Whether we like it or not, many of us will be spending a lot more time at home in the coming weeks and, perhaps, months. Even when the cloud lifts from the coronavirus outbreak, it might take some time for routines to go back to normal.
We are told that it's a golden opportunity to catch up on our favourite television box-sets and movies, with the latter being reinforced by the fact that many films will go straight to streaming platforms given cinema closures.
However, if you think that binge-watching content while sequestered in your home is the answer to keep you in the right frame of mind, you are in for a shock. There is only so much you can take before it stops feeling like a treat. Moreover, if you have children at home at this time, it's clearly a good idea to do stuff other than watch television.
Increasingly, there is evidence of people finding pleasure in more simple activities. Twitter and Instagram are awash with videos of people baking for the first time, doing arts and crafts, composing music, and generally finding solace in activities that they would otherwise not have the time to do.
Choose activities with long-term outcomes
One of the best bits of advice is to work on activities that have a long-term outcome. By doing so, it helps you break-up the weeks and not search for a new activity each day. Those who were quarantined after being exposed to coronavirus shared some advice, and among the obvious tips like not forgetting the wine, having long term goals for projects kept coming up.
This could be something like a jigsaw puzzle (a sophisticated one will take you longer than you might think), or something more extensive like researching a family tree. The DNA test cost to explore the latter can be remarkably affordable, and it sets you on a path of discovery that goes well beyond what you find in the test results. Starting a basic language course using apps like Babbel is also a great option for giving yourself a long-term goal.
Technology can play a role, of course. If you want to do something cultural, then why not take a virtual tour of a museum from the comfort of your home? Many of the world's major museums and art galleries now offer virtual tours, and it's an excellent way to get the kids to do something wholesome during this time.
Check out gaming streaming services
We mentioned that over-indulging on Netflix and Disney movies might be a bad idea, but there has been a new-found appreciation for video games. Again, rationing out the time spent gaming is paramount, and we would point you to games with long-term outcomes. For instance, Football Manager 2020 is a good option for those who miss the lack of live sports on television at the moment.
If you are new to gaming, or perhaps a returnee, then check out subscription services like Apple Arcade or Google Stadia. They will offer a library of games, meaning you don't have to make a single purchase and stick with it. The fact that fresh content is added to the library regularly also helps.
Of course, you can't beat the most tried and tested means of long-term entertainment - a book. Do you remember back in 2003 when you promised you would read Tolstoy's War and Peace? Well, now is the time to dust off that old volume and give it a go. Books like that can be heavy going, both literally and metaphorically; so set yourself a goal of a couple of chapters per day - you have the time.
Above all, it should go without saying to do everything in proportion. That goes for how you eat and drink, as well as how you entertain yourself. We don't know how long this will last, but it's best to treat your diet lifestyle as if this is not a temporary measure. We all need treats, sure. But make sure it is in moderation.
