5 Things to Do while Quarantined

I want to take a quick break from my usual monthly blog about art or synesthesia related topics to talk about the state of worldwide affairs, specifically this Coronavirus. Let me start by saying I’m really not into mainstream events. I don’t care about gossip magazines or political campaigns. There is drama everywhere and I don’t want any part in it. But during this time of global isolation, I want to suggest 5 things to do while quarantined. Whether or not you’ve been temporarily laid off or are working from home, you certainly have more time on your hands. This is a great opportunity to take advantage of a new way of life.

1. Practice Self-Care

How many times does Sunday night roll around and you think to yourself, “Man, I wish I just had one more day of the weekend.”? With the extra time you have at home, count it as your opportunity to make it a pseudo-weekend. Do something for yourself that you don’t usually have time for. When was the last time you masked? Got a full-night’s sleep? Exercised…and more than just a few sit ups after you felt guilty for eating a pint of ice-cream? This is your chance to start taking care of yourself!

2. Practice Others-Care

You are not the only one going through this quarantine. If all you’re doing is complaining about being cooped up or scrolling through social media to find new memes about how now’s the time to sit in front of the couch to save the world, you’re doing life wrong. We were created for community; that’s why everyone is struggling in a time of isolation. Instead of thinking about yourself, reach out to your friends or family that you haven’t talked to in a while. Reach out to someone at church or someone in your class who might not have the luxury of close friends to chat to. Ask them if they need any help.

3. Be Productive

Have you ever said that you’ll clean the house next weekend when you have more time only to find out next weekend didn’t actually have the time you thought it would have? Do a deep clean of the house. Nothing feels better than a fresh home. Or maybe you’re a clean freak and cleaned the house 3 times last week. Maybe it’s time to try a new hairstyle. Maybe it’s time to whip out your old water colors and practice being creative again.

4. Learn

I can’t tell you how many digital educational resources there are right now who are offering free courses. Take advantage of their offers because they won’t last forever. You may have a lot of youtube videos that you’ve been meaning to watch but never get around to them. Learn how to do the perfect cat-eye eyeliner or the double dream hands dance.

5. Meditate

Life is busy. We can get so caught up in our routine, that we often forget to just be still and recharge. This is the perfect time to do some self-reflection: what are you doing with your life? If you feel overwhelmed with current events, try to take a step back and gain a better perspective. Romans 12:2 (NIV) says “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Remember that god is in control. Nothing happening is happening without His knowledge. In our finite state-of-being, we have a limited understanding of the greater purpose of this time. 2 Timothy 1:7 (CSB) says “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but one of power, love, and sound judgment.” There is no reason to be afraid. Be empowered, be loving, and have good judgement.

I think it’s so important to understand that these tumultuous times aren’t going to last forever. We all need to take a deep breath (from a socially distant acceptable distance) and find peace. Think about how you will feel in 10 months or 10 years when you look back at this time. Will you be proud of yourself? Will you wish you did it differently? Hindsight is 20/20 but if you make the most of every opportunity, you won’t regret what you did with your life. I’d love to hear how you are doing. Let me know what you’re doing to make the most of your quarantine.