What a crazy time it is. While we’re all at home protecting the health and safety of ourselves and others, it is safe to say we have all gone a little crazy – and if you haven’t, I applaud you.
Social distancing has brought us strange times where we have absolutely no idea what to do with our lives and if that’s you right now, you might want to keep reading.
I’m here to bring you some ideas on how to take advantage of this time – to come out of this with a new skill, hobby, or even your newly pronounced “side hustle.”
Say goodbye to the long days of staring in your fridge, walking your dog 10 times a day, contemplating texting your ex, or re-reading the news about Tom Brady until you accept the fact that he is no longer with the Patriots.
Write a song
Yes you heard me, write a song. Don’t learn a song but make one yourself! Who ever said you didn’t have the talent or time to come up with a song that would knock a Justin Bieber or Ariana Grande hit out of the park? Well, maybe not that far- or maybe that far. But you won’t be able to find out unless you give it a go! Grab a pen and paper, sit by a window, and just let it flow. Don’t rush this, but don’t wait on this.
Here’s something to get you going.
Make a fitness goal
We all have that one friend who has managed to squeeze in a workout everyday, show that “bod” off, and make you wish you had found the time yourself. Well, here’s your time to be that person. The internet is currently flooded with free online workouts available to anyone who has the motivation. Take advantage of this time and come out of this better and stronger than before. From yoga to strength training and everything in between, there are options out there for everyone – including you. Some websites offer guided workouts with step-by-step instructions while others offer templates. With the ability to filter your needs and wants, this website will set you up with the best fit for you!
Master a fun cooking recipe
Have you been missing your favorite dish from your go-to neighborhood restaurant that acts as a staple in your daily cravings? Why not recreate this at home? While these strange times hold you back from those hip and creative meals that most people don’t often make at home, it’s time to dive into the deep end and put your chef hat on! I’m talking about making those trendy smoothie bowls, buddha bowls, “boujee” burgers and inviting salads. This will also serve as a savior on your wallet post quarantine.
Popular Instagram influencer known as “Earthy Andy” shares all of these recipes on her website with step-by-step instructions on how to master these delicious eats.
Meditate
With all of the craziness going on in the world, I challenge you to close your eyes and let all of it go away for a short period in the day. With the stress, anxiety and daily challenges most people are facing, meditation will alleviate these pains to help you to center your mind and body as one. This will allow your mind to focus and redirect your thoughts, which can increase awareness of yourself and your surroundings which is important during these times. The New York Times has shared a news story on how to take care of yourself during the quarantine with links to guided meditations.
Make a three-course meal with forgotten pantry items
OK, so I know what you’re thinking. How the heck are you supposed to make not only one course but three with things you don’t even know you have? Trust me, when I first tried this I never thought I could, but I did! Now before you cheat and run off to the store for an item you may be wanting right now – don’t. You got this! Think simple, like canned tuna, pasta, olives, random sauces, etc. I managed to throw together a plate of cheese and olives for my first course, a delicious tuna sandwich with pickles for my main course, and stumbled upon an unopened bar of dark chocolate hidden under the cereal boxes. This meal was not only fun to make, but was something I don’t normally have, which helped spice up my daily quarantine life.
Below are some creative recipes to use with your random items – but before you check them out, I challenge you to create on your own!
Make face masks at home
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is advising all of America to wear masks. Hospitals around the country are already lacking them, so the need for help is at an all time high right now. We should not be purchasing hospital grade masks to wear to the grocery store as this would take the supply away from doctors, nurses, and patients who are being exposed to the virus on a daily basis. We must take matters into our own hands and get creative.There are so many online tutorials and YouTube videos on how to assemble a safe mask for everyday use. Sewing machine or not, there’s a way for everyone to get involved.
Learn something new
As broad as this is, I don’t want to tell you what you should be learning. Whether you’re still in school or not, the learning process never ends, and I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone (but not your house) and pick up something you never thought you would do before! It could be anything from painting, to learning a new language, to getting to know more about your friends, or even yourself. Just learn. Don’t waste this valuable time. You may be bored of it already, but I hope you’ll never have this time like you do now ever again, so use it wisely.
Here is a list of 100 things to do while stuck inside, have fun with it!
by Liza Toppa
CougarBuzz 