Ways to Keep Busy During COVID-19

Destinee Turner, Staff Writer

Because of the rapid spread of COVID-19, you’ve probably heard a lot about social distancing over the past few days. In a nutshell, it’s a non-medical way for an individual or community to prevent or slow the spread of disease by changing their social practices. The CDC recommends staying at home as much as possible, avoiding large social gatherings, and not going out to public places with the exception of essential trips like to the grocery store and distancing yourself from the elderly.

You shouldn’t fall into despair though. Below is a list of things that you can do at home while isolated.

  • Talk to your grandparents on the phone or Facetime. They’re probably lonely during this time and could use some company.
  • Binge the show, watch the movie or read that book you’ve been putting off. There’s no time like the present to learn something new. Now you have no excuse not to.
  • Take a virtual tour of a museum. There are multiple museums that offer the chance to explore their facilities online. This is the perfect opportunity to discover something new right from home.
  • Expand your knowledge by listening to podcasts or watching documentaries. Whether they are about crime, politics or pop culture, documentaries and podcasts are an excellent way to gain new information to keep your brain active.
  • Learn a new hobby. It can be anything really, like bread making, calligraphy, or solo ballroom dance. These skills can be learned from YouTube or blog posts.
  • Clean or redecorate your room. You probably need to.
  • Host a board game night with your family. Being stuck in your home isn’t so bad. It gives you the opportunity to bond with your family more.
  • Go down a YouTube rabbit hole and discover acrylic pouring or virtual roller coasters. There’s endless amounts of things that you can find on that website. Trust me.
  • Create a group chat with your friends. Have iMessage game Olympics, send memes back and forth and just spend time with your friends however you can, without seeing them physically.

Remember, it’s most important that you and your community stay safe. This isn’t just about you. Keep those vulnerable in mind when you make decisions. Wash your hands, keep a distance, be considerate of those who still have to work and don’t go to public places or travel.