How I’m spending this isolation period

Hey again! This blog is looking a little at what I’m doing to spend my time during this strange period we find ourselves in. I’ve tried to find a few ways to keep myself busy across the past few weeks and looking forward in the future for however long this may continue for!

Uni Work

Of course, I had to start the post with the primary source of ‘entertainment’ at this point. With essays, dissertations, and exams/amended assessments coming up, I’ve been devoting time to reading and writing what I need to keep on track. This is especially important as it’s my final year – so key to keep on top of it all!

Room Decoration

I’ve always wanted to do a big spring clean and repaint/redo my room (as it’s still the purple that I’ve had since I was 10), and this has been a great chance. From unpacking my uni stuff to choosing paint colours and new furniture. While the major work (painting and new furniture) won’t take place until after the shops have opened, it’s fun being able to design and prep. Not only this but a lot of the books and games I’ve been finding and donating have been given to family friends (well, dropped off at their drives then thoroughly sanitized just in case) for their younger family members as something fun and new in isolation too!

Calling/Keeping Up With Friends

I’ve definitely been making the most of the internet at home. I’ve had regular nightly calls with my boyfriend (who’s in Canada – although I was supposed to be there at this point in time, flying was not the best decision), as well as organising a “Virtual Dirty Duck” with my friends from the Arts Centre, catching up with flatmates over a phone call, or even having a mini-thesis presentation from my friends back in Canada for their dissertations – mine will be done later this month! It’s been great to just sit and chat to them and find out how everyone is doing. 

Playing Games

This has tied in with the last one, but I’ve been playing a lot of games recently with friends. Of course, Animal Crossing New Horizons came out and I don’t think I’ve ever been more excited for a game. I’ve been able to use the feature to visit my boyfriend and friends’ islands, and chat with them as well as organise virtual dates (sappy, yes, but still fun!). Other games I’ve played have included Jackbox games with my school friends – a multiplayer game that isn’t impacted by distance (only by bad internet!).

Exercise and routine

Finally, I’ve been trying to do some exercise while stuck inside (and getting fresh air). A badly timed decision means that my trainers are currently locked in my room at uni until the lockdown is ended, but I’ve been using a trial period on the Peloton app to get into home workouts. It’s not been a lot but I’m trying to work up as home workouts are definitely different to the gym on campus!

Overall, I’ve been so grateful for the support and transition to not only online education, but online socialising. It’s been great to see and catch up with people that have ended up over the world, and still stay in contact – although my only wish is that everyone is able to stay healthy and get through what will be a tough time for all of us! Even though we’re in this state for what seems to be a long time, no doubt we’ll be better for it – please feel free to get in touch if you’d like to chat or ask any questions!