Searching For The Silver Lining of Self Isolation

Read Time:5 Minute, 50 Second

By Krista Minas

If your past few weeks have been anything like mine, chances are you’re feeling stir crazy, bored and slightly emo. Unfortunately, what only started off as a few weeks in isolation has now turned into many more than that, and it’s hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Life as you’ve known it has suddenly been turned upside down. It’s difficult to experience a situation like the one we’re in, and not look at it negatively. College students’ spring semesters have been cut short, and we no longer get the luxury of living on our own with our best friends.

Personally speaking, I feel like I’ve taken a flashback to the past and am living out my high school days once again, minus the (slight) freedom to leave the house. Amid this negativity, I’ve been trying (key word, trying) to look at the silver linings that are hidden throughout all of this. There aren’t many, but hey, maybe social distancing and isolation will finally give you the chance to do some of the things you’ve claimed “you would do if you had the time” (I know that certainly holds true for me). Now, I have zero excuses. Whether you’re working from home, completing online classes, or have an ample amount of free time in the house, I have a few suggestions for how you can try to make the most of the next few weeks at home.

Spring cleaning!

I don’t know about you all, but I hadn’t been through my closet in years. It’s something I’d been dreading, but also dying to get done. I am a sophomore in college, and I recently found a Gap sweatshirt from the fifth grade. Take this as an opportunity to finally make some room and maybe use this as an excuse to do a little shopping. Save your clothes for now, and when we can finally leave the house, take all of the clothes that no longer fit you/you no longer want to a donation center! Or, if you’re a college student who’s balling on a budget and looking to make a little bit of extra cash, take your clothes to your nearest Buffalo Exchange and/or Plato’s Closet.

Get in shape!

While you may no longer be able to attend your local gym, there are plenty of at-home workouts for you to do! An easy workout that requires no equipment is running. You get to enjoy the outdoors and burn a few calories while you’re at it! Additionally, many people post their ab workouts on YouTube, so if you simply search “at-home workouts,” thousands of results will appear.

Read that book you’ve been dying to try!

I have a stack of books that have been sitting on my desk for years because I haven’t had the time to read, but now I have (dare I say) too much time on my hands! I just started reading The Girl with The Dragon Tattoo, so if I can do it, you can too!

Get outside!

Like I had suggested, going for a run is a great way to experience the outdoors. But, if hardcore cardio isn’t exactly your thing, try going for a nice walk… and even bring your dog! I know I personally spend hours a day staring at a screen, so it’s a nice change of pace and scenery to detach for a bit and ~be one with nature~.

FaceTime/Zoom your friends!

Social distancing and isolation can feel lonely sometimes, so if you’re sick and tired of your family, chat/check in with your friends! Call someone individually, or gather a large group and have fun with it! A gesture as simple as picking up the phone and reaching out to someone can make their day, I know it always puts a smile on my face.

Send snail mail!

Unlike many in my generation, I am an avid fan of this good old fashioned form of communication. I have been collecting postcards for years, and nothing makes me happier than receiving something special and heartfelt in the mailbox, so try surprising a friend or family member with a letter, hard copy pictures to put on their walls, or a postcard.

Try something new!

What should I try, you ask? How about painting! My brother and I ordered acrylic paints, brushes, and canvases off of Amazon, and that is our next project. We’re definitely not good, but with this new time on our hands, we figured we’d give it a shot. Another idea is a puzzle! This certainly requires quite a bit of patience, but if you have it in you, this is something entertaining and an activity that your entire family can get on board with.

Have a movie marathon!

If you need a few movie suggestions, the GW Local has got you covered!

Our Guide to the 2020 Oscars: What’s Worth Your Watch

10 Best Rom Coms to Watch This Valentines Day

5 Movies to Watch if You Loved Parasite

Online shop!

Many stores are having major sales, so go search the internet for the best deals! Madewell frequently has sales, especially if you’re an insider, and they offer a 15% student discount if you enter your information in. Additionally, try stores such as Urban Outfitters, Nordstrom, Zara, and Forever 21 for some cute clothes and deals.

Change it up!

Try spicing up your room with some new wall art, whether that be hanging up the canvases that you painted when you tried something new, or ordering a few cool posters off of Etsy (support small businesses!). Or, if you’re looking for an even more drastic change, try dying your hair! I’m not going to lie, I’ve been so bored at home that I have contemplated dip dyeing the ends of my hair pink, and since we’re just hanging at home, I’m kind of thinking why not!

Educate yourself!

Though it may be easier for some to detach from the frightening reality of COVID-19, one of the best things we can do right now is stay up-to-date on the latest information regarding the pandemic. This doesn’t mean that you should bring yourself down with the news at every waking moment, but certainly take some time every day to remind yourself of the brave people healthcare professionals on the front lines and the service workers who continue to serve the public even when the world around them has paused.

I hope some of these suggestions will help you get through these stressful and uncertain times. Adjusting to this new way of life is difficult, but we will make it through. I hope everyone is safe and healthy, and kids, remember to STAY INSIDE!