8 fun ways to keep yourself entertained during quarantine
Beat boredom with these fun ways to keep yourself entertained during quarantine
So you're stuck at home during this covid 19 pandemic. You've been self-isolating and self-quarantining for weeks and you've really been enjoying this opportunity to really reconnect with yourself. You didn't realize how much you time you needed with yourself until it was forced upon you but so far it's been pretty good. By journaling and meditating, you've really gotten some emotional and mental clarity. And it has been truly appreciated.
You also may be working from home now as social distancing is the new way of life and more and more businesses are practicing work from home to help do their part in curtailing the spread of this pandemic. You've probably been doing your best to try to stay productive during this time of quarantine. And overall, you've been kicking ass. You've gotten more work done than ever. But now you have the added bonus of being able to cook your meals and even work on your creative passions and hobbies.
And for a while, things were pretty fabulous. Or, maybe it was a bit rough but you had started to get a little bit better at handling this new normal. Until… you weren't. And suddenly overwhelm has started creeping in.
You're starting to feel trapped in your own home. You're feeling the weight of the imposed restrictions. You can only rush out of the house for a few moments to get the essentials and then it's back home you go. Then you start remembering all the big plans you had for 2020. All the events, dinners or movies with friends and family, trips and the myriad of other leisure activities you had all penciled into your calendar.
And suddenly you realize that you're all netflixed, hulu'd and Disney plused out. You've seen pretty much all you're interested in watching or maybe you're just tired of watching shows about people living normally when you want to be out in the world living life too. Basically you're over this corona thing and you're ready for things to get back to normal. And trust me I hear you. I feel the exact same way. But we know and understand the value of all the measures we've been asked to take and we continue to do our part in reducing the spread and transmission of covid 19.
So now what? You're still going stir crazy looking for ways to entertain yourself because you're honestly bored out of your mind. Watching TV and movies just isn't doing it for you anymore and you're desperately looking for ideas on things to do with your free time.
Don't let boredom win. Below are a list of some fun ways to keep yourself entertained as we continue to quarantine and adjust ourselves to our current new normal. Enjoy!
1. Listen to podcasts
Podcasts are slowly but surely becoming the biggest thing in mainstream media. Likened to on demand radio at it's finest, podcasts give listeners of all interests the I'll to connect with and listen to programs from creators from every sphere of life. There is literally a podcast for everyone. Love a good story telling, there's something for you. Want some self improvement tips? They've got that too. Or , maybe you just want some gossip and the latest in pop culture. It's all there too. And best of all streaming services tend to be free and widely available so you can listen to your favourite podcasts anywhere and anytime from the device in the palm of your hands.
2. Learn and recreate a dance routine for TikTok
Tiktok creators have really emerged the unsung heros of this pandemic. These short videos have had the uncanny ability to pack an amazing amount of entertainment in short bursts of energy. Not only that it has created a unique collaboration opportunity for creators near and far and families stuck at home to bond and produce excellent content. Whether it be the savage challenge, the don't rush challenge or one of the myriad of dog, cat or funny family videos; all have made some major impact in this quarantine. So if you're looking for something fun to do, try doing a tiktok video.
PS the Savage remix by Meg thee Stallion and Beyonce is out so you can definitely hop on that.
3. Play some video games
So I'm going to just start off by saying that I’m not much of a video game player myself but as I've been told 'Games haffi bun - translation Games need to be played’ so I know all you gamers out there are just eager to reach the next level, beat the next boss, level up your character or whatever.
Video games also offer the amazing ability to connect you with others as many games have multiplayer user features and your teammate doesn't have to be located beside you or anywhere near you. And hey of you’re good enough then maybe you can start a gaming YouTube channel and possibly make a little extra cash too.
4. Play board games
Speaking of games, there's nothing I enjoy more than a good old fashioned board game. And trust and believe I get competitive too.
I don't know what it is but board games to me are just pure fun. And better yet, if your self-isolating with family, friends, roommates, etc then you can make it a game night or games tournament and at the end of it all crown the ultimate champion.
NB if you're too sensitive for board games, overly competitive or think this could in any way, shape or form ruin your relationships; then just stay away. It's not worth it lol. Board games are to be pure and honest fun not end friendships.
5. Try a new look
I know! I know! You're not going anywhere. No one is going anywhere. Movies are closed. Restaurants are doing takeout only. Clubs, museums, concerts, beaches, pretty much everything entertainment-wise has been put on a hold and standstill. So I'm well aware we don't have anywhere to go for the foreseeable future.
But you know what? This creates a unique opportunity. It gives you plenty of time to perfect your signature makeup look and try to creatively reorganize your closet to rediscover some old favourites and use them in a new way. Try a new hair do or two. Especially, since I already know you've been leveling up your skincare and trying to include some more exercise into your day. Let's make the most of this at home time to try some new looks and experiment a bit. And then when we emerge from self-isolation we will emerge like beautiful butterflies just springing from their cocoons. The quarantine glow up will be real amazing.
6. Host or attend an online party
Social-distancing has really turned up the creativity level of the world’s creatives. Between producer, musician and dj battles on IG live to streaming stations hosting online parties. Fun is being had all around. So the next time you see a streaming party going on, why don't you join in. You're bound to have some fun.
Feeling like you want to play host/ hostess for a bit? Then organize with your friends and family to have a zoom party. It can be anything or any theme. Whether it's a movie viewing party, dance party, costume party or even host an online games night. Your party, your rules.
7. Do some DIY projects or gardening
Is there a project that you've been dying to try? Some home improvement or diy activity that you just haven’t gotten around to doing? Got a wonderful green thumb or been dying to start your garden but haven't had the time? Or, maybe you just love a good old fashioned diy. No matter what it is, dust off your creative juices and get to trying new activities or planting a new herb or flower in your garden. The act of creating not only gives you something to focus on, also releases stress and gives you a sense of calm.
8. Read something
I've said it once and I'll say it again. Nothing beats a good book. I love reading as you could've probably guessed. And I'm sure every bibliophile around would agree with me that a good book is a must during this time. A good book soothes the mind, heart and the soul. It opens you up to brand new experiences and new ideas. And reinforces positive possibilities as symbols of hope. It entertains and excites. So the next time you're looking for something to do, just cozy up with a good book, drink some relaxing tea and read.
It's easy for us to feel overwhelmed in times like this. And sometimes when we’re overwhelmed, we can forget the things we're interested or the things we enjoy and that makes us happy. This list barely scathes the surface of ways to keep yourself entertained during this pandemic. I'm sure if you really thought about it, you can get a little creative and come up with some ideas of your own.
So how have you been entertaining yourself during quarantine and self-isolation. Leave your ideas and tips in the comments below. I love hearing from you guys.