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The Coronavirus is ravaging most countries of the world and I hope you are doing your part to save lives, by practicing isolation. The truth is – the world is sick, and the singular most potent way to heal the world is to stay indoors as experts have said.

But as we have learned, isolating can be difficult. It has taken a toll on the way we relate to one another. You first learn not to stretch your hands for a handshake or a hug. You learn to remain at home, no movie nights with friends, and no close contacts within the prescribed 6 feet distance. You sit still for hours on end and idle away on the internet. Perhaps the most difficult effect of social distancing is the toll it has had on our work life. Many of us have been asked to stay at home and work remotely.

However personally, I have chosen to see this period- of isolation as a gift. We don’t get the time off work and daily hustles every day, and so we must reevaluate, build and re-strategize with the freedom that life has gifted us. In this piece, I will outline a few ways in which we can maximize, the period of isolation.

DONT……

Lay in bed all day and every day

Do not lie in bed all through the day, occupy yourself with various activities.

Binge watch the news and movies

Let’s be honest, the news is going to fuel your anxiety about the spread of the virus. It is in your best interest to stay off the news once in a while.

Stay glued to your mobile phones and the internet

Staying glued to social media can be unhealthy. I understand the need to be in touch with friends, loved ones and the latest social trends, however, taking a break once in a while could be healthy for the mind.

Eat uncontrollably or eat badly

In these times, you need a healthy immune system to fight against any possible infection of the covid19. So while in isolation, eat well.

DO….

DO……

Exercise the body

Since gyms are closed and movements have been limited, many people are struggling to keep exercising as they used to. Fitness DVDs, online classes, dancing, fitness Apps, cleaning, gardening, and walking are ways that you can exercise the body while isolating.

Learn a skill

Learn that new recipe, or take an online course in these weeks of isolation. This way you open up your mind and keep it young and alive.

Use music to pass time

Update your playlist and pass time with songs from your favorite artists.

Read books

Reading helps you grow mentally, emotionally and psychologically, so why not read books while you distance yourself in these times.

Schedule family time activities

Family is everything, so why not schedule a game night with your spouse or movie time for the kids. See this time as an opportunity to enrich and improve your relationships.

Author(s)

  • Jennifer Nagu

    Writer, Editor, and Aviation professional.

    Jennifer Nagu is a Lagos based Freelance-writer, editor and Aviation professional, specializing in Aviation, wellness and travel related matters. She has published work with notable media platforms across Africa, like Ynaija of the Red media group, Guardian Nigeria Newspaper, Bellanaija,  Ndalo media's Habari Magazine, aviator Africa magazine amongst others. She holds a degree in communications from Covenant univerity and an IATA diploma in Airline Quality diploma from Geneva. She is passionate about mental health related issues, wellness and inclusion.