7 tips to self-improve while you self-isolate

1. Meditate

The world is facing unprecedented times and such uncertainty can lead to many anxious feelings. Meditating can lead to greater mindfulness and help you take control of these anxious or negative emotions. Research shows that meditating, even for just ten minutes per day, can have transformative impacts on levels of stress, engagement and overall wellbeing. There are many free apps (like this one from Headspace) to help you get started on your meditation journey. If you're willing to spend some money, the Calm app has specific meditations dedicated to building resilience, handling exams and even meditations from LeBron James on training your mind! 

2. Play games that make you think

If you are looking for ways to ease your dependency on technology but still keep entertained, how about some old-fashioned card games? These don't have to be the clichés like go fish and snap (although they can be fun) but strategic games that will get your mind thinking like Euchre. Otherwise, you can't go wrong with Uno, although be sure not to make enemies out of your isolation buddies.

3. Do a virtual workout

We all know the benefits of exercise, but with lockouts extended to gyms and sports, it can be a little tricky hitting our minimum 30 minutes per day. Heaps of gyms and yoga studios are providing virtual classes through apps and their social media. Some are paid subscriptions, while other gyms are doing free live stream sessions. Be sure to keep an eye out on UOW's UniActive socials where they'll be posting online exercise classes.

4. Learn a language

Isn't it on all our bucket lists to one day learn a language? Well, what better time to do so than in self-isolation? Work a different part of your brain through apps like Duolingo and Memrise, where you could be speaking the languages of love such as French or Italian. Today, more people in the USA are learning a second language on Duolingo than in schools. The app allows you to link up with your mates and see who is better at mastering a foreign language. Plus, employees love candidates who can speak more than one language, so it may just serve you in the future!

5. Listen to a TED talk

Hear from leading experts on a range of topics by watching a Ted talk. From the psychology behind why people are hoarding toilet paper by Dr Hans Hacker to how to be your best self in times of crisis Psychologist Susan David. Ted talks are thought-provoking and insightful personalised talks that will challenge your very way of thinking. Below are some popular Ted Talks to get you started:

• Your body language may shape who you are
• Inside the mind of a master procrastinator
• The power of vulnerability
• Why we have few too many female leaders

6. Cook

With limited access to restaurants and cafes, why not take this time to brush-up on your cooking skills? Website Moving Out Eating In and Instagram account the happiesthealthyproject provide affordable and healthy recipes for you to try and master. Or, take a step back in time and try making one of the wartime shortages recipes from a 1994 edition of the Australian Women's Weekly.

7. Marie Kondo your wardrobe

While Marie Kondo was the trendiest thing to happen to 2019, given we are spending more time at home, her tips on organising your space may be more relevant than ever. Start by throwing all your clothes in the middle of the room, pick each item up and ask yourself "Does this bring me joy"? If it does, you keep it, if it doesn't, you donate it to charity - simple! By decluttering your home and reorganising your space, you can reduce clutter and stress levels and lead to a healthier you.