While emergency distance learning may have begun on April 6, many students are still finding themselves with an abundance of extra time on their hands. Even though you may not be able to go shopping or spend time at the beach, there are still plenty of activities that can keep you occupied during quarantine. 

For many of us, quarantine is the perfect time to try something new, such as picking up an instrument, learning how to paint or cooking dinner for your family. 

“I’ve tried barbecuing, which was fun, and making pasta from scratch,” junior Arvin Ding said. “I’ve always wanted to try cooking, and now seemed like the perfect opportunity. It’s also harder to get food between the closed restaurants and lines at supermarkets, so cooking seemed like a great skill to pick up.”

If exploring a new hobby seems daunting, quarantine can also be an opportunity for activities previously crowded out of your schedule. Watch the movie you’ve always meant to watch, do some spring cleaning or spend time reconnecting with family members. 

“We’ve been playing a lot of bingo because my grandparents came from Bangladesh a few months ago, and that’s their favorite game…My siblings and I have also been playing a lot of Mario Kart and Super Mario Bros.,” junior Zarah Taufique said. “Before, I didn’t really have time to talk to my family because [of] how much work my classes gave me throughout the week. I’ve really been able to reconnect with my family, especially with all the activities my mom plans.”

Though the transition to emergency distance learning may feel overwhelming at times, allowing yourself to take a break, whether that means chatting online with a friend or indulging in your favorite food, can often be the best remedy for stress.

Or, if you’re feeling a little claustrophobic after spending days inside, get out of the house for a while. As long as you are maintaining adequate social distance, try going for a walk with your family or a quiet jog alone. 

“My son and I usually go for a walk around the neighborhood in the mornings, and I’m out playing with them, my son and my daughter in the afternoon,” physical education teacher James Welker said. “The chemical release that happens in your body through exercise helps with emotional stress, helps with physical stress, helps with mental stress.”

If you’re still searching for other options, try making whipped coffee or creating your own quarantine playlist to keep yourself busy.