Just think of the extroverts, but even the introverts.  Nobody can truly enjoy being isolated.

So how do we cope? Well, we do what we can to pass the time, of course. Dive into your hobbies, do a spring clean and perhaps enjoy a glass of wine.

But while you do what you do, there are some important tips to keep in mind. Things you must do to keep yourself sane until you’re finally free to explore the world and hug people again.

Because you will, in time. A storm cloud can only drop so much rain.

Stay Social

Smartphone. Photographed by Oleg Magni. Image via Unsplash

We are, first and foremost, social creatures. We thrive on having a social life. In fact, the benefits of being social are numerous, from physical health to emotional stability.

Of course, while face-to-face contact is the most beneficial, it’s best to keep your distance in isolation. During this time we’d recommend calling or video calling a friend or a relative at least once a day.

But being social doesn’t have to be through direct chatting, you can even gain benefits from playing social games with people through smartphone apps. One of our favourites is Words with Friends, but the choice is up to you. You could even get social via Steam, Xbox Live or PlayStation Plus.

And let’s not forget that you don’t have to feel anti-social on social media!

Keep Active

Yoga pose. Photographed by Wee Lee. Image via Unsplash

It’s important to move that body of yours. While it may be tempting to lay on the couch and binge-watch Netflix all day, your body will eventually hate you.

It’s also important to note that all self-isolation regulations are different depending on your jurisdiction. In New Zealand, for instance, self-isolation can include going for a walk outside. Just be sure to keep your distance from others and wear a mask if possible. Also, refrain from touching shared surfaces, including traffic light buttons and railings.

If you are unable to go outside for walks, at least enjoy some physical exercise inside. Even if it’s just simple burpees or aimlessly walking around the house while chatting on the phone. You could even try your hand at yoga or other workout regimes where equipment isn’t needed. YouTube is a treasure trove for this!

Otherwise, throughout your day, relax on your balcony or backyard, which is necessary for soaking up that vitamin D. And if you don’t have either, sit next to the window!

Develop A Routine

Breakfast. Photographed by THE 5TH. Image via Unsplash

Routines are important. They give structure to our mind and body, affording some sense of familiarity. Routines help keep our minds active, leading us away from endless mind chatter that can lead to anxiety and depression. And when you’re self-isolating at home, a routine is necessary for a sound mind. Most especially a morning routine.

Wake up, have a shower, eat breakfast and then watch the news. It doesn’t have to be in that exact order, and you can add or retract whatever you wish, but have a morning routine and try to stick to it. This can help set you up for the rest of the day.

The morning is like the start of any other project. You have to begin it right for the rest of the day to unfold smoothly. Similar to when you build a house, you start with the foundation — and every architect will tell you the foundation is the most important part. It’s the same for any sort of project.

You might even consider getting into an evening routine. The end of a project may not be the most important, but it can help you start your next project (ie, the next day) with a little more enthusiasm.

Indeed, you don’t have to structure your whole day, but adding some frequency to your routine can help alleviate the stress and bring out the best in you.

As we can easily see right now, life never runs smoothly all the time.

Do Something Meaningful Each Day

Book with stringed lights. Photographed by Nong Vang. Image via Unsplash

As a final piece of advice, we’d recommend doing something meaningful each day. This will give you some sense of satisfaction, easing you along to your own independence day!

Maybe you have a personal passion, like writing or photography. Maybe you’re seeking to change careers or perhaps you’ve simply got a friend who needs some emotional guidance. Meaningful things are always out there and can be achieved even if you are stuck at home.

To define it simply, meaningful things are what make you feel content in life. For example: if you love writing and you’re striving for a career within the field, just know that every time you write or publish a story, you’ll be closer to your dreams.

But it’s not just career ideas that are meaningful, sometimes it’s as simple as reading a good book. Perhaps it’s finally clearing out that cupboard you’ve left for so long.

Find what’s meaningful to you and just do it. This is your moment to shine!

Originally published and curated on Medium by the same author, Christopher Kelly.

Feature image: Photographed by Sasha Freemind. Image via Unsplash.