Five Things to Do at Home During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

In these times of social distancing, quarantine, and the limiting of activities considered “non-essential” the novel Coronavirus is creating a new reality for many of us. Earlier today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau pleaded with Canadians to follow public health guidelines on COVID-19 and stated “enough is enough”, ‘go home and stay home”.

I wanted to keep these tips light, open and optimistic. Here are five things you can do at home during this pandemic. Let’s make good use of our time.

Show Solidarity and Support.

In these times think of the elderly, those who are not well, consider the most vulnerable. You can show support for friends and loved ones. Which you can do by:

• Following public health guidelines on COVID-19 
• Provide emotional support to those in need. Many people may not have the support system that you may have. Pick up the phone; call or text those who may be alone or lonely.
• Share resources, be considerate when shopping and offer help to those who are less accessible to their essentials. 

Remember the Perks and Positives.

Many employees have now been rendered to working remotely or with limited staff on sites and offices. While physical interactions may be limited think of all of the perks!

• Cutting commute times
• Eat healthier home-cooked meals
• Spend more time with family 
• Setting a consistent sleep schedule every night 
• Work out, reflect, and relax

Remember, it’s okay to be afraid, have negative emotions, or feel self-doubt. This new (but temporary) reality can take a toll on a person’s psyche. As cliche as it sounds this a perfect time to come together collectively and spread positive vibes. 

Educate Yourself.

You don’t want to be too ‘conscious’ or ‘woke’ on this matter and allow yourself to be oblivious to the severity of the times that we are in. Now is not the time for conspiracy theories. Don’t be ignorant; don’t share non-credible sources, incite fear or panic, or create subterfuge out of misinformation. Use your time wisely and read science-based data, review public health guidelines, and practice proper personal hygiene. 

Be Present with toddlers, kids and teenagers.

I don’t have children so I’m not an expert on this. I can however, empathize with parents right now dealing with school, childcare, nurseries closures for what maybe for the next few months. My advice is simple – cut yourself some slack. You’re doing a great job turning something out of nothing and you should be proud. Also, get used to the mess, and do things out of the ordinary. Having boundaries and structure will have the kids having something to look forward to so they are not always in front of a screen. Reassure them that everything will be okay (it will) and talk to them; whether it’s about healthier eating or asking them to help you with dinner keeping them engaged is time well spent! 

Do What You Love.

Write a list, pull out that violin from your closet, reconnect with a friend, plan or organize the next few weeks/months, better yet start your spring cleaning. Life is all about finding our purpose. The so-called ‘rat race’ has slowed down, don’t let this crisis stop you from making the most of this pandemic. Of course, be responsible and realistic but make sure you are productive. Here are some more ideas of things to do during this lockdown.

• Workout from home
• Meditate 
• Pray
• Netflix and chill
• Cook
• Read
• Organize 
• Quality family time

Have any more tips? Share them below!