10 Boredom Busters: how to survive the lockdown blues

While the heroes working on the frontline across the globe combat the coronavirus, the rest of the world is playing its part by ‘staying at home’. Although many have their hands full with study, childcare, work and/or caring for loved ones, due to the absence of social life and/or a job, others are struggling to fill the hours. And so, here are a few things I’ve found useful in beating the boredom this lockdown season:

1. Plan your day

Humans thrive off routine. And so, it’s no wonder many of us have found ourselves feeling lost, moody, and frustrated. With no work to get up for, no sports to train for and no Friday night drinks to get dolled up for, filling the day can seem daunting. A simple plan can help ease this fear. Writing down basic things like ‘breakfast’, ‘walk the dog’ and ‘make the bed’ can help give your day some structure and will also improve your mood. Ticking items off a list has been proven to release dopamine (the happy hormone) in the brain. So get ticking!

2. Books, Books, Books

Lockdown has reignited my love for reading. From fiction to self-help, there really is something for everyone! Besides the obvious benefits including improving your vocabulary, increasing your attention span and possibly learning something, reading also provides us with a welcome break from screens. If you’re anything like me, binging Hannah Montana on Disney+ and scrolling through TikTok may be your first port of call when you’re bored. However, by swapping the screens for a book, your eyes and brain will thank you!

(Don’t forget to check out my 'book of the month' blog post.)

3. Clean that drawer

We all have one. Whether it’s a press in the kitchen, a drawer in your desk or the bedside locker, everyone has that drawer that is just full of c**p. You’d be surprised how relieved you’ll feel knowing it’s clean, or am I on my own there?? Anyways, you might find something you lost and it’ll pass the time. Win-win.

4. Get creative

Whether its painting, drawing or writing, being creative can relieve stress and take your mind off the current madness of our world. Creativity doesn’t have to stop with a pen/paint and paper. If photography is your thing, dust off your camera. Why not dig out your old tin whistle and bust out the foggy dew. Lockdown is the perfect time to brush up on old skills or challenge yourself to learn something new.

5. Journal

Every aspect of our lives has been altered by this pandemic. Our bodies and minds are in survival mode as they try to navigate this surreal reality. As a result, many of us may be experiencing mood swings and strange dreams. AND THIS IS OKAY. You are not living a ‘normal’ life, so don’t put pressure on yourself to feel or act ‘normal’. Journaling can help bring some rationality to the moods and thoughts you are feeling/thinking. Simply writing them down is an instant stress reliever.

6. Have the chats

Whether it's with your friends, family, dog or neighbours, talking to others is great for boosting your mood, for both sides. From zoom and facetime, to texting and snapchat (or an old-fashioned letter), staying in touch is easier than ever. Although there’s nothing like a face to face catch up, talking over the phone or online will help you forget about these crazy times, even if it’s just for just a few minutes. (Try a zoom-quiz with your friends if you haven't already, it's sure to give you a laugh.)

7. Depop

Although clearing out your wardrobe might not sound exciting, getting paid to do it does, right? Instead of leaving your clothes hanging idle, why not sell them? Depop is very user friendly – all you need is the app, your camera, a PayPal account and access to a post office! As well as selling your stuff, there are some amazing bargains to be found on the site – plus, by buying secondhand you’re doing your bit for the earth.

8. Bust a move

You don’t need to be Michael Flatley to know that dancing is an instant mood booster. From TikTok dances to just a regular bop in the kitchen, dancing is a sure-fire cure to boredom.

9. Organise your tunes

You’ve probably realised by now, but I do love a bit of organisation. And that includes my playlists. Organise the old, create some new and have a look for some new gems. There are so many smaller artists to find on Spotify and other platforms, including some unreal homegrown talent. Check out the Topsify 'Homegrown Heroes' playlist on Spotify for some inspiration.

10. Appreciate

When this all ends (and it will), within a few weeks I can guarantee you that some of us will be wishing for a day or a week off; a day to just be at home relaxing with family and friends or walking the dogs or baking with the kids. Yes, at times it may seem boring, but the opportunity we all have right now to appreciate the little things will be what we’ll be wishing for one day.

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Thanks for reading.

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