Tuesday, March 24, 2020

Unprecedented Times

I know everyone in the whole world is facing a lot of unknowns and things that are increasing our anxiety. I wanted to let everyone know that I am still here even though my blog posts have been sporadic.  Here are some things you can do to help keep your mind off uncertainties and the craziness of the world.


Talking a walk (if your state/country allows it) - getting some sunlight not only boosts your spirits but you get a nice fresh breath of air and you can get some Vitamin D. Pokemon Go or Wizards Unite anyone? Just remember the 6 feet distance away from people rule. 

Reading a book - By reading you can escape to the depths of another world. Immerse yourself into a fantasy, horror, contemporary, thriller, sci-fi or even a non-fiction novel. There is a book for everyone. Try an audiobook if it's hard to focus reading. Libraries are providing many free digitally recourses like free e-books and audiobooks to borrow from. All you need is a library card. Check out Libby and  Hoopla. 

Playing video games - Discover new worlds through a video game. I am partial to playing Pokemon, Fantasy Life and Kirby but I am waiting for my copy of the latest Animal Crossing to arrive.

Playing board games - Tabletop gaming with your household is a fun way to interact with others and to bond. Play a favorite or try a new one. There are so many to choose from. 

Video conferencing - Meeting with friends and family virtually will help you stay connected with people face to face even if you cannot visit them physically. Many companies have lifted some pro capabilities. Check out Google Hangouts, Skype, Facebook video chat and Zoom. 

Online messaging - You can also stay connected with people online via various messaging apps like Facebook Messenger, DMing/PMing on Twitter or Instagram, or using Discord, Line, WeChat, WhatsApp, etc.

Crafting - Why not pick up a new crafting project or even a new hobby? I am hoping to start needle felting and learning how to do lettering sometime soon.

Cooking and baking - Stuck at home and you need to eat? Why not try a new recipe? Hone your cooking and baking skills while trying something new. Open up your palette to new dishes.

Watching TV - Whether it be movies or shows on Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, regular TV, etc., enjoy a new movie or binge watch some episodes of a new series. Netflix has a Netflix Party mode where you can watch a movie or episode with other people remotely.

Cleaning - It's that time for spring cleaning, at least here where I am located. This is a good time to declutter your home space. With many people working remotely, help create a more ideal work and living space.

Deep breathing and mediation - Find those anxious parts of you and attend to your mental health needs. Take deep breaths, meditate, do yoga, listen to calming music. Apps like Headspace and Calm might be helpful

Listen to music - Music transports your mind and feelings to another place that is different from a visual mode. Jam out to your favorites, reminisce nostalgia or discover some new tunes.

Learn a new language - Always wanted to learn a new language? This is the best time to do it. There are lots of videos online and apps like Duolingo.


Just remember what Dumbledore mentioned in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, "Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light." We all can find a silver lining. We can find that sliver of sunlight amongst the darkest cloud. We will get through these dark times. We just need to be patient and we need to work together. Just like in the Battle of Hogwarts, we must work as a team in order for good to prevail for everyone.

Image from Pinterest

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