5 ways to stay sane while cooped up at home

By Lauren Ferrone
Published: Friday, March 20, 2020

From embracing Mad March festivities to staying at home twiddling your thumbs, a lot can change in a few weeks. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with some productive (and fun) ways to pass the hours – all from the comfort of your own sweet abode.

1. Tune out – and then tune in

Is your search history full of coronavirus-related material? Stop. Tune out from the negativity and tune into something that’s better for your soul.

For instance, the music doesn’t stop until… well, not even a global pandemic can quieten the sweet sounds of the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra (ASO).

While the ASO has paused many of their public performances, the orchestra is looking into recording and broadcasting them so you don’t miss out. Keep an eye on their website for updates.

If you’re after something to tune into in the meantime, check out The Social Distancing Festival – a unique online festival which live-streams musicians, comedians and other artists around the world who’ve had shows cancelled or postponed due to the spread of COVID-19.

Woman listening to music on headphones at home. — Tune out the negativity and tune into positive vibes. Image: iStock

2. Get out – kind of

You’ve probably heard a lot about holidaying in your own backyard. Well, we’re taking that saying literally now.

A bit of fresh air might help to boost your energy. Hang out in the yard, kick the ball around, read a book with a glass of red, or pull up those weeds you’ve neglected for weeks. There are plenty of ways to get some much-needed vitamin D.

If you’re really an outdoors person, pitch a tent in the backyard and camp out for the night.

Australian family playing in the backyard. — Explore your own backyard – literally. Image: iStock

3. Order take-out to enjoy inside

There’s never been a better time to buy local.

Despite closing their dining rooms to the public, many restaurants and cafés in South Australia are now encouraging customers to order takeaway.

Feeling hungry? Take your pick. Port Adelaide’s Low & Slow American BBQ has extended their menu to include takeaway options, while Brooklyn Park pizza joint Chicco Palms has introduced a delivery service. Some coffee shops, like Sibling café in the Adelaide CBD, are now takeaway only too. There are plenty of other options just a Google search away.

The best part? You don’t have to cook, and did we mention you can dine in your pyjamas?

Cheese supreme pizza with a slice being taken. — Eat pizza? You don’t have to tell us twice. Image: iStock

4. Keep moving

Too much pizza? While you may want to skip the gym, you don’t need to stop your regular workout routine. Just revise it.

You’ll soon be amazed by the number of exercises you can do simply with a dining room chair or a 5kg bag of rice (if you were lucky enough to grab one from your local shops).

Guess there are no more excuses for being too busy to fit in a workout!

Man tying sports shoe laces on the bed. — Stay active from the comfort of home. Image: iStock

5. Keep calm

Are you a few days into self-isolating? We get it – you’re probably close to bouncing off the walls. Regardless of how you choose to spend your time, stay safe, healthy and – wait for it – don’t forget to wash your hands. We’re in this together.