These past few weeks, I’m sure you’ve gained a lot of free time. Maybe too much free time. Lately, I’ve needed to release my energy, and I’m sure a lot of people can relate. I sit on my couch, trying to motivate myself to get up and exercise. Having so much freedom and not being able to play sports can make it hard to get active. Staying motivated during such uncertain times is difficult, so here are some helpful tips to stay active and healthy while stuck at home.

1. Set a routine

Staying up until 1 a.m. then waking up at 12 p.m. the next day isn’t healthy and can cause your body to feel constantly worn out and drowsy. If you make yourself go to bed and wake up at a certain time, you will get used to the change and it won’t be so hard on your body. I try to make myself wake up at 10 a.m. everyday and knock out my school work by 2 p.m. It can be hard, but you will feel much more organized. You should also try to do the same routine everyday. For example, if you eat lunch at 2 p.m. on Monday, follow that every day so your body and mind can get used to this drastic change in lifestyle. 

2. Limit your screen time. 

Being able to go on your phone at any time is tempting and it’s easy to get lost in a spiral of Netflix episodes or YouTube videos. Once I get off my phone, I automatically feel better because it helps me get my mind off what is happening with the pandemic. When my screen time is up, I challenge myself to try  new hobbies and spend time with my family. To make sure you follow through with this, setting a certain amount of time you’re allowed to be on your phone is helpful. The screen time feature on iPhones has been very useful for me during this time. Then I know how much time I’ve been on my phone and I’m not sitting on my bed realizing I’ve been on my phone for the last four hours. 

3. Try taking up new hobbies. 

 I’ve been bored out of my mind lately, and that has made me try some of the weirdest activities to keep myself sane. For example, I brought out my sidewalk chalk which I haven’t used since I was in second grade. With all of this newfound time, you might find out you are good at things you didn’t know about. I have become a pro chef over this time in quarantine — making banana bread is my new specialty. Keeping yourself busy by painting, biking or trying other new activities is a great way to stay active. 

I’m tired of quarantine and I know I’m not the only one. By implementing a routine for myself, I have adjusted to this new lifestyle better. These tips have encouraged me to try and be as active and motivated as I can during these uncertain times, and I hope they can help you as well. Stay at home and stay healthy.