While we're all stuck inside to help flatten the curve of the pandemic, we've all noticed one thing: it can get pretty boring real fast! To keep myself from going insane, I've asked my friends to compile a list of all of their new hobbies they've picked up over the weeks.
I hope that these 10 hobbies can bring you some new ideas on fun, and simple, things to do!
Get some yarn and knit.
One thing that lots of my friends have picked up is knitting. While it may sound like an activity for grandmother, my friends have all becoming knitting fanatics! From making scarves to blankets, knitting is something simple and relaxing to help you get through another long day at home. It's an activity that can also be done while watching Netflix, studying, or listening to podcasts. Just needing some yarn and needles, you could be making a variety of new pieces for your wardrobe.
Pick up that book you never got around to reading (we all have one!)
Let's face it: we all have at least one (or 10) books on our book shelves that we never got around to reading. Whether we've been took busy or too lazy, now is the perfect time to give it ago! It'll not only be relaxing, but will be a big boost to your mental health to just take some time to yourself and read. You can read on the couch, in a bath, in a hammock, anywhere! And if you don't have a book laying around, download a reading app!
It's important to still see the sun!
While social distancing, it is important to still go outside. One really nice and relaxing thing to do outside, away from other's of course, is to hammock in your backyard or on your porch! The weather is just now starting to get really nice, so take advantage of it. You can nap in the hammock (wear sunscreen), read, play on your phone, or FaceTime some friends! Either way, go hang outside. It'll be worth it!
Listen to a podcast!
A lot of my friends have been picking up new Podcasts to listen to. Some of the ones that they recommend are My Favorite Murder, Serial, and And That's Why We Drink. We are all major crime nuts, so these PodCasts will be right down your alley if you like that! If not I recommend Stuff You Should Know, Left Right and Center, and Why Won't You Date Me?
Bust out some old games.
A lot of my friends have become really obsessed with old games, specifically Just Dance! This game not only will bring back some great childhood memories, but will keep you moving! It's a great way to have fun while being inside, and can be a great household activity for whoever you're social distancing with. If you don't own just dance, don't worry! Why not try to learn some new TikTok dance trends or make your own.
Bake, bake, bake! NO MATTER WHAT PIC I PUT HERE IT WONT UPLOAD HELP PLS :((((((
Another classic thing to do is become a baking expert! Many of my friends have been trying their hands in the kitchen and baking various cakes, pastries, and cookies. It is so fun to see all their posts on their Instagram stories. Some easy recipes to get you started can be found here: Bon Appetit, Pinch of Yum, and Food Network.
It's time for spring cleaning anyway!
It's that time of year, so why not take advantage of it during social distancing. Clean that closet that only gets cleaned once a year, rearrange your bedroom, get donation bags together, or reorganize your pantry. There are so many things to do that will definitely keep you (and your housemates) busy for hours. If you're staying with your parents, why not go through your childhood bedroom? There's countless memories to uncover!
Let's puzzle something together.
Most of my friends have started doing puzzles through social distancing. My sorority even wants to start a puzzle group chat to share pictures of completed puzzles! Doing a puzzle is a fun task that could keep you busy for multiple days on end. And there is NO better feeling than completing a puzzle, honestly!
Have a photoshoot.
Just because you're stuck inside doesn't mean you can't have some new Instagram pictures to post! Get a cute outfit on, go wildly out of your comfort zone even, and then set up a backdrop in your house. Use paper, newspaper, various household items, anything! You have all day so you can be creative as you want. Use the time on a camera (or on your phone) and shoot away! There are plenty of free editing apps that can help you edit your pictures to look anywhere from a vintage camera to a crystal, clear professional picture.
Don't forget your friends!
And of course don't forget to check in on your friends! While some people may be totally fine during this time, other's need a lot of communication. Be sure to call your friends regularly, text them, FaceTime them, send them cute Instagram posts and tweets, or even send them a letter (yes, become a real pen-pal!!). It's so important to show friends that you care in this time apart, so be sure to be proactive about it.
We hope that these will give you some ideas of things to do during social distancing! Stay home and stay healthy!!
