Because we have been forced to stay home in order to practice social distancing, it is important we find ways to pass the time and get our minds off the pandemic. Although we are restricted to the general areas of our homes, the things we can do while at home are not nearly as limited. 

For starters, there is the basic option of watching new movies, finding new TV shows or using different social media platforms. They are all good ways to pass time and offer us a lot of entertainment. If you are in search of a new TV show to watch, Netflix offers many like “All American,” “On My Block,” “Ranch,” “Blacklist,” “Love is Blind” and so many others. 

“I started watching “All American” and I am so into it,” junior Amanda Gerrish said. “It is a drama TV show, so the events feel as if they are never ending and they take all these twists and turns. The storyline is so interesting, and overall I think it is a very good show. I recommend that people watch it.”

Even though we are on lockdown and practicing social distancing, we still have the people that live in our houses to spend time with. This quarantine is the perfect time to get closer to your parents/guardians, siblings or any other person quarantined with you. For example, playing board games all together is a great way to bond. The mix of competitiveness and fun is a recipe for bonding. Another way to spend time together, if you have the space, effort and equipment necessary, is by building a mini outdoor gym, like junior Liam Macabee did. 

“Since our gym had closed and the gym at my dad’s office was off limits because of the Coronavirus, I made the outdoor gym to use as an alternative for me and my family,” Macabee said. “It turned out pretty well, and I like getting to use it with my dad. If you have time to do nothing, you have time to get huge.” 

Something else that you can do while quarantined is clean and organize belongings. Although it may not sound like the most entertaining thing to do, cleaning and being organized are not only hygienic, but also they are also scientifically proven to improve our mental health. It is satisfying to see something that was once dirty get cleaned, and it is also rewarding because you get to instantly see your hard work pay off. In addition, there are also so many things you can clean. For example, you can clean all the different rooms in your house, and you can clean your car inside and out. 

The list of things to do while quarantined goes on and on, all you have to do is give some thought about what you want to do. As it is vital to remain within the vicinity of your home to stay healthy, it is important to find some way to occupy this newfound freetime doing some type of activity, whether it is being on your phone, spending time with family, cleaning and organizing or another activity.