Self-isolating? Here's some top tips for keeping busy and having fun!

Heading inside for the next couple of weeks is the best option to keep ourselves and others safe from Covid-19. So, if you need some inspiration for ways to stay entertained, then check out my top 6 tips below:

1. Board Games Olympics.

(Shout out to the Godfrey clan for this idea.)

Playing board games is a great way to while away the afternoon, but if you want to make it a bit more competitive, then why not turn it into a longer running competition? Depending on how many people you're playing with, award each person the amount of points depending on which place you came. So, if there's five people playing, the winner gets five points, and second place gets four...to the person in last place getting one. Then, whoever has the most points at the end is the winner. Go as crazy as you want for the awards ceremony, depending on how dramatic/ competitive you all are.

My new photo wall to remind me of my uni room.

2. Get crafting!

Painting by numbers is a relaxing activity that will take you a while to complete. Find one that would make a good present for somebody when you've finished- I'm making one for my cousin's birthday. Another way to get creative is by re-decorating your room. It doesn't have to be anything major like painting the walls (but it can be if you want to!); just moving around the furniture is a great way to make things feel new. A photo wall will brighten up you're room, and it's a lovely way to look back on memories too.

3. Spend some time with God.

If you've never opened a Bible before, then this is a great opportunity to give it a go. If you don't have one in the house, download an app version (YouVersion is great if you aren't sure which to get) and get reading. Start with the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John- the first four books in the New Testament) to find out all about Jesus' life on earth. James is another amazing book to read because it gives us practical ways to live for Jesus today and every day. Listening to some worship music (such as Bethel or Hillsong) is another way to spend some time in God's presence, and you can try praying at the same time- simply have a chat with God about everything you're thinking and feeling at the moment. Give your fears over to God and let his peace fill you up.

Philippians chapter 4, verses 5-6:

'Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.'

Yoga With Adriene- 7 Minute Yoga Boost

4. Do some exercise.

Admittedly, this might not be the first thing that springs to mind when you think 'fun', but after a few days, some exercise won't sound so bad after all. It doesn't have to be anything super strenuous, but have a go at doing something that means you don't just go from sitting at a desk, to eating dinner, to lying in bed. Doing some yoga when you first wake up is a great way to start the day off in a good mood, or you could do it before bed to help you wind down. Yoga with Adriene's YouTube videos are my favourites- give it a go with your family or housemates if you want a laugh. If you've got kids, then Joe Wicks is starting live PE lessons during the week (starting Monday) to take the pressure off parents for a bit. If the sun is shining and you've got the space, exercise in the garden so you get some fresh air and vitamin D too.

5. Get cooking.

It's easy to get so busy with life that eating well gets pushed down the list of priorities. If you're working or studying from home, use the time you've saved from not travelling to try out some new recipes. Looking in the cupboards first and then coming up with a dish is best so you can use up the food you've got before having to buy more. If you google a couple of main ingredients (say, sweet potato and chickpeas for example) and look at the search suggestions that pop up, you'll probably have a few options come up straight away. Enjoy this opportunity to experiment and find new favourite recipes!

6. Face-time friends/ family.

Whether you're a student whose had to come home much earlier than planned, or are avoiding visiting relatives in case of passing anything on, it's important that you stay connected with loved ones. I love coming home from university because it means I get to meet up with people I haven't seen in months, so it's weird having come home but not met up with anyone. Facetime has been a great alternative, because (good Internet connection permitting) it's almost like we're in the same room. Less hugging, but no less laughing involved.