Due to the global pandemic and related lockdowns imposed by national governments, most people have to deal with a number of consecutive days ‘stuck’ within the same four walls.
Although restrictions are starting to loosen up and we are able to see the light at the end of the tunnel (fingers crossed) thanks to the rapid administration of vaccines, we are still advised to stay at home and leave the house only for specific necessities. As such, we currently have limited opportunities for outdoor activities.
Now my question is, what about indoor activities? If you are or feel like you will be stuck at home for a number of days due to the pandemic, there are many activities that you can engage with in order to avoid boredom.
Here I discuss some of the indoor activities that I have done or I am planning to do during lockdown or self-isolation, hoping it might offer some fresh ideas to other students as well.
Cooking
Interestingly enough, I have cooked more during these past twelve months of a pandemic than in the other years of my life combined. It was something that has always been at the top of my to-learn list, and the plenty of time that I had throughout these recent times allowed me to learn a useful skill;
Reading
Either books that are related to your field of study or the biography of your favourite actors. We all know that reading provides plenty of benefits and, if this is not something that you were interested in before like I was, you definitely have time now to give it a try. I can assure you that it is worth it. Kindle and Kindle Premium are a go-to for me.
Employability
In case you are a final year student, you know that the time to start applying for graduate schemes or direct entry role has already begun. In case you do not have a well-structured CV or a persuasive LinkedIn account, two vital tools for applying for jobs, it might be time to make up for it now. Have access to University’s resources, watch videos related to the matter, and do not wait until the end of your studies before looking for graduate positions.
Workout
Although you might not be able to go to the park for a simple jog or to the gym for a proper workout session, there are still plenty of physical activities that you can do at your home. Decide on what to work on and how to do it (core, legs, yoga, simple stretching) and start looking for videos that provide you with guidance on the steps that you should take. Youtube is full!
Learn something new
A trick or a skill that is useful for your everyday life or even something that catches your curiosity. Myself, I started learning Swedish through ‘Duolingo’, an app that teaches the basics of more than 30 different languages with simple techniques and everyday exercises. If you want to spend time learning a new language and becoming a polyglot, this might be the perfect occasion.
Always remember, we should take advantage of every situation that comes across our paths. No matter the circumstances, our aim should always be to improve ourselves.
