Originally published in The Journal.
As we approach the first long weekend since social distancing regulations have come into effect, former plans of travel and family brunches have been put on hold as parents, families and households look toward more indoor-friendly activities to keep them entertained. Social-isolating or not, being at home doesn’t necessarily mean you have to be socially-isolated. In fact, we recommend the opposite – we hereby order you to take off the activewear, pour a glass of wine, put on your weekend-best and enjoy the time off, even if time itself doesn’t really feel like a thing anymore.
Individuals: At-home spa session
There’s no denying the power of bathing. Forget R&R, we’re talking about R&R&R: relax, reflect and reset. Beyond simply a means to get clean, bathing is therapeutic and helps balance the mind, body and soul. Days spent hunched over makeshift WFH desks has resulted in tension and tight muscles. In order to release muscle tension, experts recommend a 20-30-minute soak in hot water and magnesium flakes if you have them, alternatively, you can use table salt as a substitute. If you have any essential oil – preferably something calming like chamomile or sandalwood – mix it with a spoonful of milk to help it emulsify and disperse through the bath water with ease.
Couples: Dinner for two?
Who says you need to leave the house to have a five-star culinary experience? In today’s episode of social-distancing dining, you’re the chef and the guest. Pick a date, choose a cuisine, pencil in a reservation time and you’re good to go. Design your menu – à la carte or set? We assume the later. Cocktails or wine? Perhaps an aperitif if you’re feeling fancy. Lastly, don’t forget the cheque at the end of the evening, with added service tax, of course, you deserve it.
Families: Host a virtual Easter egg hunt
With families separated from each other this year, many have already become familiar with the likes of FaceTime and Zoom to check in on loved ones, but what about using the video platforms for a virtual Easter egg hunt? This requires a bit of coordination from parents to play host, tour guide and videographer all at once, but we promise the results are almost as good as the real thing. In order to carry out a successful hunt, when the whole family has logged onto the video chat, it’s the host’s job to wander (slowly) around the house and narrate what they’re seeing so everybody on the other end can shout out when they spot an egg. Be sure to film as you separate eggs into each child’s basket so you can count them at the end. Hint: we recommend hiding the eggs in fairly easy-to-find places to allow for your hunt to run smoothly (and time-efficiently).
Housemates: Master a TikTok challenge
Ok, we will be the first to admit that we were initially hesitant, but newfound downtime has left us with no choice. As share houses begin to clock more face time with each other than ever before, we’ve found relief in TikTok. Despite (un)popular belief, there is genuinely something in the video app for everyone. Whether it’s an Adele concert with a socially-distanced gummy bear crowd or a family-turned-enemies due to being trapped in isolation together that’s your flavour, we could all use a little comedic relief right about now. Therefore, it’s time to make like Queen Bey and put your freakum dress on, we’re learning a choreographed Tik Tok dance. Besides, everybody’s doing it.