum from your couch
Head to Google Arts & Culture where you can take virtual walkthroughs of international museums. You could take a stroll around the Taj Mihal or maybe you want a closer look at Rembrandt’s The Night’s Watch, whatever your art fancy, there’s something for you.
READ MORE: 6 Tips On How To Protect Your Mental Health During The Coronavirus Pandemic
Download a new book
If you’re used to reading a certain genre of books, switch things up by trying a new one. If you didn’t manage to get to the book store before the shutdown, apps like Google Play Books, Wattpad and Apple Books allow you to read and download books and audiobooks at great prices, you might even score some free ones.
Try a new workout
If you haven’t been getting in much physical activity or if you’re tired of your current home workout routine, try this fun toilet paper home workout created by our deputy editor Wanita Nicol.
