The pandemic has changed everything around us, making social distancing indispensable. In these
difficult times, it is even more difficult for children to stay at home, being cut off from friends and other social
events. Dear children, we all can utilize this time for self -improvement and view it as an ‘opportunity in
difficulty’. There are plenty of things that can be done to keep yourself active and productive. Underneath are
some suggestions to make the best use of this time.
READ BOOKS
To start off, there can never be a better option than reading books. I like nothing more than immersing
myself in a book, concentrating fully on the book, its characters and its storyline without distractions. We have
that opportunity now. Books are the food for our brain. Reading books enhances our vocabulary to a great
extent. (you can make a dictionary of newly learnt words). Reading strengthens our brain, improves
vocabulary, aids sleep, lengthens lifespan, reduces stress, fosters creativity and imagination. A well-read person
can easily carve a niche over others. Besides reading you can listen to audio books while doing all the
household chores. Here are some of the links given- https://www.juggernaut.in; https://www.goodreads.com;
Amazon kindle app; and https://www.audible.in; https://www.storytel.com. And yes, one more thing that is
The good thing about books is YOU CAN READ ANYWHERE!
LEARN A NEW SKILL
How about Learning a new skill or art form or enrolling on a free course for which you otherwise
never get time! Just doing some research and browsing will land you at so many courses people are offering
These days. Practising a new instrument is also an inventive and engaging technique.
START A DIY PROJECT
Explore the websites and local markets, if you can, offering various DIY (do it yourself) kits to keep
yourself engaged in creative tasks.
GROW YOUR GREEN FRIENDS
How long have we all been looking to begin this activity? When you are done with your household
chores attend to your garden. Look at the greenery, the colour and variety of flowers and plants you have.
Tidying up your garden, repainting the pots, pruning the edges of the hedges and planting new seedlings will
give a sense of accomplishment. Gardening is probably one of the most relaxing and de-stressing activities.
TRAIN YOUR BRAIN
How about trying some brainstorming and teasing when you have all the time in the world?
SUDOKU, CROSSWORDS, CHESS and MAZES and LABYRINTH are only a few examples. Here is the link
of another interesting brain teaser -http://www.lumosity.com
START A HOBBY
Getting extra time at home is a blessing in disguise. You can pursue your longing hobby. Indulging in
improving oneself will eventually add an extra charm to personality. Learning dance, brushing up your cooking
skills or trying your hands-on drawing can become a bonus in future.
MEDITATE
There is no point explaining the benefits of meditation here. The world knows its rewards and gains.
Meditation and concentration improving exercises will have long- term benefits on your health. There is a
myriad of YOUTUBE channels and videos showing the techniques of GUIDED MEDITATION and
MINDFULNESS.
MAINTAIN A GRATITUDE JOURNAL
‘Practice the attitude of gratitude’. When you get up in the morning, think of what a lovely privilege it
is to be able to think, to be able to breathe ,to be able to enjoy and to be able to love and be loved. Wake up in
gratitude and start counting and writing the blessings you are showered upon. Writing a diary or journal is also
a form of meditation.
Hope you would like the suggestions and adopt them. Wrapping up my article with positive thoughts. Keep
your spirits are high and have an unshakable faith in the blessings of God.
THIS TOO SHALL PASS.
