Stress-Busting Activities for Self-Quarantining Families to Do During the Pandemic

by Guest Blogger Jennifer Scott

Quarantining at home is a whole new territory that no one was really prepared for. It’s not uncommon for families to start getting on each other’s nerves after so many weeks spent together at home. However, that doesn’t mean you have to suffer through the rest of the pandemic. Incorporating new routines and activities into your days, such as the ones below, can do wonders for alleviating tension in your home.

Do an Outdoor Activity

By far, one of the most effective ways to reduce stress is to go outside where you can breath in fresh air and get some mood-boosting vitamin D. However, not just any outdoor activity will do. In fact, opting for an adventure in a crowded area where you can’t practice social distancing may actually heighten your anxiety during these times.

It’s a good idea to choose activities that allow you to get out on your own without running into groups of other people. For example, going fishing together on a secluded lake or river is a perfect solution. Even if you are on a popular lake, going out in a small boat or fishing kayak will allow you to travel into more secluded areas that other people are unlikely to go.

Not only does a fishing excursion get you outside, it can also be an educational opportunity. For example, fishing can be used to teach your kids about the life cycle of different species, habitat conservation, the food chain and even the scientific method.

As you’re planning outdoor fun, it’s also a good idea to work in some more active outings. Getting cardiovascular exercise does wonders for your overall health and mood. Rock climbing, biking, running or hiking are just a few active adventures your family might enjoy together.

Try New Indoor Activities

Going outside every now and then can greatly reduce tension in your household, but it’s not possible to venture out every day. Luckily, there are still many ways you can reduce stress with indoor activities.

After months of time spent together at home, you might feel like you’ve already tried everything imaginable, but the possibilities for indoor fun are endless. For example, you might try doing a family-friendly aerobics or dance fitness class together by streaming a video online. Dressing up in retro fitness costumes can turn a regular exercise session into a blast.

You can make family workouts and other activities even more fun by getting kid-friendly fitness trackers or other gadgets. Companies like Verizon have great resources available for helping you choose age-appropriate tech.

Another fun activity might be to create your own at-home movie theater experience. Make movie theater style popcorn, get some fun snacks, turn down all the lights and sit back for a family favorite. In the same vein, having a weekly restaurant night at home can bring more fun to your dinner routine. By getting everyone in the family involved, you can divvy up some of your usual cooking and cleaning responsibilities without it seeming like a chore for the kids.

Prepare for the Future

Exercising and playing together can reduce tension, but you can also tackle stress by getting prepared for life in the future. Despite the pandemic, you still need to work and your kids still need to go to school.

With there being so much uncertainty, your children might be feeling extra nervous about starting a new academic year, and may need additional help getting mentally prepared. Receiving coaching from Connecting, Inc. is a great way to help your kids adjust and develop the social skills they need to thrive.

In addition to getting mentally prepared, it’s also important to gather the technology and supplies they will need to succeed with online learning or in-person classes. Luckily, it’s easy to buy school supplies, new clothes and other gear online.

The pandemic has brought us all to uncharted territory, and it’s only natural to feel a greater sense of stress. Focusing on fun activities and spending time getting prepared for the future will help you bond while also creating a more relaxing environment at home.