This is an unprecedented time; it seems the whole world is on lockdown. Here are some activities that you can and should do to take your mind off coronavirus.
You should use this time to flourish, not to be under additional stress or panic. We are overwhelmed with information about coronavirus, we feel anxious and fearful. A lot of things that we read can scare us, since everything seems uncertain and it is hard to be optimistic. For how long is this going to last? Some say a few weeks, some believe it will last for a few months or even more (that’s probably the scary part). If we look at China, it took them approximately between two and three months to go back to normal. So, there is space to be an optimist and to take care of yourself.
In the time of social distancing, here are some positive things you can do with your time. These activities can help you take your mind off coronavirus and help you alleviate your worry and fear associated with this terrible situation. Hopefully, these activities can bring you comfort and some peace in your daily life.
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Get Outside in Nature
Yes, we know you should stay home and not socialize and avoid crowds. However, this is a great time to go for a hike in the mountains or walk in a forest or deserted beaches. Get away from people but be outside and enjoy the sun and the beauty of spring.
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Talk to your Friends
Again, this doesn’t mean go and socialize and spend time with your friends, but instead text and call your friends. Catch up with your friends and family members, avoid talking only about coronavirus, tell jokes and talk about the good old times, the books you’ve read and the plans you have once it’s all over.
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It’s Time to Pick up that Book
Now, it’s time to curl up in your favorite chair and read that book that you wanted to read for months. Reading will help you escape from the media and overload of information and conspiracies on coronavirus. Use this extra time to be productive not to worry. Once it all settles, you will regret all the stress and wasted time.
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Spend Some Time with your Family
Although you are not able to socialize with anyone outside your home, you can socialize with your family members. If you are stuck with your family, consider yourself lucky. Many are alone in this. Create fun family nights, binge-watch your favorite TV show with your family members, take home improvement projects and talk to each other about your goals and dreams.
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It’s Time for your Hobbies
Remember when you used to complain that you don’t have time for hobbies. Well, now you probably have more time than you usually would. Get back to learning how to play the guitar, bake a cake or write a novel that you always wanted to write. The time to be creative is now. That will take your mind off the madness around the coronavirus.
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Your Bucket List
You will return to your normal life at some point and you will travel again. Check out great spots for your next trip and write down all future activities, events and places that you want to visit.
Take Your Mind Off Coronavirus by Exercising
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Home Workout
You can’t go to the gym anymore. However, you can still exercise. Besides making healthy meals, you can do yoga (check YouTube videos), or a home workout. That will help you with anxieties and stress.
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Practice Relaxation Techniques
Listen to a recording of nature sounds or calming music or sit outside your home (if you can) and appreciate the sounds, sights and smells around you.
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Be Grateful
This is the time to be grateful for all you have in your life. Write down your blessings and start a gratitude journal. Life will get back to normal.
Stay safe and healthy.