So, here we all are, back again in another COVID lockdown. At this point you have probably already made every different variation of banana bread, Tiger King is so 2020 and, let’s face it, you’ll never finish the crafts you bought the supplies for last March. So, we thought it’d be best to find some more things to keep you occupied this time around!

We covered the basics of upping your at-home self-pleasure game and virtual meetups last lockdown . Have a flick through our articles on DIY sex toys, sex and love in lockdown and sending tasteful nudes if you still need some inspiration. 

For now,  let’s look at some things you can do in and around the home.

First of all, start a list

You don't even have to achieve anything on it! Just the simple task of writing things down on a list has been proven to help fight anxiety during unsettling times. Write some things that you would definitely like to achieve, others you’d maybe like to achieve, and some things that might be a nice activity to do with family or flatmates. As the days can easily blend into night, there is something satisfying about crossing stuff off a list. No matter how big or small! 

1) Cleaning

This is something that can sometimes be put on the backburner when life isn’t in lockdown. Life gets busy - we get it - but when was the last time you:

• Took everything out of your pantry and gave it a good wipedown?
• Got under your bed and cleaned that dust buildup?
• Got rid of those late-night McDonald wrappers in your car that seem to live there now? While you’re there, maybe give it a good vacuum?

Having a nice and tidy space is great for your wellbeing and can help to increase focus. There’s nothing like the feeling of self-accomplishment of going into a tidy space after a deep clean!

2) Re-organise your bedroom

A straightforward, manageable task like this is not only a satisfying way to pass the time but it offers a newly-refreshed space to spend time in when you are inside for so much of the day. Who knows what old clothing or keepsakes you might find that you can pull back into rotation! 

Some options to try:

• Change where your bed sits in your room
• Rearrange your decorations
• See what's lurking under your bed
• Clean out and declutter your wardrobe
• Experiment with lighting

3) Haven't been tested in a while?

Now's your chance! With casual sex on hold and plenty of spare time, there has never been a better opportunity to order a (free!) at-home HIV self test and help break the chain of transmission. No matter the result, you are better equipped for Fuckfest 2021 when this is all over! Results arrive in 20 minutes and it couldn't be simpler - check out this video for how easy it is.

4) Need some group activity ideas?

In lockdown it can be great to reach out and hang out with others inside your bubble. Think of some activities that can break up your weeknights, or plan an event for the weekend. You could cook or share a meal together, play some cards, or dig out an old board game!

Some people are holding QuaranDine With Me competitions, where a different flatmate is designated to cook something special for that night. It doesn’t have to be competitive but it’s a great excuse to get everyone out of their track pants and share a meal together. Another fun thing is to theme your house for a bit of escapism! Maybe it’s a night away to the Greek Isles, India or the USA - get creative! Think a vegan moussaka followed by a sing-a-long to Mamma Mia. 

Some other ideas

• Get some exercise in your local neighbourhood if you can
• Sit outside in the sun and listen to Aotearoa’s spectacular birds
• Join a virtual exercise or dance class
• Start an art project (you don’t even have to finish it!)
• Upcycle your furniture
• Spruce up your garden

Just remember that you don't need to feel as if you have to be doing something productive every day. Take the days as they come. Tick off things on your to-do list or don’t, it's entirely up to you how productive and interactive you feel like being!

Don't actually feel like doing anything? 

That's ok, these are unsettling times and sometimes doing things can be the last thing you can manage beyond watching Netflix in your pyjamas. They are all valid responses to what’s going on. If you are feeling your anxiety pick up during the lockdown then check out this article we put together  for helpful ways to manage it.  Just remember, if you’re feeling low don't be afraid to reach out and contact these services! They are still operating under lockdown and are here to help you through it.