The Best Practices and Measures for QUARANTINE 2020
If you’re following the demands of our government, you’re reading this cocooned in your home under lock down or self-quarantine.
At first, it didn’t seem so bad. You had the opportunity to catch up on a few Netflix shows that you’ve been looking forward to watching. You were able to read some good books without interruption and get a little extra sleep since you no longer have that annoying two-hour, back-and-forth commute to work.
Now, reality is starting to kick in. Your children are at home full time because the schools are all closed. You still need to get office work done, keep the kids occupied, entertained and play the part of school teacher.
You’re probably going a little stir-crazy and developing cabin fever. You desperately want to go outside, but don’t want to catch the coronavirus and you certainly don’t want to spread it to some else, especially if they’re older.
It looks like we will be hibernating in seclusion for a while. Our officials say it’s only temporary. Most likely two weeks will turn into two months—or longer—depending on how quickly we can contain the outbreak.
You now have a critical choice to make: you can either waste away the moments that make up a dull day or use this time to your advantage. You can continue binge-watching television and munching on snacks or you could embark upon a campaign of self-improvement and helping others.
Do it yourself (DIY)
It’s now apparent that it’s more than just the light bulb that needs fixing… the more time you spend at home, the more you’ll realise how much work there is to be done! With all the spare time on your hands, there’s no better time to start filtering through all those odd jobs that you just never got around to. Whether it’s time to re-paint the skirting boards or to drill a hole in the wall and finally hang the mirror up, see what other DIY tasks you can find whilst you’re self-isolating.
Get green
Just to clarify, this does not mean transforming into the Incredible Hulk- we were thinking more along the lines of growing some potatoes or basil! Not only is this a cost-effective way of getting some sustenance, but it will also give you a project to look after day-by-day. It’s also something fun to get the kids involved in too, and it should definitely take up a significant chunk of your time, especially while the weather is good!
Virtual tours
Although the National Gallery has now been temporarily closed down due to COVID-19, you can still take a look at some of the National Gallery’s incredible artwork by taking a Virtual Tour. It’s a great way to learn some history as well as educating the kids whilst they’re off school. With a virtual tour of 18 Gallery rooms and over 300 paintings to immerse yourself in, you’ll get some undeniable Renaissance knowledge.
Indoor work-outs
You’ve been meaning to do it for a while now, and we know the diet starts next week, but as they say, there’s no time like the present, and what better place than from the comfort of your own home? Avoid awkward eye contact and the sheer embarrassment of not knowing how to work the hip abductor by getting some exercise in with effective home-work outs. You can find some easy-to-follow guides on YouTube or Google, or Joe Wicks (@thebodycoach) is hosting PE sessions for you and little ones on social media. After all, a healthy body is a healthy mind.
Family time
Right. We know this one might be controversial and probably has a time limit, but what’s more beautiful than coming together as a family? Minus the fighting and constant ‘he said, she said’, of course. But you could dust off the Monopoly or get out the Scrabble, and find you have an amazing time as you re-connect.
Take some online courses
If you need something to keep your brain stimulated, there are an abundance of online courses you could look into. Future Learn has a variety of subjects to feed your mind, and you may even come across a passion you never knew you had. Pick up on something you’ve been meaning to learn about but haven’t had the time for – if not now, then when?
Cook up a storm in the kitchen
Self-isolating means that unfortunately you can’t eat out at your favourite restaurant, and with talk of a lockdown, you might not be able to get food delivered to you either. This means now is the perfect time to broaden your culinary skills by practising some recipes! You’ll have plenty of time to perfect your signature dish. Stuck for inspiration? Be sure to check online- BBC Good Food has thousands of great recipes.
Meditate
It’s important to be mindful of your surroundings as well as your well-being whilst in quarantine, and meditation might help you get a bit of peace of mind in times of uncertainty. Find a quiet space, light some candles and clear your mind with some therapeutic meditation music or relax with a meditation colouring book.
Practice an instrument
As we prepare to spend a significant amount of time at home, it’s important that we focus on doing things that will enhance our skills and improve productivity. Practising an instrument can be good fun, and it’s also an inventive way to keep yourself entertained, especially when there are slim pickings when it comes to entertainment.
Movie marathon
It’s finally time to start watching Harry Potter from start to finish, just like you said you would, or if you’re in the mood to watch something more action-packed, sit back and relax whilst watching the many variations of agent 007 – that’ll give you something to do for a day or two.
And last but not least…
Staying at home for a prolonged period of time may prove difficult, but that’s even more of a reason to rise to the challenge – There are plenty of things to do to remain productive, just remember to wash your hands at regular intervals and use anti-bacterial wipes for things that you touch or use often. Taking hygiene seriously is a key factor and it’s also important to take care of yourselves. Stay safe everyone!
