It’s safe to say that most of us are a little more anxious at the moment, given the uncertainty in our city, country and around the world. The COVID-19 pandemic is sweeping across the globe and impacting us all. Quite simply, this shows how connected we all really are and now more than ever, we each need to do our part to help contain this crisis. WE. ARE. STRONGER. TOGETHER. Let’s heed to the universe and slow things down and take an important pause from life.
And while we adjust to our new normal of self-isolation, let’s take the time to reflect on what’s most important in life and be with the ones we love. Not gonna lie, it’s not going to be easy, but we’re here to share some ideas and inspiration for how to fill your days. A little indulgence, self-care and connection is exactly what we need at this time.
Netflix and chill: Surely, this is the first task for everyone! Finish that series, watch that bad TV show you’ve always wanted to or have a movie marathon! The time is now to be a couch potato and not feel guilty. We recommend checking out: Love is Blind, Next in Fashion, and The Final Table. Perhaps avoid movies like Pandemic and Contagion for the time being.
Create a playlist: music is like therapy, a great playlist can heal the soul. Play those tunes, sing along out loud or have a dance party in your living room or on the deck and have your neighbours join in. Currently on repeat for us is Blinding Lights by The Weekend and Dance Monkey by Tones and I, both upbeat and catchy!
Spring cleaning: if you love the concept of Marie Kondo, the minimalist Netflix lady helping people de-clutter, but have yet to actually act on it, maybe today’s the day? Out with the old, in with the same, but do it differently. Or maybe cull your pantry, cupboards, clothes or re-arrange your lounge and living areas? It’s amazing how a good spring clean can clear the mind.
Connect with a loved one: while we are all social-distancing, we do not have to disconnect from one another. Pick up the phone and call or FaceTime a loved one, friend, or neighbour. We can all use a friendly voice or face right now. May we suggest a FaceTime wine night with the gals? And please, please be sure to check in on your elders…they are most vulnerable during this time and need our love and support. Many mobile carriers are waiving data overage charges right now, so there’s no excuse not to stay connected wherever you are in the world.
Self-care: sometimes it’s the small things in life that make us feel better, with a fresh manicure being at the top of the list. Take some time for yourself, push your cuticles down, slather on some hand cream and choose a fresh shade of spring for your nails that brings a smile to your face. And don’t forget about your face, it could benefit from a little rejuvenation and hydration too. Put on your favourite mask, kick your feet up and relax. Shop all your self-care goodies online at: London Drugs, Lush, Sephora, Saje Wellness, Kiehls.
Curl up with a good book: it’s time to read that Heather’s Pick or that book that’s been sitting on your shelf for the last few months. Reading is one of life’s greatest joys and the best way to escape the everyday for a while. Get inspired by a best-selling memoir, indulge in a chick-lit or find yourself in the midst of a page-turning thriller. We recommend pairing your paperback with a cup of tea or a glass of wine – blanket and cozy socks optional. Our top picks: Becoming by Michelle Obama, Real Love: The Art of Mindful Connection by Sharon Salzberg or You Are Awesome by Neil Pasricha.
Board games: or shall we say bored games? Rediscover your childhood with a game-filled afternoon and whether Monopoly, Scrabble, Solitaire or Jenga is your thing, it’s the perfect way to pass the time. So dust off the games and battle yourself or fellow at-home-self-isolators to some competitive fun. This is the ideal time to add to your game collection, order your favourites online from Indigo and enjoy free shipping until March 31st.
Get moving: replace your gym visit with an at-home workout, with squats, burpees and press-ups, all achievable without equipment. Transform your living area into a yoga space and stretch it out. Take a moment to get centred with a few breathing exercises to help keep you calm. Follow along Saje Wellness’ social media for the best meditation tips and tricks when working from home.
Shop online: you may not be able to stroll along #onRobson and shop all the new Spring lines, but you most definitely can get inspired and shop 24/7 online. Enjoy free shipping being offered by places such as: Couturist, Plenty, Aritizia, Sephora, Reigning Champ and more!
Order take-out: missing going out for happy hour with friends, or craving your favourite dish from that Korean place around the corner? Continue to support your local restaurants and order take-out (minus the delivery fees)! Some delicious eats available for delivery #onRobson include: Earls Restaurant, Cactus Club Cafe, Kosoo Korean, Perverted Ice Cream.
We hope you’re able to stay positive, stave off the boredom and take social distancing as an opportunity to re-charge and keep healthy. Stay safe, friends and please share with us your self-isolation tips and ideas! We will get through this together.