This pandemic has affected us all in different ways, whether you’ve lost your job, or maybe you still have your job, but can’t see your loved ones. A lot of humans rely on physical affection for happiness, and that has been taken from us. So this is a tough time for everyone, everyone’s struggle is different, but the struggle is real. This is a mental challenge to stay in a positive mind set, as much as it is a physical challenge to stay at home.
Because of all of this, I’ve found some ways to keep myself busy during this time to keep my mind from going to places that aren’t positive and productive, and I hope they help you, too.
1. Meditation
Some may find this silly, but meditation is one thing that helps me at night when I’m attempting to sleep. My brain becomes occupied with distracted thoughts and it is difficult to calm it down. But, when I decide to turn the app on for just the quick 10 minute meditation, I’m usually asleep before it’s even over. I use an app called HeadSpace and it is free on the AppleStore, if you’d like to look into it.
2. Read A Book or Article
So in the interest of transparency, I’m not a huge reader, but I have had a lot of free time so I’ve gotten a little desperate! I will say though, this has been a large component of keeping me in the right mindset. Doing this not only keeps your mind off of your own negative thoughts, but also educates you on whatever topic you choose to read about.
3. Exercise
Exercising means different things to different people. Whatever it means to you, do that! It is just good to get your heart rate up, sweat it out a little, and get all of your endorphins movin’ and groovin’. It doesn’t have to be anything crazy, but doing some sort of physical action will help your mood and make you feel better about yourself in the long run.
4. Learn A New Language
Some of you might already know several languages and/or you might think this is pointless, but for where I am in my life, this is something I’ve wanted to do for a long time and just have put it off for a while. So, in that case, that is learning a new language for me, but think about what you have wanted to do for a long time now and just haven’t done it yet. Do that!
However, if you can’t think of anything else, learning a new language is a really cool attribute to have.
I use the app called Duolingo on the AppStore and it is also free. It is super cool and helpful & you can pick whichever language you would like to learn. Plus, I am a visual learner so it is really good for me, but it combines all ways of learning for your convenience.
5. Be Creative
Dancing, Singing, Writing, Drawing, Painting, Playing an Instrument, Sewing, TieDying, Remodeling, Playing Games, Stretching, Organizing.. whatever being creative means to you. Maybe you want to stick with something you know, or maybe you want to jump outside your comfort zone. Either decision is a good decision when being creative. You can’t go wrong. This is what my family chose to do one night for fun, trying to create memories.
It’s a great way to explore a different side of you that you may not work very often. Even as an adult, there are always things we can work on and improve. Self development is such a beautiful thing, because we can do so much more than what we think we are capable of.
Oh & this one was a good time too!
Whether you try new things or try old things, try things.
And An Extra One..
6. Do Something Nice For Someone
This past month has been a new way of life for everyone. We are all working on figuring this out one day at a time, the best way we can. And it’s especially hard to not get consumed with our own life and own problems, and super easy to not think about how your friends and family are dealing with the pandemic, as well.
So, I urge you to reach out to people. Ask them how they’re doing and if they’re okay.
Send someone a letter, FaceTime them, pay for the person’s meal behind you in line, tell people that you’re grateful for them, because spreading love and happiness is even more necessary now, than before. Doing something nice for someone is a win win situation, and does good all the way around. Whenever you’re in a mood, think about what you could do to cheer someone else up, and lift your spirits, too.
Therefore, next time you’re sitting around the house, staring at your phone or watching the TV for the third hour in a row and haven’t done anything productive, maybe try one of these things. I hope it helps you!
Skylar Hasseman
