As social distancing, self-isolation, and cancellations of large public gatherings become more widespread to protect the safety and wellbeing of our vulnerable populations, many people are finding themselves stuck indoors with time to fill. While this new normal can feel disorienting and distressing, there’s never been a better time to show communal solidarity by maintaining physical separation. We’ve compiled a few ideas to help reduce anxiety and keep cabin-fever at bay while we support each other.
Self-Isolation Activities to Boost Morale
Get Stuck in a Creative Practice
Light a candle, put on some soothing jazz, and pick up a creative hobby. Write poetry, mend your worn out clothes, practice your drawing skills. Color for the fun of it. Practice origami using some scrap paper. Start a sourdough starter, or try making cinnamon rolls for the first time.
Learn Something New
Watch that documentary you’ve been putting off. Catch up on audiobooks or podcasts. Dig into a new language. Take an online course and find an opportunity to practice what you’ve learned. Embrace a new cultural artform - the Metropolitan Opera is streaming a new opera every day for the next two weeks. Take an online painting class!
Lean into a Media Binge
Start a movie marathon of your favorites and watch one a day for the next seven days. Binge that new show everyone has been telling you to try. To make it even more special, set up a pillow fort in the living room, make some popcorn, and make a special event out of it. Bring in your favorite people – Netflix Party is a Chrome extension for watching Netflix remotely with friends.
Get Connected
One of the beauties of the technology age is our ability to stay connected across distances. Write an email (or even a real letter!) to a family member, set up a video-chat lunch date with a friend, and if nothing else - send copious amounts of cat and baby photos to your loved ones to brighten their spirits. Take a trip down memory lane by reading old birthday cards or looking at family photos to bring on the warm-and-fuzzies.
Treat Yourself
Take some time to deep condition your hair, give yourself a luxurious home manicure, and indulge in a DIY spa day. Care for your mind by practicing meditation using a timer or free app to get started. Spa not really your thing? Google “mug brownie recipe” and thank us later.
Tap Into Your Wanderlust
A lot of opportunities for travel have been postponed or canceled, but that doesn’t mean you can’t go exploring in some way. Get outside for a walk in the park, or visit a local nature preserve to preserve your sanity. Investigate travel options for your next trip - pick a place and research the cultural sites and food spots you want to see most. You’ll be ready to make your plans when the time comes.
Now, more than ever, it’s important we take time for ourselves and each other. Set aside time every day to maintain relationships and show some love to yourself and others. We hope the ideas we’ve shared spark creativity and connection.