For the mind
University work:
I know everything is up in the air right now with what will happen for exams. But this an opportunity to finally feel on top of things so take it. Put the kettle on, gather revision snacks and get out your notes. If by some miracle you are on top of this year’s notes, trying getting ahead of next years’.
Learn a language:
This is a great time to learn a new language. Consider downloading Duolingo to relearn your GCSE French or to pick up a new language entirely. You never know when you might need to use it.
Read a book:
This book can be non-medical, non-academic. If you loved Harry Potter when you were younger, why not re-read all 7 books? When else will you have that time again? Check out Goodreads to get inspiration and see what your friends are reading.
Puzzles:
A great way to pass time and keep the mind active!
Crosswords:
You may think these are for old people but they’re honestly so much fun! Have a book on the go and make it a team effort with housemates or family.
For the body
Go outside:
The latest guidance says the likelihood of transmitting from person to person outside is low as long as you keep 2m apart. So run, cycle or walk to your hearts content. National Trust have opened up their grounds for free so explore more of your local area.
Home workouts:
These can be found with a quick google. Youtube has lots of workout videos. For specific sports workouts check out your governing body, e.g. British Cycling Indoor Workouts or British Swimming land exercises.
Yoga:
Again this is very easy to do indoors. Consider ordering a yoga mat from amazon for comfort but otherwise no equipment needed. Lots of Youtubers out there offer yoga for free. Great for flexibility, strength and mindfulness.
Productivity
Write a blog:
What you have to say is important and you never know who you might help!
Have a clear out:
This is the perfect time to do odd jobs round the house, including clearing out clothes that no longer fit ready to donate to charity shops, deep cleaning the kitchen, defrosting the freezer… the list goes on.
Answer your emails:
Boring, I know. But imagine how they will build up if you continue to leave them
Creativity
Painting:
This can be really relaxing and you can end up making something beautiful to either keep and decorate with or gift to someone else. Don’t think you’re artistic enough? Try online tutorials or buy a painting by numbers kit.
Baking/Cooking:
If you’ve managed to buy ingredients in the current supermarket chaos, congrats! Now’s the time to try out recipes that take hours. Check out BBC GoodFood for inspiration.
Crafts:
Why not take up knitting? Or cross stitch? Or croquet? Plenty of kits available if you’re a total beginner.
Stay in touch
This is probably the most important one of all. This is hard, especially for the extroverts among us. Call, facetime, message your friends and family to your hearts content. And don’t forget there are others out there to support you too. Just because it’s a difficult time for everyone does not mean that you don’t matter. You deserve support so reach out if you need it.
MedSoc support – medsocsupport@nottingham.ac.uk
Samaritans – 116 123
Shout UK (text messaging service) – TEXT 85258
Kooth (online MH support for young people) – https://www.kooth.com/
Just tri'ing my best 