By now you’ve probably been working at home for at least 2 to 3 weeks. If you’re like most people, you’re probably starting to go a little stir crazy! Don’t worry, that’s completely normal. When you are used to going to work every day, it can take some time to adjust to being stuck at home. After all, it’s not like you can take a break and go to a restaurant for lunch to get out of the house.
So, what can you do to keep your sanity while you are quarantined at home? Here are some ways to keep yourself (and your family) from going bonkers.
Go Outside
Going outside and being in nature (yes even in the big cities there is nature) relieves your stress and boosts your mood. Take a walk and enjoy the fact that it’s not crowded. This is the perfect time to practice mindfulness.
When you are mindful, you notice the breeze in your face, the color of the leaves on the trees, and the birds flying by. Being mindful allows you to stay in the moment which keeps your mind off of the anxiety you feel being stuck at home.
Plan A Virtual Game Night
Whether it’s with family or friends set aside a Saturday night (or whichever night works best) and have a game night. Games like Pictionary, Trivial Pursuit or even Headband can be played virtually. You just have to get creative! You can even make up your own quiz game with Quizlet. Find a game that everyone has and take turns just like you would in person.
Use any of the free conference platforms with video chat, such as Facetime or Hangouts, gather your group, and go for it! Connecting with others is important for your wellbeing and you don’t feel so isolated. You are guaranteed to laugh repeatedly which also relieves stress.
Laughter releases tension from your muscles leaving them relaxed for up to 45 minutes afterward. Here’s another perk of laughter, it boosts your immune system by decreasing the stress hormones and increasing immune cells and making you more resistant to disease.
Go on a Virtual Vacation
You might not be able to travel right now, but you can go on a virtual vacation and it’s free! Google Earth has a feature where you can take virtual tours. Go to Africa to see the animals, go to the international space center, or visit one of the 600 plus museum exhibits. You can even customize your tours. Being stuck at home doesn’t mean you’re stuck at home! This is a perfect activity to do with the family.
Being at home all the time can make you go crazy. Finding activities to help you keep your sanity can be as close as your front door or a click of your mouse. Virtual activities may become the new norm for a while. So, make a point of going outside in the fresh air and find activities online that fuel your interests, it will keep you healthy and happy!
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