Are you getting tired of quarantine life? Many weeks of isolation have led to states “reopening,” but it’s not exactly business as usual.
The virus is as much of a threat to our personal health and wellbeing as it ever was. So, if you’re worried about getting or spreading coronavirus, as most of us are, reopening isn’t going to change very much.
So, here we sit. Bored out of our minds without much of an end in sight. And with all this isolation, many people have reason to be concerned for their mental health and sobriety. Isolation and relapse have a strong correlation, but it can be avoided.
Something has to change. But instead of shaking our fists in the air, we’ll be much better off focusing on what we can control.
There are ways to have fun during all this, and in this post, we’re going to explore six things you may not have tried.
1. Backyard movie night
You can rent or even buy an outdoor movie screen to broadcast your favorite flicks while you and the fam camp outside. Roast marshmallows, make smores and enjoy some unusual bonding time with the ones you love. You can get a projector and screen package for as low as $200. Renting is also an option, but it often works out cheaper to buy an inexpensive package.
And if you’re looking for something a little simpler, search for drive-in movie theaters in your area. You may have to drive a bit to get there, but it’s a fun and retro experience.
2. Road trip for camping
While the weather is still nice, you may want to pile everyone in the car and go on a road trip. Traveling somewhere might make it feel like you’re on a typical summer vacation instead of a quarantine getaway.
Camping is the ideal quarantine vacation (if you like that sort of thing) because it’s easy to socially distance from other campers. You just have to set up your tents far enough away.
And it’s also a great way to be in the vicinity of friends and family without actually getting too close. If you all wear masks and keep appropriate distance, you may even be able to play volleyball or cornhole. Any game where you naturally have space between teams can work.
Just be sure to research the campsite before you go. Not all of them are open yet and some are offering limited spaces.
3. Go to the beach
Beaches are now open in Florida, and although it has raised some concerns about virus spread, there are ways to enjoy the beach responsibly. Remain with the people in your household and avoid getting within six feet of anyone else. Wear a mask and avoid sunbathing. And if we’re being honest, those two things don’t work very well together anyway.
You can use your beach time to dip your toes in the water, go for a jog or just enjoy the ocean breeze.
4. Get a new toy
If you’re in a position to buy something new, now is a great time to get something that can keep you occupied for a while. Whether it’s a guitar, a video game or one of those new Genesis vehicles, treat yourself to something that will provide hours of fun in your life. We’ve reached the point where having fun feels like more of a need than a want, so give yourself a pass on this one (as long as it’s reasonably within your budget).
You may also use this time to learn a new sport like rollerblading or to practice your golf swing in the back yard.
5. Golf responsibly
When you think “social distance sport,” golf probably comes to mind. With many acres and 18 holes, you can easily distance from others who may be around. But if you want to limit your exposure to sickness, follow these guidelines:
- Wear a mask at all times
- Bring and carry your own clubs
- Walk between holes (the exercise will be good for you too!)
- Sanitize your hands after touching any common items
Because it’s relatively easy to distance during a golf game, many new players might be tempted to learn the sport. And while it’s not a good time to get one-on-one lessons, there are many online courses and YouTube videos that can help you improve your swing.
6. Go kayaking
Group kayaking tours have been canceled for obvious reasons, but (thankfully) nothing is stopping you from hopping in your own kayaking and spending the day on the water. It’s a great way to recharge those batteries as we hunker down for even more social isolation. You may be more isolated than ever on the water, but somehow, it doesn’t matter.
There are plenty of ways to have fun while limiting your exposure to sickness. You just may have to get creative to find out what works for you.