With the whole world on lock down, there’s never been a better time to try something new! When in quarantine, you can occupy your time by trying something new!
It’s just one of those things grownups always say: “if I had more time, I’d…” or, “I’ve always said I would do so-and-so, but I’m so busy…” It’s just a fact that adult responsibilities like work, parenting, household duties, etc, take up so much of our time that often we don’t have any time leftover for fun things or flights of fancy.
If there’s any silver lining to everyone practicing social distancing and being stuck at home, it’s that we do have a little more time now to devote to things we might otherwise continuously put on the back burner.
When in quarantine we’re stuck at home and forced to think of creative ways to have fun and pass the time might just ensure that you finally look into those fun things you always said you would do, if given the time. Well, now you have some time.
Below we’ve suggested a few fun things to pass the time at home other than endless scrolling on social media or binge-watching Netflix. Why not try a few?
Ideas for new things to try when in quarantine:
Take Up Baking/Find Your Inner Chef
A quick look at anyone’s Instagram or Pinterest feed will show that this is a big trend right now. Seems like everyone is baking bread, making cookies and whipping up five-course meals for themselves and their cat. There’s even a yeast shortage due to all the baking! But just because everyone is doing it, doesn’t mean it isn’t a valid hobby or any less rewarding!
There’s a reason that everyone has suddenly become Martha Stewart when in quarantine. Cooking is comforting, it reminds you that you can do productive and nourishing things with your hands, and that creativity and fulfillment can still come, even while you’re facing uncertain times. You’re feeding yourself and your family, and being creative and having fun while doing it.
Whether you’re making from-scratch pasta, beginning your own yeast starter, fermenting grapes for homemade wine, or just opening up a box of brownie mix – get in that kitchen and get cracking! The rewards will be delicious in more ways than one.
New Age and Spiritual Pursuits
Another thing we’re seeing more and more of as we practice social isolation are things like tarot cards, crystals, sage-burning and the types of practices you think of as “new age” or “spiritual”. In times of uncertainty, people like to turn to the mystical or spiritual to find comfort, solace, and good-old fashioned fun.
You don’t have to be a practicing pagan to enjoy the fruits of “new age” pursuits. That term encompasses a whole host of things anyway, from simple tarot readings and astrology to getting a free psychic reading or making herbal tinctures. It is a very broad term that can describe a whole bunch of things.
The point is: as long as you’re coming from a place of respect and reverence, it’s fine to play around with mystical and/or spiritual coping mechanisms such as these. A quick peek online can help you find all sorts of items to help you in your journey, including custom-made tarot cards in a variety of fun themes, herbs, gems/stones/crystals, incense, and so much more.
Crafting, Art and More
Again, people love to be creative in times of uncertainty, to feel like they are producing something helpful, nourishing or even just beautiful to make people feel better. You may have joined the brigade of amazing souls who are making masks to donate to members of your community, or you may just be dabbling in painting or cross stitch. Perhaps you’re doing a bit of gardening to beautify your yard and make your neighbors smile.
Artistic and crafty pursuits, no matter what kind, are a great idea right now. It keeps the creative juices flowing, helps relieve stress and the end result is usually something beautiful to use or enjoy, which makes you and others happy. So no matter whether you’re sewing a mask or a pillow, painting a portrait or an antique bookcase, writing a poem or planting roses – keep it up. Your creative, artistic pursuits are doing a world of good.
Performance
You’ve undoubtedly seen the influx of videos and posts from artists, writers, musicians, dancers and more, sharing their talents via Youtube or Instagram, and you can join in! You don’t have to be a beloved celebrity to share your talents of performance with the world.
This is a great way to be social with others while still at home, and color their world (and your own) with a bit of culture, based on your own unique talents. Read from your favorite novel (or a bit of your own writing), do a dance, play a song, or perform from your favorite play. The sky is the limit!
Now that you’ve got a few ideas on how to alleviate boredom, stay creative and engaged, and tap into comforting things that boost the spirit, you’ll be able to pass those days when in quarantine in a much happier headspace!
Here’s to staying safe, healthy and happy!
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