How to practice social distancing during the pandemic
Whipped coffee has seemingly been a popular trend amongst individuals during this pandemic. Image retrieved from Tasty
By Ally Ortolani
Opinions Editor
With these unprecedented times, some of us (like myself) may be going crazy not being able to go and do the things we’re used to. I should be nestled in some room in Cottrell Hall right about now, but alas, I am sadly writing this from my childhood bedroom. And let me tell you, I could use some North Carolina weather right about now; New Jersey weather is more unpredictable than back in High Point.
Don’t get me wrong, I love relaxing just as much as any other person, but when you’ve been forced to stay at home for weeks and can’t carry out your normal day-to-day routine, how does one not go crazy? To be completely honest, rekindling my love for Webkinz has gotten me through most of my days. Besides my unwavering love for Webkinz, there are a lot of options out there to do while being in quarantine:
- Netflix Party with friends
With the abundance of free time most of us students have, it’s the perfect time to catch-up on your favorite Netflix shows. But why do that alone, when you can do that with friends? Netflix Party is a Chrome extension that allows people to watch Netflix remotely with their friends. It synchronizes video playback and adds a group chat feature.
Netflix Party has been a personal favorite of mine, especially because my boyfriend and I have been able to watch Tiger King together. Side note: Carole Baskin definitely killed her husband.
- Read a book
Perhaps reading tickles your fancy, and with being in quarantine, now’s the time to catch up on that book you’ve been wanting to read. With the popularity of ebooks online, you do not even have to leave your house or wait for a delivery to get another story.
- Try making the infamous whipped coffee recipe from TikTok
This is definitely one of my favorite things to make while I am in quarantine. Every morning before I start homework or sign onto my Zoom classes, I make a glass of this very delicious recipe (and it’s easy to make as well).
All you need are four ingredients: instant coffee, sugar, hot water and your choice of milk. First, mix two tablespoons of instant coffee and sugar in a small bowl. Next, add two tablespoons of hot water and whisk the ingredients until the mixture resembles a thick texture. After that, fill your glass with ice and choice of milk (I use vanilla oat milk) and pour the whipped coffee on the top.
- Watch an absurd amount of TikToks like myself
I am guilty of watching hours upon hours of TikToks. Catch me watching videos when I wake up, when I eat and when I am about to go to bed. I used to swear that I would never download this app, but it’s been a source of comedic relief during these unprecedented times.
- Support local businesses
Don’t let the coronavirus stop you from eating from your favorite restaurants. You can still order from your favorite places right from the comfort of your home.
By downloading DoorDash, Uber Eats or Postmates, you can see what restaurants are available for delivery! Be sure to also call your local restaurants to see if they are participating in curbside pick-up.
- Get organized, deep clean
Didn’t have time to do some spring cleaning? Now’s the perfect time to get rid of all your junk that’s been hiding in your closet.
Do you know that zebra-pink Washington D.C. hoodie you bought in seventh grade? Yes, you should definitely donate that to Goodwill.
- Pick up a new instrument
Do you have an instrument that you’ve been wanting to learn finally? You can easily access YouTube tutorials on virtually any instrument you could think of.
During this pandemic, I have taken it upon myself to practice both my guitar and ukulele skills; and I can do it from the comfort of my bed.
- Make masks
Practice your sewing skills by making DIY masks for health care workers in your area, especially since there has been a shortage of masks. By doing something as little as making masks for those in need, you can make a tremendous impact on your community.
- Connect with friends virtually
Every week, my friends and I FaceTime each other to stay (virtually) connected. I know we all miss our friends back at our beloved university, and by calling one another every so often, we can still in-touch.
Tell your friends you miss them by giving them a call.
- Get creative! Start a new hobby!
Perhaps you have some art supplies at your home like me. I have been personally fond of painting with my watercolors. I wouldn’t go as far as to call myself an artist, but painting has been a source of relaxation for me.