As much as we try to stay healthy, the season of common colds and the flu are just around the corner. When we inevitably do get sick, it can be boring when you are staying home and don’t know how to pass the time.
Here is a list of ways to best occupy your time when sick to make staying home more bearable.
Take time to yourself
The art of doing nothing can sometimes be the best way to recover at home when you are feeling under the weather. Some people live chronically online and impulsively feel the need to knock items off to-do lists. You can consider taking a break from phones and computers, as taking time away from screens can also improve sleep and lower stress levels.
If you fulfill the items on your to-do list such as laundry or cleaning your space, it can give you a better focus on yourself and being healthy again. Taking longer naps can help pass the time when you are feeling ill.
Treat yourself to some sick day self-care
Taking care of yourself when you are not feeling well can help you feel good and pass the time. If you take a longer shower or bath, it can help you relax or relieve congestion. By making some of your favorite warm drinks like hot tea or hot chocolate, it can help soothe a sore throat. You can also improve your symptoms by eating nourishing foods but consider making some of your favorite comfort foods as well.
Catch up on your favorite hobbies
When you are sick at home, this may be the best time to catch up on a book or television show you have been wanting to finish and help pass any free time. If your head hurts from too much focus on screens or books, listening to a podcast or your favorite tunes can relieve the mental strain.
Get crafty
Another way to pass the time when sick at home is to pick up a time-consuming craft. Some crafts to consider are knitting, crocheting or embroidering because the materials are cheap and can be greatly time-consuming. Partaking in arts and crafts encourages you to be creative and use your imagination.
Another type of craft to consider is a large puzzle. Puzzles can sharpen your mind by improving problem-solving skills, focus and concentration skills. Adult coloring books are also very time-consuming because of the complex patterns.
Journaling or updating your space
If you are feeling up to it, consider redecorating your room or living space. Making adjustments to the layout, the colors in the space or changing the accent items can improve your mood and promote positive feelings.
Journaling is also another way to pass the time at home. Journaling can promote emotional wellness and prioritize your problems, fears and concerns. Let your words flow freely in a way that feels right.
Low-impact exercises
Low-impact exercises can improve your health when you are feeling sick. Going for a short walk around your neighborhood can give you exposure to fresh air and boost immunity. Meditation or yoga are also great options to help recover faster. Stretching can help body aches or pains while also improving your mood.
Do not overexert yourself when exercising while sick. You should try to avoid high-impact exercises like lifting or intense interval workouts because they can make you weaker and more vulnerable to injury.
Connect with friends and family
While taking time away from screens can be beneficial, connecting with loved ones can also help pass the time. When you are sick at home, you can call your friends and family to have a social connection. Sometimes hearing the voices of loved ones can be more personal than sending text messages and can also be a way to brighten both of your days.
