SELF-ISOLATION: HOW TO MAKE THE BEST OUT OF YOUR TIME AT HOME

Self-isolation has become a reality for many Nigerians as the impact of corona virus on the country becomes more pronounced.

Whether self-imposed social distancing or enforced self-isolation after overseas travel or contact with a confirmed case, there are already a number of Nigerians undergoing a 14-day period of solid home time.

This is an unprecedented time, and the notion of staying at home for an extended period is a lot for anyone to wrap their head around, both physically and mentally.

Nevertheless, staying indoor can be just as fun and productive as going out. We’ve collated a list of productive activities to help you keep boredom at bay during the COVID-19 lock-down. From learning new skills to embracing your inner DIY guru, we’ve got you covered.

Clear Out Your Wardrobe (Closet)

Devote your new-found time and attention to sorting out your clothes, declutter your home, disregard items you haven’t worn for six months and coordinating clothes into sections. There has never been a better time to purge your closet of the clothing you’ve neglected to wear for the last year or so. So, bag up anything worth donating and hand-off items to friends who’ve always admired your look or to the needy.

Learn Something New

Dedicate your new-found time to hone a new skill like baking, knitting (knitting is actually considered therapeutic and practical), cooking a new dish, learn an instrument that you’ve always wanted to play. You can also challenge yourself to learn a new language in just a few weeks, to get you ready for your next trip. With a ton of apps and websites that provides free lessons, you certainly have no excuses not to.

Furthermore, you can take an online course in a subject most intriguing to you. There are lots of digital resources online that allow you to learn new lessons from the comfort of your home.

Practice Self-Care

Self-care often falls by the wayside, but doing those little things for yourself is hugely important for your state of happiness and contentment. While you have this time, make sure to prioritize some of it for yourself, however, you see fit.

Re-watch old TV shows

Did you miss any of the famous tv shows/series? Now is the time to catch up on all that shows you’ve been curious about, so get comfy and get ready to commit hours of your life to watch someone else’s dramas.

Make a virtual book/movie club

Take turns in a group chat to designate a movie everyone must watch (not Pandemic) or a book the group must-read. Exchange notes afterward and enjoy feeling that sense of connectedness, despite the fact you’re not in the same room.

Stay Connected with Loved Ones

Check up regularly on your family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues. Schedule video chats and find ways to take part in activities together, even from afar.

Stay at home and work out

Replace your gym visit with an at-home work-out, with squats, burpees, and press-ups all achievable without equipment.

Start a blog

Use your down-time wisely and start a blog to share your thoughts or favorite hobbies. WordPress is a go-to for most bloggers and it’s very simple to use.

Dance it out

Blast out some of your preferred tunes and get dancing in your bedroom, living room or bathroom.

Let Your creative juices flow

Embark on a creative arts and crafts challenge, from sketching and mindful coloring to pottery. Stuck for ideas? Research online and you’d have some great suggestions to get you started.