Are you currently feeling trapped and restless at home? I can totally relate, no longer having my full time job and side gigs, local restaurants and shops to go to, or being able to make travel plans, has left a lot of room for boredom. But instead of just sitting around watching TV and eating potato chips, why not try to use at least some of this time to pursue some healthy activities? So here's a list of a few actvities you can do, while in quarantine, to help keep your mind and body healthy and active.
Yoga
There are plenty of options for doing yoga from home. You can either make up your own flow, find a YouTube video or even take an online class. Many yoga studios and teachers are currently teaching classes using Zoom or Instagram Live. Yoga is a great at home workout because it requires minimal to no equipment and usually doesn't involve any loud music or moves (such as jumping). Check if your local gym or yoga studio is offering online classes, or better yet, take an online class from a yoga teacher you've always wanted to learn from. This is a great time to connect with yogis from all over the world, who maybe you wouldn't otherwise be able to take a class with.
Get Some Fresh Air
I understand that in some areas it may be too cold (such as where I live, in New York), or maybe you aren't allowed to go outside due to quarantine restrictions. If you can however, try to get outside for some fresh air and sunshine! Even if it's just in your backyard or on your balcony, getting outside can help to boost your immune system and your mood. If possible, try going on a nature walk, which is also a great way to get some exercise, especially if you haven't been doing your regular runs on the treadmill (calling myself out here). If there's no possible way for you to go outside, try to at least crack a window to get some fresh air flowing through your home.
Hula Hooping
Hula hoop dancing is of course one of my favorite activities of all time. It's a great way to get up and moving, and can even be a great brain excersize. Right now, there are so many hoop dancers who are offering online classes and meetups. I myself am currently offering my online hoop lessons as donation based during this time of crisis, meaning you can take a lesson from me and pay as little or as much as you are able to afford. It doesn't matter if you're a hooper of a few years who wants to get into performing soon, or a total beginner! My lessons can be tailored to all levels within my realm of experience. Message me today to book!
Reading
If you're anything like me, you have a few (or maybe a lot of) books laying around that you've never "had the time" to read. Well now is the perfect time! Pick up a book you haven't read yet or an old favorite. And if you don't have any books you want to read lying around, look into e-books, which are often cheaper as well.
Journaling
Ever since I was a kid, I always found journaling to be extremely therapeutic. I love writing, and sometimes I feel like I am able to get my point across more clearly when writing than speaking. Order a new journal online or see if you have an old notebook lying around that could be used as a journal. Especially during a stressful time such as this, it can feel really good to get your thoughts down on paper, instead of letting them keep swimming around inside your head and causing you anxiety.
Caring for Plants
Maybe you're like me and already have several indoor plants, or even a full on outdoor garden. If you do have plants, or are able to get some at this time, now is the perfect time to exercise your green thumb. Caring for plants can also be very therapeutic and is especially great for people who aren't able to have pets.
Learn a New Skill
There's never been a better time to take advantage of online classes and learn a new skill. Whether it's something to keep you active, like yoga or hula hooping, or something you've always wanted to learn more about, learning something new will help you to feel like your not wasting time. Personally, I always feel like I need to be getting something accomplished, so I've been really enjoying taking yoga classes online and even some college level courses. You could also use this time to learn a new language or an instrument that's been lying around the house that you've never had time to practice with.
Take a Nap
While this may not seem nearly as productive when compared to my previous suggestions, I feel that it is equally important to give yourself time to rest. This whole situation is very stressful, so it's understandable if you feel more depressed* and unmotivated than usual. Don't be too hard on yourself, and remember to always try to get a good night's sleep. But if that's not possible due to the schedules of other family members, your own anxiety* preventing you from sleeping, or just because you feel tired, it's perfectly fine to take a nap. Remember to rest up and take care of yourself.
This whole situation is very new and scary. There is no one right way to deal with it, and we are constantly being fed new, conflicting and often false information. So just be sure to do your best to take care of yourself and your family, stay home and do what you feel you are able to. We are all in this together and it will end! I wish you all the best and thank you for reading my blog post.
*If you feel you are really struggling with your mental heath, please reach out to a professional instead of taking tips from blog posts like this one. Stay safe and healthy!
