Before getting into this post, I just want to say I hope you guys are all staying safe and healthy in this uncertain time. Unfortunately, in order to do that, social distancing and self-quarantine are necessary. However, this indoor time doesn't have to be a negative experience. We can take this time to try new things, reflect, and organize our spaces and minds. I know it is probably difficult to maintain an optimistic attitude right now, but once you do, this whole experience will be much more bare-able.
Remember; we are all in this together!
I've personally been mostly inside for the past six days at this point. During this time I compiled a list of things to do indoors (or in your yard). I thought I'd share some of these ideas since we are all just trying to keep ourselves occupied and productive while being inside. Hopefully you'll try some of these out! Let me know if you do by tagging me on Instagram @essentiallyember!
1. Try out a new recipe
Right now is the perfect time to cook or bake something that you've been wanting to try but never had the time to make! So far I've made crepes, chocolate pretzels, and tried a new mug recipe! Yes I know these are all desserts buuuut dessert makes me happy and I think we all need a little of that right now. Anyways, I've linked some super simple recipes that don't require a lot ingredients since you may be trying to preserve the food you have! You could always just grab some box mix or pre-made dough and enjoy your easy desserts while watching a movie!
2) Make a fort
Yes I know this seems a little childish, but who doesn't enjoy a good ol' fort! You can channel your little kid energy and spend at least an hour constructing the perfect fort! It's a great way to pass time and you can spend hours watching movies in it. And let's face it; everything is more fun in a fort.
3) Clean your room
This may not seem very exciting but you'll feel so productive afterwards!
4) Clean your shoes
I think most of us probably have a pair of white shoes that look a little crusty. Personally, I cleaned my Nike Air Force 1's and it took about an hour. You'll feel super productive and feel like you have a new pair of shoes! I linked the method I used below.
5) Draw or paint
Grab some of your old art supplies and paint anything! You can use regular paper if you don't already have a canvas or you can get creative and paint rocks from your own backyard! Just let yourself get creative and have fun with whatever you draw or paint!
6) Have a self-care day
This is a great way to pass time and also relax. Grab a face mask (or make one!), light a candle, and take a bubble bath! Here's some easy masks and scrubs you can make at home!
7) Try new make-up/hair looks
Get creative and experiment with some fun make-up or hair looks you've never tried! You might discover a new go-to style and if it looks bad, no one will see! Check out my hair/make-up Pinterest board @Essentially Ember for some inspiration!
8) Try new nail looks
Since most nail salons are closed, take this opportunity to do your own nails and maybe learn a new skill!
9) Tie-dye some old clothes
Check your wardrobe for white clothes you don't wear or any clothes that have stains, these are the perfect items to tie dye! This is a super affordable activity as well, I ordered a full tie dye kit from Amazon for less than $15! If you order it online and get it delivered then you don't need to go out for any supplies. If you don't have an Amazon account, you could also order the dye on a craft store website (such as Micheals) and go pick it up the same day.
10) Make music playlists
I personally find making playlists super fun and relaxing. Make a Spotify or Apple Music account and create fun playlists for different occasions; summer, relaxation, or driving.
11) Have a photoshoot in your room
You don't need to be outside to snap some great pictures! If you want a plain background for your pictures you can hang a bedsheet and pose in front of that! You can also get really creative with your outfits and make up to make the pictures more interesting. I did my own indoor photoshoot using self-timer and my phone! As long as you get creative and have fun, your photos will turn out great! I've also saved a bunch of photo ideas and poses on my Pinterest if you want some inspiration!
12) Plan outfits
Go through your closet and put together some cute outfits you'd like to wear and haven't before, then take a picture or write them down in a journal. Afterwards, you'll have a little mini outfit collection that you can look at whenever you feel like you have nothing to wear!
13) Make a picture collage
If you have a Costco membership you can order pictures for really affordable prices and get them delivered to your door! Otherwise, you can print out pictures at home and put them on your wall (they will be just as cute!)
14) Try a workout challenge
Since pretty much most sports, gyms, and fitness classes are cancelled, it's a great time to try out an at-home workout challenge! There are tons of 30 day or two week challenges on Youtube for free! They are a super fun way to stay motivated and active while stuck inside. Make sure you are being safe and only follow routines from experienced/certified fitness Youtubers! 💪
15) Clean out your school bag/binders
If you're in high school or college, chances are your classes are cancelled for a few weeks. Although it may not seem very fun or exciting, right now is the perfect time to organize your backpacks and binders. You'll feel ready to go back to school with all your work organized!
16) Make a club penguin account
Yes I knowwwww I'm 17 years old but club penguin is still fun and that will never change. It's free, there's games, and you can spend hours on it. What's not to love?
17) Write in a journal
In potentially stressful times like these it's important to check in with yourself and address any fears or anxiety. It is very healthy and therapeutic :) Also, your future self will probably be interested in what you were doing during quarantine.
18) Self tan
Hey if it turns out bad no one will see 👀
19) Dye your hair (temporarily)
Pretty much the same thing as above. Plus we tryin' to glow up ya know?
Please ask your parents😬
20) Organize your closet
If you're like me, your dresser or closet probably gets pretty messy. Take some time to fold all your clothes or hang them back up! You might come across clothes you forgot about or wanna get rid of!
21) School work!!!
Ahhhh yes. Work. Bet you guys weren't expecting this fun little bonus. I know a lot of us are probably using this time to relax and gather ourselves (which is totally good and healthy). Buuuuut sooner or later we've gotta face those online assignments. Just set aside an hour per day to work and you'll feel less stressed and more productive. :)
Stay safe and educated guys! If you want information about developments related to COVID-19, I have some resources linked below. As we gather more information it is crucial for us to all do our part in slowing the virus down. So please stay inside as much as possible (even if you're young) and wash your hands!
We are all in this together! ❤️
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2020/03/13/815502262/flattening-a-pandemics-curve-why-staying-home-now-can-save-lives