Right now, we’re all being asked to stay home and stay safe. And that means we need to be a little more creative about ways to spend our time.
The thought of lazing on the couch all day sounds appealing but staying busy, engaged and entertained is far better for us physically and psychologically. So, to help you out, here’s a list of 5 things to keep you and the family upbeat, and boredom at bay, while you hunker down.
Hang out with some non-humans
Those of us lucky enough to have pets know our four-legged friends love attention. Now that you’re home more often, why not treat them to an extra cuddle or tasty pet treat? Pamper your pooch with a bath and blow-dry (maybe even a bow in their hair?) or make your cat’s favourite meal and chill on the couch together. If you have a backyard, get out into it with your furry friend and enjoy some fresh air and playful exercise. Or go for a walk locally to keep you both active, while staying safe and practising good social distancing.
Cook a delicious dinner that keeps on giving
We can all do with some comfort food right now. Here’s a recipe for Tuna Pasta Bake that provides not only a filling hot meal but can be frozen and reheated later. Start leafing through your cookbooks or hit the internet for recipe inspiration – and get creative with your pantry staples to put together something surprising and delicious for the family.
If you’re after a recipe to supercharge your body, give Alastair’s Ginger, Tumeric and Lemongrass Chicken broth a go. A delicious immunity-boosting dinner which is sure to give your body a kick start.
Marie Kondo your house
Marie Kondo your house… what does this mean you ask? Well, tidying expert Marie Kondo has been helping people around the world transform their cluttered homes into spaces of serenity and inspiration. (If you have Netflix, check out her show, “Tidying Up With Marie Kondo.”)
It’s a safe bet you have at least one room in the house that’s ripe for a de-clutter. You know the one: full of bits and pieces you no longer use; cupboards full of ‘stuff’; and rarely worn clothes. Take a leaf from Marie Kondo and keep “only those things that speak to the heart and discard items that no longer spark joy.” Imagine the joy of investing a few hours for more space, serenity and order. Maybe you’ll enjoy so much you might even move onto the pantry… then the linen cupboard!
For more tidy tips from Marie Kondo, check out her website.
Research your next holiday
While holiday and travel plans are on hold, there’s no reason why you can’t spend time researching places you’d like to visit and adventures you’d like to have in the future? And your dreams don’t have to come with a big price tag. Think locally and you’ll discovery plenty of options in your neighbourhood, town or region. A day of researching a new destination can almost feel like a ‘virtual visit’ and while you may have to wait a little while until you can embark on the trip, you’ll have all the information you need to book that break.
Here are just a few ideas from the WEEKENDER website.
- Blackbutt: https://thegreatdayout.com.au/oatb/how-to-make-the-most-of-a-weekend-in-queenslands-blackbutt
- Roma to Cunnamulla: https://7weekender.com/where-to-stop-how-to-travel-from-roma-to-cunnamulla/
- Bundaberg: https://7weekender.com/turtles-mon-repos/
- The Whitsunday Islands: https://7weekender.com/exploring-the-whitsunday-region/
Read that book
Whether it’s the latest historical romance or a classic novel, finding solace and escapism between the pages (or on the screen) is all the rage right now. And I bet every one of us has that long-forgotten book (of which you’ve read about a dozen pages) that’s worth picking up again. If you’re in search for a book to start, why not have a look at QBD book of the month and while you’re there, have a peak at Vic and Lee’s book reviews. Cup of tea or coffee, cosy corner – and you’re all set for an hour or two.
