It's hard waking up day after day knowing that you most likely won't step foot outside your door. Maybe by this time, my 44th day of quarantine, I should be used to this routine. For me though, something about not seeing friends and classmates is something that I haven't gotten used to as of yet.

However, there are some incredibly helpful (and simple) ways I've been able to maintain my overall sanity from the "required" comfort of my own bedroom.

The main thing that has helped me endure the woes of quarantine is practicing a positive mindset. Practicing such a mindset can be exceedingly difficult, especially when most people say, "Just think happy thoughts!" A lot more goes into growing a positive mindset than that!

Primarily, there are two steps to building a positive mindset. One: Immediately replace every negative thought, no matter how slight, with its converse. For example, you may think, "Quarantine is going to last forever", but try instead to replace that thought with something like, "Quarantine won't last long if we all do our part and stay home now". Even if you absolutely, positively do NOT believe one word of your "re-framed" statement, practicing this simple step will (believe it or not) over time actually rewire your brain to automatically replace negative attitudes and thoughts with positive ones. With consistent practice and diligence, you may find yourself (mostly) never thinking negatively again!

The second step to building a positive mindset is one that we all have probably heard before; keep your mind ACTIVE! The more time you have to ruminate about possible negative situations, the worse you will end up feeling. In other words, find a new hobby to explore, or better yet, go outside! Increasing your intake of vitamin D from the sun is directly correlated with increased serotonin levels, which raise your happiness levels.

A few other small ways outside of a positive mindset that can help you stay sane during quarantine are: face-timing a friend once a day, exercising, doing an art project, or playing peppy music!