It’s been two months and counting in quarantine, and we are all on the edge of our seats, wondering how, and when this nightmare is going to end. Life is uncertain right now, and aside from protecting each other and staying safe, there is nott more we can do. It can be unsettling to feel like you have no control over your situation. What we can do instead, is maintain control of what we are able to. 

Quarantine is the perfect opportunity to work on what our often busy lifestyles get in the way of. Working on ourselves will keep us positive, and allow us to walk away from this experience having gained something. 

Many are spending their free time picking up a new hobby. All this free time calls for creativity and trying new things. Some have been involved in arts and crafts such as knitting and pottery, while others are completely redecorating their living space. 

Spending the majority of our days indoors, there is no better time to get your fitness in check than right now. Online workout routines, such as Chloe Ting’s infamous challenges, are an easy at-home workout option. Equipment is not required and there are numerous different types of workouts– there is something for everyone. Additionally, this extra time has created a gateway into eating home-cooked meals more frequently. No more early morning classes or long school days; this is a great chance to focus attention on your body and healthy living.

In addition to taking care of our physical health, our mental health is just as important. 

According to an April 2020 Shape article, “the COVID-19 pandemic helps you focus on the fact that you are a human being and not a human doing.”

We are on a break from the busy, fast-paced lifestyle many of us are accustomed to. Take time to focus on yourself. Pick up a new book, start journaling or meditate when you can. This is a great opportunity to bring peace to your mind and relax. 

Being home also allows us to disconnect from the outside world, allowing us to reflect and become more self-aware. There is plenty of time to work on yourself with no distractions. 

Although not everyone is able to be surrounded by their family, those who are lucky enough to be quarantined with their family have time to focus on their loved ones. Spending time at home facilitates family bonding and re-connecting with one another– something we can all use. 

If you are looking for the positives coming out of this quarantine, these are a few ways we can take advantage of this opportunity and work on bettering ourselves.