The days are becoming longer, the sun is shining, and the weather is getting warmer. And now we’re all supposed to stay home.
While it’s inconvenient, frustrating and boring, staying home during this pandemic is a small action that you can take that will potentially benefit many. Bars, restaurants, and businesses are all temporarily shutting down or mandating work-from-home scenarios to try and contain the spread of the novel Coronavirus (COVID-19).
As Buffalonians, this is a pretty crazy thing for us to grasp. We’re a city that continues to run and function during snowfall that would shut other places down. We still go about our lives as much as possible even when there’s seven feet of snow, but this virus isn’t like anything we’ve ever had to deal with before.
Staying home and social distancing is the best thing you can do for yourself and those around you. So, while you’re home and trying not to go a little stir crazy, here are some things you can do to keep yourself busy:
- Organize all of your closets, dressers, and drawers. If you haven’t heard of Marie Kondo, you need to hop on Netflix and check her out. She has great organizational methods that will literally change your life (trust me!)
- Try a new home workout. Local gyms are moving to online streaming platforms like Zoom so they can still help clients maintain their fitness. Working out with a live stream will also hold you more accountable than just watching a DVD!
- Get crafty. Puzzles, crafts, and DIY projects are all calming activities that we usually put off because we don’t have the time for them or they’re not high on our priority list. Self-isolation is a great opportunity to make time for these projects.
- Hone your cooking skills. Many times, we’re on the run and cook whatever is fastest or easiest. Do some research, find a new recipe that might challenge you a little and see how well you do.
- Read a new book. Quiet and relaxing, it’s easy to get lost in a really good book for hours at a time!
- Go for a walk or run. Being isolated doesn’t mean you can’t go outside, grab your dog or a pair of headphones and head outside for a change of scenery, but remember to remain at least six feet away from anyone you may pass along the way!
Don’t forget to take advantage of modern technology and Skype or FaceTime your friends. Isolation can be lonely, however it will be worth it in the long run. Checking up on each other is one way we can get our social fix and ward off anxiety and feelings that come with being alone. If you’re struggling mentally, there are plenty of places that offer tele-mental health services, don’t be afraid to reach out!
