Before getting into the things to do while we isolate ourselves, take a moment to remember Why we isolate ourselves. During the times of a global pandemic, the most effective way to stop the spread of an infectious disease is to not expose yourself or others to it in the first place.

Over the past two weeks, we have experienced a period of social distancing. And I think it’s safe to say that it drives everyone a little crazy! If this is the case for you, who is being laughed at, it probably is, relax because here are some things you can do to occupy your time while you wait for things to get back to normal.

1. Learn to code

Coding is a useful skill. Plus, it’s one you can learn on your own at no cost! There are plenty of easy-to-navigate websites where you can explore the wonderful world of code. Two of my personal favorites are code.org which helps you learn basic skills through block coding and Codecademy which is more advanced and teaches you how to write code.

2. Build a cover fort

Take pillows, blankets and whatever else you want! Channel your inner 6 year old and start building. Not only is it time consuming, but also fun and nostalgic. More importantly, once you’re done, you have a headquarters to operate from for the next two weeks.

3. Watch binge TV shows

There’s nothing wrong with sitting down and catching up on all the episodes of that show you’ve never heard of… Streaming services have made it easier, with Netflix launching Netflix Party which lets you to watch movies and shows with friends, and HBO offers its content without a subscription.

4. Create your own board game

Cut up an old cardboard box, grab some craft supplies and random household items, then get creative! When you’re done, video call your friends and play your game together. My sister and I used to do this when we were kids. Let me tell you, it’s a great way to spend some time =)

5. Read a book

This is a very good option if you feel stuck. Reading has the power to transport you anywhere. A few words are enough to bring you to people and places you have never known before. The characters become your friends, your enemies, you develop deep-rooted feelings for the people in these pages.

If reading physical books isn’t your thing, Audible has launched a program called Audible Stories, which is completely free during the COVID-19-related school closures.

6. Write something down

Write down your ideas. Record your dreams. Put pen to paper and let it all out. Writing can be a great way to express yourself while staying busy. It also reduces stress and exercises your mind.

• Write a book

  • If you feel like you have strong ideas, this could be the path for you. There are tons of resources you can find to help you with this process and plenty of time to get started on something =)

• Write a screenplay

  • If you have a story you want to tell, but a book seems intimidating, a screenplay might just be your thing The structured format allows you to be creative and prevents you from feeling overwhelmed looking at the blank page you want to fill. Celtx is a great (and free) place to start!

Friendly tip: Start a Pinterest board for the type of story you’re writing. This helps you keep track of what you’re doing, especially when you start dividing scenes into sections. If you don’t want people to see what you’re doing, make your board private.

• Start a COVID Diary

  • One day, in about a hundred years, historians and high school history classes all over the world will look into this Corona crisis and they will want more than numbers, to record how you feel about it, to be a primary the source. Putting your feelings on paper can help you overcome them

• Write a letter

  • Why should I do this!? I can just message my friends. To that, I say, the letters are more personal, they offer a characteristic of yourself that does not exist in a text. An added benefit is that a trip to the mailbox is a way to get out of the house while still social distancing. Remember to wear a mask when you go out!

7. Make masks

Making masks can be a fun and useful way to pass your time. There are tons of sewn and unsewn patterns online. You could even make a contribution to your community by donating to employees at a local store, doctor’s office or nursing home, or any essential business. These instruments prevent people from spreading the virus, not catching it.

8. Get to know yourself

In this fast-paced world, we often find ourselves caught up in one activity after another and through this we lose touch with ourselves. Take some of this time to check in. Do a little self-exploration to find out what makes you yourself, what makes you happy. Maybe do a little meditation and clear your mind. Just sit still and find yourself.

9. Log back in

We live in a world where you don’t have to be together… to be together. We have incredible technology that can connect us to the people we know and care about. Use that time and the tools you have to reconnect with the people your otherwise busy lives left no time for.

10. Take a nap!

Take a nap!? Yes, take a nap! When you don’t get enough sleep, you weaken your immune system. People who don’t get enough sleep have a high chance of getting sick when exposed to a virus. If you get sick and don’t sleep well, it will take you longer to recover. So jump in your bed and go take a nap. 😴

A Major Misconception Floating The Internet That You Need To Be Productive During Shutdown, But I’m Here To Tell You KEEPING ALIVE AND HEALTHY IS PRODUCTIVE ENOUGH! Wash your hands, make sure you practice good hygiene, but also make sure you stay mentally healthy.

Breathe. We are all in the same boat.