Quarantine and COVID-19 is a very big challenge for many young kids, teenagers and adults as it requires the discipline and mental stamina to stay home almost every day. From having the will to do homework or even to get some fresh air, quarantine has made it really hard for me to stay motivated. I constantly go on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram or any social media platform for hours and hours on end. It has become to the point that I don’t even realize how much time I have lost in the day because I am on my phone or another device for so long. However, I have recently really begun to appreciate self-care and have even discovered some new activities to do throughout my day. I created a list of my top five favorite things that I do during quarantine to keep my spirits up and add fun to my day. I am always looking for many more hobbies to add to my daily routine but the five activities recommended below has been a great place to start. Feel free to follow these five activities or simply be inspired to add more spice to your day!

1. Make a smoothie

Smoothies are an amazing and typically healthy drink to get you ready for the day. I didn’t start making smoothies until the summer and since then, I can not stop drinking them. Smoothies are a gateway to success and power. They can give you the motivation and drive to push through a stressful day. Having a smoothie is a great way to refresh yourself in the morning or afternoon. During quarantine, I have been watching @earthyandy videos on how to make thick and delicious smoothies.

2. Make a Playlist 

Especially during quarantine when boredom is at its peak, good music to listen to is key….trust me. I love listening to my playlist before I get ready for school, after school or even when I am doing homework. Good music makes me feel joyous, lively and peaceful. A couple of my favorite artists are Ella Mai, Daniel Cesar, Giveon and Brent Faiyaz. These artists completely lift my mood because I feel a sense of joy whenever I hear their music. Each artist takes me to a  universe where I don’t have to worry about the pressure of school or life.

3. Going to the park

Walking or driving to your nearby park is a great way to go outside and be active. You can have socially distanced picnics, bring a cheese or fruit board, paint, take pictures and just have a good time with your friends or even by yourself. There are so many fun things you can do at the park to just get away from home for an hour or two and just relax and look at the sunset. After a long day, the park is just what I need to relax and take a break from the world. When I am at the park, I love to listen to my playlist of music and just look up at the sky to think about life.

4. Treat yourself to a spa day at home

Creating an at-home spa day for yourself can be one of the most relaxing things in the world. After a long week of school, I feel like a spa day is just what I need. From DIY avocado face masks to my seasonal scented candles, having some you time is perfect to strengthen yourself from a tense week. Take it from me, someone who does spa days once a week, it is just what you need.

5. Play Among Us with your friends

Among Us is the best game and activity to virtually play with your friends or family. It’s a free multiplayer game available on the App Store where you complete tasks in a spaceship if you’re a crewmate or hunt down the crewmates if you’re an imposter. I love this game because it is just what I need to get away from the stress of school. I always have such a fun night when I play Among Us with my friends on Zoom. The excitement, nerves and laughter of finding out who the imposter is creates an enjoyable environment for everyone.

After reading this list, I hope you have a new passion or idea that inspires you to go outside more or try new activities. I know quarantine can be a difficult time emotionally and physically, but these are just a few tips to make your day a little more exciting. Whether you end up doing these or not, remember to treat yourself and spend time away from the screen.