Six Things to Do While Self-Isolating

Being in quarantine or self-isolating doesn't have to be a lonely experience. Instead, why not take advantage of the opportunity? Here are six ways to make the most of your time at home.

06 Apr, 2020

With the introduction of social distancing restrictions to slow the spread of COVID-19, self-isolation has become a new norm for many of us.

The word 'isolation' evokes a sense of loneliness and boredom, and when we think about it on a long-term basis, fear and panic can begin to set in.

But here's the thing—we're never actually alone, because God is with us in everything we do.

Instead of viewing the coming months through the lens of fear, we have the choice to view them as an opportunity to lean on God and grow in our relationship with Him and each other.

There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. —1 John 4:18

Here are six suggestions to help you through self-isolation:

1. Virtually Connect With Your Friends and Family

Even though we can't meet in the same room, there are so many free tools that allow us to continue to connect with others from the comfort of our homes.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Host a virtual games night with the Houseparty app
• Watch a movie with your friends using Netflix Party
• Study the Bible together via Zoom
• Video chat while you take a free fitness class together
• Make a shared playlist on YouTube using their collaborative feature

While texting your loved ones is much easier to do and doesn't take as much time, going the extra mile to see and hear one another will make the world of difference in your level of connection.

This is also the perfect time to do some fun activities with your kids. There are a number of free online resources, like this series from Compassion and Colin Buchanan to get you started.

2. Spend Time in the Word

Watching movies is a great way to pass the time, but it can be easy to lose track of other tasks once we get into the rhythm of doing it regularly. Instead, why not spend some extra time soaking in God's Word?

If this is something you've never done before, check out the YouVersion Bible App for free reading plans and devotionals to get you started. You can even invite your friends to read along with you and see each other's progress.

3. Learn a New Skill

Ever wanted to learn a new language, play that ukulele you bought five years ago, or perfect your hip hop skills? This is the perfect time to start!

Allocate a little bit of time each day to sharpen your skills, and you'll be well on your way to dazzling your friends and family in the dance circle of the next wedding you attend.

Even though some of us may feel like we have less time than before, taking a little bit of time to do something we enjoy each day can help to improve our wellbeing, and maintain some normality during this uncertain time.

4. Get Fit

When all the gyms are closed and we're at home all day, it can be easy to forgo exercise altogether.

If getting fit is on your radar, why not take advantage of the spare time you have to give Pilates or Zumba a go? Some gyms and personal trainers have moved their programs online, and there are so many free resources on YouTube to get you started.

If you frequent the gym and feel lost without it, now's the perfect time to try out some new forms of exercise that you might end up enjoying more.

5. Clean and Reorganise

Being at home for a long period of time can get boring, especially if you're looking at the same setup every day.

Rearranging your furniture and organising your life can bring a little extra excitement to your day and will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to take on your daily tasks.

Why not get your kids involved too? Rearranging their bedroom or playroom is a great way for them to think creatively and use up some extra energy.

Tip: Try decorating your walls with words of affirmation to remind you of God's love. You could even put some in your window to encourage your neighbours!

6. Strengthen Your Prayer Life

Whether we pray alone or with one another, talking with God deepens our relationship with Him and brings hope to our lives.

If you'd like to gather in prayer, we'd love to invite you to join our Facebook prayer group. You can be part of a wonderful community where we pray for each other and the children we serve. We hope you'll find it an encouraging space in a time where things can feel uncertain.

"For where two or three gather in my name, there I am with them." —Matthew 18:20

We are continuing to pray for provision and peace for you and your families. Thank you for your continued love and support.

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Words by Claire Ince

Photos by Daniel Robson, Ryan Johnson and Compassion International