By: Emelia Ribero, News Editor
The struggles of quarantine have hit everyone during this global pandemic. Boredom and loneliness are affecting everyone because of the legally mandated social distancing policies. It is important to keep busy during this social hiatus because many will find themselves scrolling endlessly through social media, which can take a toll on your physical and mental wellbeing. This break has created much more free time than most teens are typically used to, and many have no idea how to spend it. Using time more effectively can make this experience much more productive and enjoyable.
It is harder to stay in touch with friends over this quarantine because you would normally get to see them every day. The most effective way to talk with them is to call or text them, but that isn’t always easy, especially if you don’t really have much to talk about because you are stuck inside all day. One way to virtually spend time with your friends is through a chrome extension called “Netflix Party”. It is free to use and it allows for many people to log on through a shareable link and watch anything on Netflix in sync with your friends. There is also a chat feature that allows you to talk to each other while watching.
There are plenty of ways to play games with friends online. For starters, Club penguin, Minecraft, and Game pigeon are all things most people have heard of that are great ways to play games with friends. There is a relatively new way to play games with friends on Houseparty too. There are games such as“Heads Up!” and Trivia that you can play while on video calls. Also, on a website called scribbl.io, you can play a game like Pictionary that you can create a private party and send a link to your friends. You can play with default words or custom.
There are moments during quarantine where cabin fever hits and it feels like you need to get out of the house immediately. It can be difficult to spend every hour of the day inside with the same people. There are a few ways you can leave the house while being safe while still practicing social distancing. Going on a run or a walk is a great way to stay fit and get out of the house by yourself to get some alone time. Another way is going for a drive around the neighborhood if you have a license. It is nice to listen to music and get some time for yourself. Remember to practice social distancing measures whenever you are leaving the house.
Lastly, it important to take care of yourself both mentally and physically over quarantine. A few ways to keep yourself mentally healthy is by talking to family or friends on a daily basis. Additionally, you should do at least one or two things that are productive each day. This could include reading a book or doing school work, anything that could contribute to staying sharp. Taking care of physical health is equally as important. It is harder to do now because sports are canceled and the gym is closed. However, there are plenty of at-home exercises you can do to stay in shape. There are many free apps like “Home Workout” and “7 Minute Workout” that offer many routines that you can set the difficulty to how you like. Going for a walk is an easy way to get out and to stay physically healthy.
Taking care of yourself should be the main priority while in quarantine. It is a new situation that many people aren’t used to so it’s important to find a new routine that can keep you healthy and happy. Staying in touch with friends and staying mentally and physically active can help keep this quarantine both productive and enjoyable.