10 things you can do during the coronavirus lockdown, besides work

The coronavirus pandemic has necessitated social distancing the world over. This means that everyone, introvert and extrovert, is spending A LOT of time at home. Social media has been full of posts asking introverts what they do to pass the time and I couldn’t help but smile.

I like spending time at home. It’s where I go to destress, relax, organise my life and generally, the only place I feel I can be myself every day. But when you’re forced to spend hours on end in an enclosed space, how do you survive without losing your mind?

Check out some ideas below.

1. Clean your home

It can be hard to find time to deep clean your home during the normal schedule. But since you have a bit more time on your hands now, get into those places that don’t get cleaned often like under the bed, in your kitchen cupboards or even your walls.

2. Read

I like reading but never seem to have enough time to indulge in books, magazines and blogs. This time, schedule a part of your day, even just an hour, when you can unplug from social media or TV and get through your reading list.

3. Exercise

This is another activity that can get neglected when life gets too busy. Since life is slightly less busy now, be sure to schedule time in your day when you can get some exercise. You’re moving around less now but that doesn’t mean that your body should suffer the consequences.

4. Refurbish old furniture

My sister is great at actually getting her DIY projects off the ground. Me, not so much. But I am trying to. If you’ve been thinking about painting that old chair or vanishing an old table, now is the time to do it. You can get supplies at your local hardware store.

5. Rearrange your house

I love rearranging my furniture as I try to get the maximum out of my space. This is also a good way to refresh your space, making it look somewhat new.

6. Get organised

I never seem to have the time to update my bullet journal, review my goals or even just ensure that my documents are well kept. This is the perfect time to do that. Set aside some time and organise one area at a time.

7. Make a menu and actually cook

Menus will help you plan your meals in advance. I like to look for new ways to cook regular things so that I don’t end up making say chips every week. I will look for new ways to cook my potatoes and my daughter loves it. 

8. Do clothes repairs

If you have a pile of clothes that need small repairs that you don’t necessarily need to take to the tailor, pull them ou of your closet and start to repair them. The best part about this task is that you can do it while watching your favourite series.

9. Get creative

Some of us have dreams of cultivating our creative side and what better time to start than now. If you’ve always wanted to draw, paint, make jewellery, sew, etc. why not start now?

10. Self-care

Since you don’t have to grapple with the morning rush hour traffic, take 15 minutes from your morning routine and meditate. 

You can also write in your journal and listen to motivating podcasts.