This is a blog post no one wants to read, but here we are. A month or so in, I still find it hard to believe that quarantine life has become the new normal. No travel, no seeing friends, and no proper exploration of my new city. Rather than write about the COVID-19 pandemic, or the projected outcomes, this post is intended to bring distraction and light, and to share suggestions of ways to stay busy during our current states of isolation.
So, what have I personally been up to?
Business, as usual. I had already transitioned to a work from home arrangement with my recent move to Charlotte, so not much has changed (for me) between the hours of 9 and 5. Very grateful to be employed. Matt is now working from home, as well, so we’ve had to get creative with work space. Because he’s constantly on calls, I gave him the office and I’m now working from a nook in the kitchen. But it’s a cute nook! I ordered a desk and chair and have enjoyed decorating this new area.
Suggestion: cozy up your work space, making sure it’s ergonomic and full of positive energy. Plants and art are helpful.
I’m a Yale University student. Not really, but I am auditing Yale’s free “Science of Well-Being” course. The instructor uses research to reveal our misconceptions about happiness and provides steps for living a more fulfilling life. What better time than now to learn how to be happier?
Suggestion: find one new thing to learn during quarantine. Matt purchased a heavily discounted Rosetta Stone membership and is practicing German. Nikon is offering free camera lessons through April. I’ve been learning Tiktok dances (sorry, not sorry).
Just call me ‘Mountain Mama.‘ I knew I’d be in the mountains more after moving west, but didn’t realize it would happen 3 out of 4 weekends in a single month. Since outdoor exercise is still allowed, we’ve jumped in the car and driven to various trails that remain open throughout the Appalachian. Social distancing has been easy enough as there aren’t many people around. During these hikes, I’ve completely forgotten about the unsettling state of today’s world. We hope to turn one of the next mountain trips into an overnight camping adventure.
Suggestion: if you can safely and responsibly walk or hike, go for it. If you see others on the trail, maintain a distance of several feet. Nature is medicine gifted from the Earth.
I’ve experimented with trending recipes. I still can’t cook – and thankfully Matt handles 95% of our meals (while I clean) – but I’ve now made a delicious “not-so-whipped” coffee, and chocolate chip banana bread.
Suggestion: create something you’ve never made before. This might be food but it could also be art, music, or a blog.
Still searching for the simple pleasures. I’ve been walking different directions from my apartment to see what I can discover. So far, I’ve found funky street art, a few new parks, and a nice bottle shop with curbside beer-to-go. I’ve also been enjoying this nice spring weather on my balcony. Watching the sunset might be my favorite time of the day.
Suggestion: grab your camera and snap three things that you find uniquely beautiful. This can be a blossoming flower, a colorful sunset, or your pet being cute – it’s up to you but keep it simple! The goal is to capture every day things that spark joy.
Lots of virtual time with friends and family. The silver lining through this craziness is that we’re all a bit more connected these days. I’ve Facetimed with people, celebrated birthdays and conquered Passover seders through Zoom, and played games through the Houseparty app. Very grateful for modern day technology!
Suggestion: call that friend who means a lot to you that you haven’t spoken with in ages, or organize a Zoom call for a grand parent’s birthday. Not being together in person doesn’t mean we have to lose connection.
A few other fun things: I’ve learned how to play chess and disc golf for the first time. I had two luxurious epson salt baths (hadn’t taken a bath in years)! I’ve done some YouTube yoga and attempted meditation. I bought some new plants – hooray for indoor city gardening. And I’ve done so much more reading! Here are some of my recent favorites:
If the status of your quarantine life is just existing or doing nothing, know that is COMPLETELY fine. As if we haven’t heard the word enough lately, this is an unprecedented time, and it’s understandable to experience varying emotions and levels of energy. If you know my personality, I’m an adventure junkie, so it’s imperative that I stay busy – but that’s just me! Above all else, please take care of yourselves and stay healthy. We are going through this together, and we will persevere. Much love to all.
