5 Ways to Stay Entertained in Lockdown

It's almost been a year since the UK first went into lockdown in March 2020. However, despite the good news about vaccines, it seems as though little has really changed. Without the lovely summer weather to keep us feeling positive and enjoying the outdoors, it definitely feels as though lockdown has hit much harder this time around. 

If you're fed up of the latest lockdown fads or need a break from endless doomscrolling, I'm sharing some top tips to keep you busy - and entertained - during the lockdown.

1. Reconnect

Are you bored of seeing the same faces every day? Try to view the extra time with your household as a positive thing. Whether it's your partner, parents, kids or pets, spend some quality time with them and really make the most of it. Alternatively, jump on a call with friends or family further afield. Don't be tempted by Zoom quizzes - just have a good chat with someone you care about. We all lead busy lives and it's incredibly easy to feel isolated in the modern world. Lockdown is the ideal opportunity to slow down and reconnect with those closest to you. 

2. Have a Laugh

Laughter is often the best way to cheer yourself up if you are struggling. Have a laugh with a friend or watch something funny to give yourself a little boost. I highly recommend Mischief Movie Night In - live improv comedy streamed directly to your home. Trust me, I haven't laughed so much in ages!

3. Watch Something New

If you haven't fallen out of love with your TV yet, lockdown is ideal for catching up on all those shows you said you'd watch but haven't got around to yet! Stuck for ideas? I recommend:

• The Umbrella Academy (Netflix) - superhero fantasy drama
• Staged (BBC) - satirical sitcom filmed and set during the pandemic
• The Crown (Netflix) - chronicling the life of the Queen 
• The Serpent (BBC) - tense true-crime drama
• Good Omens (Amazon Prime) - good vs evil fantasy
• Ghosts (BBC) - comedy series with a supernatural twist

Alternatively, grab a bowl of popcorn and your favourite drink, and snuggle up on the sofa to enjoy a movie night. 

4. Be Productive

Some of us are naturally more active and adventurous, and if you are one of these people, being stuck inside must be extra hard. If you are struggling just sitting in front of the TV, why not channel your energy into something productive instead? There are plenty of at-home workouts available if you need to keep active, or you could invest your time into learning a new skill or doing some DIY around the house. 

5. Read!

I will never pass up an opportunity to encourage others to read, and this is no exception! Most of us now have more time on our hands than ever before, and with the weather dull and the temperatures low, heading outside isn't exactly appealing at the moment either. Whether you're a seasoned reader or you're struggling to find the right book for you, set aside some time to read or listen to an audiobook. It's the perfect excuse to escape into a brand new world and pretend Covid doesn't exist for a few hours! 

Although these ideas may not work for everyone, they will hopefully help you stave off the boredom and make the most of living the 'new normal' lockdown life!

Do you have any tips to add? Share them in the comments below!