Being alone but not lonely – what to do while self-isolating

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The isolation period is well underway for many people. Finding fun things to do to keep your brain and body active may seem like an impossible task, but try not to despair, we’ve got some suggestions that just might help.

The best thing you can do during this worrying time is to distract yourself! Although it’s important to stay up to date with current developments, there’s loads of things you can do instead of obsessively tuning in to overwhelming news.

Everything below can be done by yourself, so if you’re living alone or self-isolating by yourself, you’re in the right place!

1. Spring clean

One of the best ways of avoiding cabin fever is having something to do with your hands. Studies have shown that cleaning can help reduce stress and anxiety levels, which may understandably be higher than usual at the moment.

Cleaning and decluttering can be quite a hefty job and often takes ages to do, so it’s a great way to pass some time.

Finally, being able to sit in a clean and tidy space will be appreciated much more now that you’re spending all your time at home! Go on, get dusting!

Here’s some great tips to get you started.

2. Do what you’ve always been meaning to do

Everyone has a thing that they’ve always been meaning to do. You know what we’re talking about. Whether it’s learning to bake sourdough, start journaling, learning Korean or updating your CV – take this time to do it!

Stop putting it off and just sit down and do it! You’ll feel an amazing sense of accomplishment once you’re done and may even feel inspired to do more.

Here are some great hobbies that you can do alone.

3. Video chat with your friends or family

There are loads of apps out there for video chatting, so why not schedule in some quality time with your loved ones?

Whether you just want a good chinwag, or maybe play some games with some friends, there are loads of ways in which you can do it.

Of course, it’s not as good as being with them in the flesh, but it’s the next best thing during lockdown.

Here are some of the best video chatting apps.

4. Prioritise self-care

In stressful times, self-care is vital for maintaining good mental health, and the great thing about it is that it’s different for everyone!

The beauty of self-care is that it is whatever you want it to be. Whether it’s reading a book, wearing a facemask or playing a videogame, do something that calms you down.

Try making a tasty meal out of what you have and dedicate the day to yourself. No guilt allowed, only joy and relaxation.

Here are some ideas for self-care.

5. Watch some livestreams

Loads of orchestras, opera companies and musicians are performing live online, and in many cases for free!

Many artists are live streaming on Instagram, so make sure you follow your favourite singer to keep updated.

It’s a great way of watching something that for now can’t take place the normal way.

Here’s a great list of the livestreams to watch out for.

6. Take a virtual tour

Missing your visits to museums, parks and even different countries? Not to worry, there’s now a way to see everything you’re missing, but from the comfort of your own home!

It’s a great way to keep your brain culturally stimulated.

Take a look here to find out what tours you can take.

7. Cook something

Now you’ve got more time than usual, why not pick up your frying pan and get cooking?

Challenge yourself to try and cook something new at least once a week. Try out new cuisines or different ingredients if you really want to push yourself.

You may have heard we’ve teamed up with food blogger, Mark Popkiewicz , to provide low-cost, quick and nutritious recipes on a regular basis. For those keen to find out more about Mark before testing out his dishes, you can read our Q&A with the chef here. New recipes will be up next week so make sure to check back.

8. Get moving

It many feel that you can’t get adequate exercise without leaving your house, but that’s not actually true!

There are loads of online workouts you can do from the comfort of your own home,

Exercise helps both your physical and mental health and is a perfect way to pass time.

Click here for some great online workout videos you can do at home.

9. Catch up on TV

Never got around to watching Stranger Things? Missed the Game of Thrones hype? Got a massive list on Netflix that you always seem to put off watching? Now’s your chance to binge, and binge hard.

Here’s a great list of stuff to watch now.

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