How individuals choose to spend their time during social distancing gives light to inner desires and self-discovery. 

With the exponential spread of COVID-19, people around the world worry for the health of themselves and their loved ones. How we cope with our time in quarantine says a lot about us. Without any outside pressures, you can do whatever you want—from the confides of your home. 

Personally, I have been catching up on sleep. To counteract the excessive amount of Z’s, it’s necessary to have daily physical activity. 

If you have pets, it is easy to put in an effort to walk your animals! While congregational areas such as National Parks and forests are closed, most trails are still open to the public. Since so many people are staying home, there will be an increase in animal activity at these locations. If this option does not spike your attention, take a walk in your neighborhood or livestream an exercise class.  

Since classes are strictly online for the rest of the semester, I moved back home. With that in mind, there is so much work that could be done in our living space to increase everyday quality of life. This is the perfect time to deep clean or sort through clothes and items that could easily be donated to the local shelters, churches or Goodwill—once they open back up. Build that donation pile. 

Tidying up living space is not the most enjoyable pastime, but you can make it exciting! Listen to different music playlists, an audiobook, catch up on those Netflix shows everyone is talking about or re–watch something you already have. I would never judge the media you enjoy.  

After you tap out of each cleaning session, it’s time to dedicate specific hours to assignments and other work. Turn in your anxieties and continue to strive toward a wholesome state of mind. 

As a college student, I am worried about the structure for the rest of the semester. I’m sure everyone else is panicked about their future obligations as well. One thing is certain: life moves on. You have a responsibility to limit your contact with others. The more you comply, the faster we can move on and repair some of the damage this pandemic has forced on all sectors of society. 

With the stay-at-home order implemented in Colorado, those who are considered “non-essential” should be self-quarantining. Even though we cannot go out with friends, video calls are the next best option for social interaction. This is a scary time for all of us, so spread love through virtual affection and attention. Seems easy enough. 

While remote working, it’s extremely important to stow away time from the screens that consume us. While physical exercise is important during social distancing, so are the arts. Reading, doing a puzzle, painting and cooking are all creative outlets you can take to escape. At the same time, do not be ashamed to relax and sleep away some free time. 

This is a perfect time to develop the relationships you have with yourself and the people you live with. Frustration is inevitable in this time of physical isolation, but you are not alone. The internet has gifted us with endless opportunities for human interaction without the physical components. 

Remember: this time of uncertainty and helplessness is temporary. Do not just listen to government officials and reputable sources, hear them. Solidarity will get us through this trying time.