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Things to Do During Coronavirus Lockdown and Quarantine
The COVID-19 pandemic changed the world in ways none of us could have imagined. It affected economies, communities, and, most importantly, our minds.
Yet amid all the uncertainty, lockdowns also gave us something rare — time — time to reflect, create, and rediscover ourselves.
Prayer – Art by Chaitanya Ingle
For once, we could pause the constant noise of city life and focus inward. This was our moment to care for ourselves, our families, and even our nation. not through grand gestures, but through patience and discipline.
Here are a few meaningful things we learned (and can still practice) from those days of quarantine, ways to make life more mindful, creative, and balanced.
1. Focus on Health — Move, Stretch, and Meditate
Meditation, painting by Mohmad Rijwan
Physical health and mental peace go hand in hand.
Whether it’s light stretching, yoga, or meditation, a few mindful minutes every morning can strengthen immunity and calm the mind.
You don’t need high-intensity workouts to stay fit, simple breathing exercises and consistent routines make all the difference. The goal is not perfection but persistence.
2. Declutter Your Space and Your Mind
We’ve all postponed cleaning closets and organizing shelves. But tidying up your physical surroundings often declutters your thoughts too.
Arrange your wardrobes, dust your bookshelves, or create a small corner just for reading or art.
A clean and organized space radiates positivity; it’s an instant energy boost for your mind and mood.
3. Reignite Your Love for Cooking
Use your kitchen as your creative studio! Try out that pasta recipe or bake the cake you’ve been saving for “someday.”
Just remember basic safety, mask up when shopping, keep distance, wash your hands and ingredients thoroughly.
Cooking isn’t just about food; it’s about comfort, patience, and joy. And yes, food always tastes better when you make it yourself.
4. Reconnect with Your Hobbies
“Khamoshi (Silence)” Painting by Sanjeev Shashwati
Art, music, dance, this is the time to return to what makes your soul sing.
Wet your paintbrush again, play your guitar, or just dance in your living room. You don’t need to be perfect; you just need to feel alive.
Artist Sanjeev Shashwati beautifully captured the pandemic’s emotions through his painting “Khamoshi” (Silence), reflecting how creativity can express what words cannot.
Even Bollywood actor Salman Khan turned to art during the lockdown, creating a striking charcoal sketch that reminded fans that creativity has no limits.
Salman Khan charcoal artwork (source: India Today)
5. Enjoy the World of Movies and Music
“Self-Quarantine” painting by Umesh Chandra Bharti
After a day of chores, creativity, and self-care, unwind with your favorite films or songs.
Watch the classics you missed, explore documentaries, or revisit old comedies that make you laugh. Art, whether visual or cinematic, has always been humanity’s best medicine.
6. Invest in Yourself
Personal growth never stops.
Take an online course, learn a new language, study classical music, or explore the history of famous artists.
Knowledge keeps the mind agile and gives life a sense of purpose, something many rediscovered during those quiet months of quarantine.
7. Keep a Journal
Write down your thoughts, daily moments, and reflections.
A personal journal can become your quiet therapist, helping you track your growth, set goals, and remember how resilient you truly are.
Young artists can even list what they wish to achieve; it’s a small step toward big dreams.
8. Cherish Family Time
“Family Time” painting by Dr. Chaman Sharma
One of the greatest blessings of lockdown was rediscovering family.
Talk, laugh, cook, or simply sit together without rushing. Share stories, listen more deeply, and express gratitude.
Even in tough times, these shared moments became priceless, a reminder that relationships are our true anchors.
In Conclusion
Let this spirit of introspection and creativity continue, even beyond lockdowns.
Take these lessons with you: nurture your body, declutter your space, feed your soul, and treasure your loved ones.
By caring for ourselves, we make the world around us stronger, calmer, and more beautiful.
