Things have been getting pretty intense these past few weeks because of COVID-19 and I want to send a loving reminder that our perspectives are a powerful tool. Quarantine isn’t just a time to binge watch The Tiger King on Netflix, this is also an opportunity for growth and personal evolution. In light of shifting perspectives, I have compiled a list of 10 things we can do to not only survive the pandemic that we face, but thrive during this time.

1: Give attention to a hobby you’ve neglected.

Whether it’s an existing hobby or one you’ve seen on Pinterest that you’ve been dying to try, quarantine gives you the time to work on your creative endeavors. Play guitar, learn to sew, play with epoxy, paint a picture, write the novel you promised yourself you’d get to two years ago – whatever it is, do it, it’ll feed your soul and lift your spirit.

2: Cleanse your space energetically and physically.

You know what they say…as within so without. Cleansing your outer space brings you inner peace, so burn some sage, light candles, turn on some good tunes and get rid of your clutter. Do your dishes, dust your light fixtures, organize your cabinets, clean out your closet – the more you do the better. This will make you feel productive and uplifted.

3: Take a dang shower.

Yeah, yeah…this one seems like a no brainer, but seriously, with all the layoffs happening because of COVID-19, I know it’s easy to wear the same sweats three days in a row and throw your hair up in a messy bun. Show yourself some love and get dressed and ready for the day. You’ll be amazed at how much better you feel!

4: Order a great book.

Support local by calling a small shop in your area and ask to have it shipped so that you can avoid the spread of the Coronavirus. Think of books that will boost your creativity and that make your heart happy. Some of my personal favorites are “The Power of NOW” by Eckhart Tolle and “You Are a Badass” by Jen Sincero.

5: Call and catch up with friends and family.

Use your self-isolation time to connect with the people you love. Call or write to people that you don’t have the time to talk with every day – I’m sure Great Aunt Sue would be thrilled to hear from you and she can totally use some of your positive vibes right now. The simple act of just letting someone know that you’re thinking about them and that you love them can lift their spirits and yours!

6: Get creative in the kitchen.

The COVID-19 pandemic has everyone rushing to the stores and stocking up. I challenge you to go through your cabinets and make some funky and delicious meals that you’ll never be able to recreate. Don’t measure your ingredients, just let your ancestors tell you when it’s all good. You’ll shock yourself with the delicious concoctions you come up with!

7: Start up a solid at-home workout regiment.

There is still time for your summer bod and quarantine is the perfect time to get it. Make yourself a Spotify playlist that revs you up, and hop onto Youtube to find some good techniques. Yoga, cardio, strength training…you can do it all from home. You don’t need fancy gym equipment, you just need a good attitude.

8: Educate yourself.

In 2020 we have a wealth of knowledge at your fingertips. Audiobooks, podcasts, documentaries, blogs, online courses…you name it. You can use this time to learn more about the world around us or look into topics that you find interesting. Make it a goal to come out of this Coronavirus quarantine with 10 fun facts to share with others.

9: Journal and document.

The COVID-19 pandemic is a major historical event that should be documented by more than just the news stations. You can do a video diary or a paper journal, but talk about your experience during your self-isolation. How do you feel? What did you do today? How has your life been impacted? How do you think this will change your life moving forward? All of it is relevant.

10: Practice meditation.

Even 5 minutes in the morning and evening can drastically shift your outlook. Studies have shown that daily meditation reduces anxiety and cultivates mindfulness. Self-isolation during the pandemic is a great time to start implementing some healthy habits into your daily routine.

11: And remember…

And please remember that staying informed and being responsible during the COVID-19 pandemic is not the same thing as being a victim to your circumstances. Make the best of your quarantine time and use it to feed your soul. It’s times like these that jolt us awake and urge us to delve deeper into our beliefs and our values – our truths. And it is my belief that we will come out of this different than we came into it. Like a Phoenix rising from the ashes, this is the beginning of our transformation.