How to make the most of your time at home

An indefinite amount of time off school / college may sound like heaven until you are actually stuck at home with (seemingly) nothing to do. It is easy to become consumed with the media coverage of Covid-19 which for a lot of us is only adding to the anxiety we may feel about the virus. You’re not alone if you’re feeling overwhelmed or anxious about this whole situation. I have certainly been feeling some “Covid-19 anxiety” recently but I’ve found ways to overcome it and make the most out of what can feel like a bit of a crappy situation.

Here are some tips for making the most of your time at home:

Reduce social media time

Right now all social media platforms are consumed with news, facts and rumours (yes rumours, and lots of them at that). When you’re only scrolling to kill time this information can feel overwhelming and scary. I’ve found that limiting my time spent on social media really helps, and if I find myself becoming anxious reading the news I take a step back from it.

Switch up your newsfeed

For some of us it may feel impossible to go without social media but changing up your newsfeed with more positive news and accounts has really helped. I recently found @the_happy_broadcast on Instagram which only posts positive news both concerning the coronavirus and just general news. Following this account has really brought up my spirits. There are a lot of amazing influencers who are great to follow in general but particularly at the moment. Take a look around and find some accounts that give you positive energy.

Start a new TV show, a new book or a new podcast

Diving into a new type of media is the perfect way to lift up your spirits or even simply kill some time. Now is a great time to start reading that book you’ve been putting off for months or finally start binging a new Netflix series. Some great shows that I have loved watching are One Day at a Time, The Good Place, The Bold Type, The Fosters and RuPaul’s Drag Race. In terms of podcasts I love I’m Grand Mam, Unexpected Fluids and Bite Back with Roz Purcell.

Get creative

I started colouring for the first time since senior infants today and it was AMAZING. Colouring is a great way to relax and put your mind at rest, and you don’t even have to be artistic to do it. If colouring isn’t for you, you could try your hand at some creative writing, drawing, painting, or even some cooking, whatever floats your boat. Getting creative is a great outlet!

Get some exercise

Just because training is cancelled or gyms are closed doesn’t mean you can’t get in some exercise. Something as simple as going for a jog or walking your dog is great exercise and one of the best ways to clear your head. There are lots of videos online with easy yoga or pilates routines that you can do at home too.

Stay connected

Just because you’re stuck at home doesn’t mean you have to be completely cut off from the world. Remember to keep in touch with your friends and family. If you’re in school or college it can be a good idea to keep up to date with your clubs and societies online – just because you’re not in school or college doesn’t mean you have to be totally distant from the community.

This is a difficult and uncertain time for many people so make sure to take some positive steps to look after your physical and mental health.