We are all trying our best to take part in slowing the spread of COVID-19 in our communities. Many of us stay at home as much as possible and practice social distancing when in public. Although limiting our social interactions can protect ourselves from the virus, it can seriously affect our physical and mental health.

If you’re looking for healthy and enjoyable ways to spend your time during the pandemic, keep on reading!

Take a break from social media

Social media helps us stay connected to each other and the world, especially during these times of separation. Those same platforms, however, can expose us to current events that show stories of crises and disturbing images without warning. After a certain point, social media can overwhelm us with news that brings anxiety and worry rather than information. Putting your phone down and taking a step back from the constant bombardment of posts can settle your mind and help the intense feelings to fade.

Journaling

Set aside 10 minutes every day to focus on your mental health. Journaling can help alleviate anxiety and stress, improve emotional power and allow for reflection on the day. Other than recording daily events, you could try writing a gratitude journal. Reflecting on the thankfulness you feel during the day can bring positive energy and brighten your mind.

At-home workouts

It isn’t easy to get enough exercise when we spend most of our time indoors. Therefore, it is essential to force yourself to engage in physical activity. Exercising releases beneficial hormones such as endorphins that boost your mood and reduce stress. There are plenty of workout videos online and free fitness applications that you can follow without gym equipment. You can also find videos that focus on specific parts of the body that you want to train!

Make healthy snacks

Snack wisely by replacing your potato chips with fruits and veggies. Consuming sugary and fatty foods can be a contributor to depression and poor mental health. Healthy diets can help you cope with these problems and boost your overall immune health. Even if you choose to skip out on baby carrots, try making your snack using healthy ingredients! You can find joy while making and eating them. You can find different snack recipes here.

Gardening

Going out in the sun for fresh air and an adequate amount of vitamin D is important, especially today. Gardening has always been known as a relaxing activity for those who enjoy spending time in their backyards. With many people confined to their homes during COVID-19, now is a wonderful time to grow a garden full of your favorite plants. Along with a decent amount of time spent outdoors, gardening can provide great personal rewards and emotional comfort at the same time.

Keep a regular routine

With school and most events shifted online, it is easy to let loose and watch time fly away. To combat this possibility, create a daily schedule that you can be consistent with. A routine with both sleep and meal schedules can help with the function of circadian rhythm, our body’s internal clock. When disrupted, circadian rhythm can be associated with decreased feelings of well-being. Keeping a daily routine can help you stay motivated and enhance your quality of life.

Plan for a future vacation

Although now may not be the right time for leisurely travel, it doesn’t mean that trip planning is also canceled. Even during a pandemic, thinking about travel can make you happy and dreamy. Searching for hotels, tour options and famous restaurants in your ideal vacation place as you plan for a perfect post-pandemic vacation can be almost as enjoyable as going on the trip itself. Looking ahead to your next adventure could lighten your mood and deliver excitement that recently has been rare to experience.