15 things to do while you’re self-isolating from COVID-19

A lot of us are self-isolating at home due to Coronavirus ­– something that brings up a whole new set of challenges when we are used to living on the go. It’s normal to feel anxious. And on top of this, are also trying to navigate working remotely (and hygienically), entertaining children, keeping up relationships, and checking in on the most vulnerable people in our lives.

None of us have a tried and true action plan for how to wait out this pandemic, but there are some activities we can do from home that will make a huge difference to our mental, physical and social health. Here are 15 that will fill up your days with hope, entertainment and social connection.

1. Take a virtual field trip

Hundreds of museums, zoos and monuments around the world are providing free virtual field trips! From the Louvre, to Yellowstone National Park and even a trip to Mars, there is an online excursion for every age group.

View a list of child-friendly virtual field trips here.

View a list of further field trips (including a tour of Disneyland) here.

2. Build an obstacle course inside

Even the simplest household items can be used to create an obstacle course inside. Get the kids involved and see how they use their creativity – and it doesn’t have to be dangerous. Take a look at these videos.

3. Reach out to five people everyday, and ask how they are going

Give them a call, send a text, or write them an old-fashioned letter! Everyone is grappling with anxiety at the moment, and by checking in you remind people that we’re all in this together. Don’t know who to reach out to? Start by writing letters to your local nursing home.

4. Watch a concert online

Musicians are holding live-streaming concerts, and releasing daily performances to encourage people through self-isolation. Billboard has put together a list of concerts you can enjoy from home – see it here. If you prefer classical music, then this list from classic.fm has you covered.

5. Write notes of encouragement to supermarket staff

Customer service staff – particularly at shopping centres – have been under the pump since everyone started stock-piling toilet paper and food. Not only are they on the frontline of human contact, but they also receive the brunt of our stress, panic and aggression. Break the cycle by creating a card for staff to say thanks, or leave random notes around shopping centres! View the Kindness Pandemic Facebook group for more inspiration.

6. Free trial a streaming service

If you have ever thought about trailing a movie or TV streaming service, now is the perfect time to begin a free trial. Netflix, Disney Plus, Amazon, Hulu…the list is endless. Each platform will give you a variety of options, from movies and documentaries, to kids shows and more. Before you subscribe, set a reminder on your phone to cancel your subscription before it rolls over. Easy!

7. Foster an animal

Stuck at home? Why not go to your local animal shelter and foster an animal for a short time? Many shelters are happy for volunteers to take a dog or cat home and give it some love. And if this isn’t a possibility for you, why not volunteer to walk or play with the animals at the shelter? Everyone leaves happier!

8. Practice generosity

When everyone is stockpiling goods in fear, being generous is a radical way to boost the wellness of everybody. You could prepare an ‘emergency’ kit for an vulnerable neighbour, or ask them if you can pick up anything from the shops (these coupons are a great option to reduce contact). Some people are even giving away toilet paper, or simply helping others grab items from the top shelf at the store.

9. Support local businesses

Lots of small businesses and local creatives are doing it tough right now. Events are cancelled, hours are reduced, and some people have no means of income. That’s where we can make a difference – think about what birthdays or events you have coming up, and buy a gift certificate to spend at a later date! If the business ships items online, then head over to their website and purchase something to read or do during isolation.

10. Educate your kids

Parents and guardians are superheroes, and many are tackling home schooling for the first time during COVID-19. Thankfully, there are lots of options to entertain and educate your kids. Start with a pdf download of this kids book about COVID-19, go on a virtual field trip, and check out Scholastic’s free daily courses for kids.

11. See a movie

You may be at home, but you can still take yourself to the movies. Grab some popcorn, lower the lights, and watch a new release. Disney Plus just released Frozen 2 and Stargirl, and have a whole catalogue of family favourites. Meanwhile, Universal has announced they are releasing their latest films for rent due to the closure of cinemas.

12. Enjoy story time!

People of all ages enjoy a good story, and the YouTube channel Story time Online has countless free videos of celebrities and authors reading your favourite kids books! Find it here.  Bonus – Josh Gad from Frozen is also doing separate live readings. Your kids will love story time with Olaf!

13. Learn abut your family history

Now is the perfect time to learn about your family history. Whether you are related by blood or love, give a grandparent figure in your life a call and ask them about their childhood. Record the call so you have their stories on record. You could even consider making a book out of it.

14. Have a street party

You can still socialize from a distance! People across the world have been spotted having dinner, music parties and exercising. What could you do to inspire your community?

15. Schedule a family fun night

Whether you live with your family, friends or some house mates, you can schedule an evening just for fun! Shut off technology for the evening, and play some old-fashioned board games. Play charades, jam out and make music, or cook together in the kitchen!

Are you anxious or overwhelmed? Watersedge is happy to provide remote counselling so you can care for your mental health while you are in self-isolation. Here’s what you need to do: Contact Colleen on 0434 337 245, Duncan on 0434 331 243 or Rachel on 0442 177 193 for a FREE 10 minute consultation on how we can best help you or book online.

Read the latest Watersege blogs around self-care during COVID-19:

8 steps to stay resilient in social isolation

5 ways you can support seniors during COVID-19

9 ways to exercise your body and mind during quarantine (and still get outdoors)

5 ways to boost your mental health during COVID-19

The Best and Worst Uses of Social Media During Quarantine

How to Sleep Better: 3 Must-Know Tips