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Baking -

Baking is easy these days with such a vast amount of online classes, instructional videos, and recipes to help us. It doesn’t require much preparation or tools. It’s a very relaxing endeavor, and the bonus is that you get to indulge in a tasty treat afterward.

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Having a games night -

A games night is a sure-fire way to get your blood pumping and your heart racing. It’s great to keep your brain sharp, and you can do it with whoever you live with or online. There are endless games to choose from, so there’s bound to be one that tickles your fancy.

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Revitalizing your skin -

Taking care of our skin is very important, especially as we get older. Facial masks can give our skin a lift and make us look younger. Though they can be painful if not done correctly, they are usually pretty easy to apply and remove, and while it’s on you can do any other one of the activities on this list.

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Taking a bath -

Taking a bath is one of the most relaxing ways to pass the time. If you find yourself bored, bring a book, listen to some music, or even watch something while you soak. It’s fantastic for your skin and circulation, leaving you feeling relaxed and revitalized.

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Watching movies -

If there was ever a time to watch that movie that’s been on your list for ages, it’s now. Maybe flick on that saga or trilogy that everyone has been talking about forever. Sink into the couch and watch time slip away as you get swept away by a classic film.

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Gaming -

Although some people have negative connotations with gaming, it can be fantastic for the brain and a fun way to pass the time. There is a world of games out there, and some of them don’t even require a console. You can play on your phone or your computer. Do a little bit of research, pick a game that looks fun for you, and get playing.

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Karaoke -

Besides fun for adults, karaoke is an excellent activity for kids too. There are also games and online platforms that can help you out with getting things set up.

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Learning an instrument -

Learning an instrument these days is not as difficult as it sounds. It only takes a little bit of time every day, 20 minutes to begin with, and you will be able to play some songs in a short time. Some great instructors on YouTube will start from the very beginning on any instrument you can think of.

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Painting -

Painting is well known to alleviate stress and relax the mind. It can also help us to express our emotions, whatever they may be. The great thing about painting is that anyone can do it. There is no right or wrong. You can go at your own pace or learn some new techniques. Connect with your inner child and put something on the canvas. You might be surprised by what comes out.

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Make a list of goals -

Setting goals is beneficial in many ways. It’s fun to dream about what we can achieve in the coming weeks, months, or years. Identifying what we want to happen is also the first step to making our dreams a reality. Listing your goals will get you excited about the future, so you’re not worried about the present.

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Having a cocktail night -

Most cocktails are not that hard to make, and there are plenty that you can make without a shaker. Daiquiris and martinis are just two of many very simple yet tasty alcoholic beverages that can be made in moments.

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Writing a bucket list -

Getting your bucket list down on paper is an overwhelming process because it reminds us of our limited time and how much we want to do before we die. Still, it can be entertaining and creative and can get us excited about living the rest of our lives.

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Tie-dyeing old clothes -

Tie-dyeing has always been a fun thing to do and is something else you can do alone or with friends from the comfort of your own home. There is very little needed to do it, and it’s a great way to resurrect some of your old clothes. Tie-dyeing is also another activity that kids will love.

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Organizing your wardrobe -

Cleaning out your wardrobe or your room is a great mood booster. It’s a manageable task, and once it’s tidy you will feel more organized in general. Everyone says that a tidy desk is a clear mind, and the same goes for your wardrobe.

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Planning your next trip -

Now might be the right time to start thinking about and planning your next holiday. There’s an entire world out there to be explored, and it will still be there when the pandemic is over.

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Making jewelry -

Designing jewelry is easy, depending on what level you’re operating at. Kids can do it with the right toolkit. Not only is it a relaxing activity, but there is a tangible product at the end. Some of the most thoughtful gifts are ones we make ourselves, so maybe it can be a present for a loved one when it’s finished.

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Getting cultured interactively -

Many art galleries, museums, zoos, and aquariums have upped their efforts in creating more content and interactive tours to keep us entertained during the pandemic. So if you want to get a little bit more cultured or just gaze at beautiful wildlife, you can do so easily online for free.

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Getting crafty -

Lego and other activities like this are not just for children. There are endless kits that you can get that range in difficulty and sophistication. It’s a healthy way to pass an afternoon, and gives us a great sense of achievement when it's assembled.

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Doing crosswords -

Crosswords are usually associated with old, retired people, but they are for everyone. They’re a great way to keep your mind firing on all cylinders and even better if you can do them with family or friends.

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Learning a new language -

Learning a new language has never been as easy as it is now. It takes days (yes, days) to gain a foundational level of most languages if you download an app on your smartphone and follow the exercises every day. You will surprise yourself by how fast you will learn using these apps and impress everyone at your next dinner party.

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Indulging -

Try Indulging in the finer things in life. Wine, cheese, and chocolate all release dopamine in our brains. Dopamine is the happy chemical, so it’s no wonder why these foods and drinks are so addictive. If there was ever a day to kick back and let yourself enjoy the finer things in life, it’s Blue Monday.

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Looking after your mind and body -

There is plenty of physical activity that we can do from our own homes. All you need is a bit of space to get your blood pumping. The endorphins that are released during and after exercise will reduce stress and help you feel good.

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Making a scrapbook -

If you haven’t done so already, making a scrapbook with photos and text can be a beautiful experience. It will remind you of better times, the wonderful relationships you have, and instill hope that good times will come around again.

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Caring for your nails -

Doing your nails is something that will help you pass the time and make your hands look beautiful. Our hands are our most important instruments, and they work pretty hard, so give them the break they deserve by gathering your gel nails, tips, or acrylics and putting them to use.

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Giving or getting haircuts -

This can be very fun if nothing goes wrong. If it does, you have options, like buying dye, going to a pro, or waiting for your hair to grow back!

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Order food -

If there is any day to take the weight off and order your favorite cheat meal, Blue Monday could be the day. Everyone has their favorite takeout. The options are endless, so choose whatever you want, relax, and have food brought straight to your door.

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Cooking something new -

If you are feeling a little more motivated, try cooking something new. Again, there is an endless supply of content that is there to guide you. You may find it relaxing and learn something. It helps to find an instructor online that you like to listen to. With the right teacher, you’ll be surprised by what you can whip up.

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Writing letters -

There has never been a better time to put pen to paper to write letters to your loved ones. There’s something much more meaningful in handwriting a letter over sending a text message.

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Binging your favorite shows -

Blue Monday could be a day that you are a little easier on yourself and simply chill out while binge-watching your favorite series. There will be plenty of days in the future that you can be productive and healthy. It may be wise to accept it and let it pass while distracting yourself if you are feeling down.

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Catching up with friends or family -

Video calling our friends to have some drinks and catch up on what's happening is tons of fun, and it may provide you with some relief from being alone or stuck with the same few people for weeks or months at a time.

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Reading -

With so much entertainment available on our screens today, it’s easy to forget how enjoyable reading is. It’s very healthy for our minds to get away from the bombardment of overstimulating content from our devices. There’s something for everyone in this department, so find something you like, and settle down to read with a hot drink.

Source: (FutureLearn)

See also: Celebs in quarantine– Self-surgery and beyond

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