Quarantine Ideas for the Nuclear Family

Many people are finding themselves at home more than ever. And many more people are finding themselves bored - more than ever. When we live in a world where meandering around Walmart doesn’t feel the same, or find it difficult to go on a hike as many parks are closed, how can we possibly figure out how to spend our time?

Lying in bed is only a short term option. Up to a point, the drapes can’t possibly be shut any further, as light still comes in the window at 3 pm.

You already slept so much, your body just doesn't want it anymore.

Your pets will still meow or woof at you to get attention.

Even if you already pet them for the millionth time.

Your arm just doesn't want to move.

WHAT DO WE DO AMERICA?!?

If you live alone, I can’t really help you. You're going to have to motivate yourself.

An easy start into the quarantine adventure is getting reinvolved with our families again. Sounds brutal. But, if you are so bored, having a laugh over mac n cheese and oreos is not so bad (because let’s face it, food has become a highlight of everyone's lives, and going grocery shopping a favorite pastime). I would encourage families to use this time together, talking at the table, cooking, or baking, to get to know eachother again. Despite the instagram likes and homework grades, how are we doing? What are we grateful for, what things would we like to change, what does a future look like for us? Many have an opinion and share the same thoughts - but so much of our culture shuts deep conversation aside. We are stuck inside, in this nasty weather where we can’t even open the windows for fresh air, with the people we are for a reason. They are our family. But who are they, really?

When you are dying to get away from all this hubba bulb, try a new hobby. Drawing, even with a pen and notebook paper, can open new possibilities for a young artist. Picking up an old guitar that was somebody's great grandmas, or 10 bucks at the garage sale down the street, and learning a few frets may not be a bad activity. Listen to music, find out what can turn your family into a Kid Rock jam session. Watch a movie, with popcorn like back in the good ol days when you would run to blockbuster and pickout 2 for 10$ family night (and could never turn them in on time). Do bodyweight exercises using each other as dumbells.

Never tried that last one. But partner yoga is a possibility.

I think the key for all of us in getting by right now is mixing up our routine. If you find yourself getting bored and stuck in a rut, find new things to immerse yourself in. Become a stronger person - just kidding about living alone - you can do some of these things yourself! Get connected to those around you in new ways, it all plays a part to your health. You will thank yourself later for getting out of this mess, when you become the next Kid Rock guitar superstar.

You can move your arm to open the shades and turn the light on, even if your cat weighs 20 lbs and is sitting on it.