Essentials to get through home quarantine

We’re almost through with the first week of Luzon’s enhanced community quarantine amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

But we have three more weeks to ride out this trying period and for sure, some are at their wit’s end on how to spend the coming days at home. Staying put does not mean we should content ourselves not doing anything other than browsing through our social media feeds. Now’s the time to revisit an abandoned hobby, or finish that do-it-yourself home improvement you’ve been wanting to do.

‘Green’ and bear it

You have always taken pride in your natural talent for growing plants. Your garden has always been the source of your joy–that is, until you became too busy with work. Every morning as you make a mad dash to the office and every evening as you drag your tired self home, you pass by your miserable and dumpy garden and you feel a stabbing pain in your heart for not having any time for your now overgrown plants.

Now, you have that extra time to take care of your plants or garden. Bring out whatever gardening tools and supplies you have available. Don’t be discouraged if you will not be able to purchase new tools or pots, you just have to make do with what you have. Those old cooking pots and pans you’ve been meaning to throw away can also have a new purpose as alternative planters. Recycle plastic bottles into “pots” as well, by carefully sawing off the upper portion. Just remember to punch a few drainage holes at the bottom of your “new” pots and planters and add some gravel for drainage before repotting your plants.

Bakers gonna bake

It is our duty as responsible citizens to keep ourselves informed. It has to be admitted though that reading about the COVID-19 pandemic, plus seeing how chaotic this lockdown is turning out to be, can be extremely upsetting and overwhelming.

According to Healthline, cooking may not only benefit one’s taste buds and tummy, it can also do wonders to uplift one’s mood and spirit. Baking, for one, can be therapeutic and helpful in easing one’s anxiety. It encourages focus and allows one to forget life’s present stresses, even for just a bit. Rummage through your fridge and cupboards for basic ingredients such as flour, sugar, baking powder, butter, eggs and salt. Bring out those measuring spoons and cups that have been sitting in one of your kitchen drawers. If you’re lucky to be able to go to a grocery, you might want to add some baking ingredients and tools to your cart.

Repurpose your discarded boxes and get some home organization done

Turn one wall of your home into a massive chalkboard and unleash everyone’s artist within.

Spruce up

Your living spaces have been in a perpetual state of disarray. Take this opportunity to bring back your home’s cozy and comfortable vibe. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America emphasizes on the importance of keeping one’s living spaces clean and organized, to counter the negativity and uncertainty that is happening outside.

For those with children, transform a room or a corner of your home into their special play area. Paint one part of the wall with chalkboard paint. Wrap sturdy discarded boxes with colorful paper and reuse these as storage for toys and art materials. You may also use brown packaging paper or Manila paper and have the kids fill this with scribbles and stickers. Place large pillows or poufs in this area so you and your kids can lounge comfortably here during playtime.