10 ways to make the most of your time at home: MoPH

If you're in the same boat as us and wondering what to do with some extra time on your hands as you stay home, why not consider the following recommendations shared by Qatar's Ministry of Public Health (MoPH).

Staying home may be a bit of a challenge for some, especially for those who are fond of being out and about. However, knowing how significant your actions can be in current times, it is highly important to avoid going outside (unless needed).

As you support the country's efforts in the fight against the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and stay home, you can utilize your time in several other activities.

Below are 10 ways, outlined by the Ministry, to make the most of your time as you practice social distancing at home:

1. Spend quality time with your family

This is an opportune time to strengthen family bonds by doing activities together such as cooking, exercising and playing games.

However, the Ministry reminds you to always keep a distance of 1.5 meters between yourself and others. 

2. Contact your friends and extended family

There may be some of your friends or extended family that you haven't spoken to for a while. Perhaps, this is a good time to reconnect with them online/ over social media apps.

3. Invest your time in personal development and exploring new hobbies

Another way to beat boredom and also feel like life is moving ahead as normal is to use your time to learn new things.

There may be some skills you've been wanting to refine or learn something new entirely, this is the time to do just that. Not only will it help you, in terms of personal development, but also let you brush aside any negative thoughts or anxiety you may have been facing as the pandemic continues.

You can enroll in some online courses or workshops, the Ministry recommends. 

4. Read

Take some time each day to read. You may want to read a book or look for interesting reads online. There are plenty of resources that you can avail of, free of cost. Read up on whatever you find interesting. 

5. Get creative with arts and craft

Arts and crafts are not only a great way to spend time, but also a fun way to do so. You can find a lot of tutorials online for different kinds of arts and crafts. Draw, paint or create, especially with children, the Ministry recommends. 

6. Expand your cooking skills

All of us love food. Since eating out is not an option now, why not create what you crave? Yes, look for recipes of your favorite foods online and try them out.

This may be a great time to innovate, experiment, and try fixing different meals. You might be surprised by your inner chef! 

7. Get active

Physical activity is really important to ensure good health. You may not be able to go to a gym, but you can make use of the free tutorials of home workouts online and try some new exercises. 

Challenge yourself to workout at home every day, the Ministry says. 

8. Take care of your mental health

The situation may be overwhelming, for some, but don't forget to take care of your mental health by doing the things that help you relax. Try yoga, meditation and breathing exercises, to help you keep your calm.

9. Listen to podcasts

In the last few years, podcasts have grown in popularity. If you haven't been regularly listening to any, try it out. You can find a range of podcasts on a host of subjects.

10. Rearrange your home

This may be just the right time to start changing things around in your home. It may have been a while! Look for some inspiration online, be creative and redecorate your house.

For any queries, or concerns related to COVID-19 in Qatar, the public can contact a 24/7 hotline set up by the Ministry. The hotline number is 16000 and is toll-free.

Here's everything you need to know about the virus, including ways to protect yourself. 

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Source: Twitter/@MOPHQatar