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Self Isolating? How to Stay Sane!

By April 13, 2020January 18th, 2022No Comments
self isolating woman staring out the window

Because of the coronavirus we are self isolating and spending almost all our time at home.  Some of us will get cabin fever, especially those who live alone. Thankfully there are things we can do about that! Not only can you keep up with friends and family through technology, but there are also many low-tech ways to be social and beat the boredom.

You may want to consider the following:

Virtual coffee chats and dinners

Get together with friends you may have planned to meet for coffee, lunch or dinner but via video chat. You have plenty of options in tech that can be used on your computer and/or smartphone and tablet.

Brew some coffee or your favorite tea and start up your Facetime, WhatsApp, Google Hangouts, Skype or any other video call app. You could even arrange to open one of the apps as you and a friend sit down for dinner in your respective homes and have some nice conversation over a meal.

Virtual gyms

If you have a regular class with a yoga instructor, ask if they want to start conducting their classes by video. There are a few teleconferencing applications that allow for a conference call-type format where participants are given a password to join the meeting.

The instructor can then teach the class to anyone of their current customers that wants to join. Check your existing gym membership, many gyms now offer virtual classes as well. And many are also offering free classes online. Classes that are geared for groups are the most conducive to online training, such as Zumba, Pilates, yoga and aerobics-type sessions.

Exercise is a great avenue to reduce  anxiety and clear your mind. One of the best ways to fight the stagnation of  self isolating is to continue to breathe properly and keep moving. Movement has an amazing effect on your mood and outlook.

Go for a walk

You can go on a walk to get the blood pumping. During this time of self isolation, it’s important that you get some form of exercise and long brisk walks are not only good for you, but they also tend to cheer you up.

If you have a dog, you can use this time to give your pet extra walks. Your pooch will never decline an invitation for a walk, and a pup can keep you company.

Reach out to your parents and grandparents

Many seniors are living alone and this time of self isolation may cause loneliness. Use your newfound free time to keep in touch with your parents, grandparents and other seniors.

Use an app with video features. They will appreciate that you are checking on them and they will be happy to see your face. You can even organize one of those coffees or dinners with them, as well.

Establish a routine

Don’t just veg out on the couch and binge-watch TV shows all day. It’s best if you can establish a routine.  Resist the urge to stay up late watching movies or TV. Try to keep the same routine you had before the outbreak.

Virtual book groups

You may also be taking the time to catch up on your reading. Perhaps you could organize a book group with friends and family. Pick a book for your group to read and then have regular video chat meetings to discuss the book, your opinions and thoughts.

Learn something new

Have you always wanted to be able to play the piano or guitar or bake bread or make yogurt? Now may be the time to check out one of the  many free online learning site.  You could even try your hand at learning a new language.  Click here to find a list of 450 Ivy League courses you can take for free!

The takeaway

It’s hard to fight the boredom and taking the path of least resistance if you are self isolating, but you should try to focus on taking care of your body, mind and emotional well-being during this time.

And taking time to be in touch with others can stave off your loneliness and help you keep connected with the people you care about.

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