Lockdowns are emotionally exhausting; particularly if you’re a mum. We spend all day looking after our little ones and once they go to bed, it can be tempting to just stick on the TV or scroll on our phones.
Instead of indulging in screen time, why not try one of these five lockdown activities that will distract you and help you switch off after a hectic day.
LEGO Isn't Just For Kids
When I found out that there was a "LEGO Ideas" set based on the Friends television series I put it straight on my Christmas list. I didn’t know that LEGO even did sets for adults (or 16+ as it says on the box). To be honest I pretty much buy anything based on my favourite show and I fancied having a piece of Central Perk to add to my collection. However, once I started constructing it I became addicted to the process. It’s so relaxing (especially compared to building with an 8-year-old) and once I’m in the zone I don’t think about anything else.
Adult Jigsaws
Jigsaws are another one of those lockdown activities that you’d typically associate with kids. However, considering that versions aimed at adults have 1000 plus pieces, these definitely aren’t child friendly. I have my eye on one featuring the Brooklyn Bridge and another showcasing the Trevi Fountain. So I think I’m going to start dropping some hints…
Painting, anyone?
You’ve probably had your fill of DIY jobs by now but painting your walls a different colour isn’t the only way you can get creative with paint. There are loads of craft kits available now that make it easy to try something new without having to do tonnes of research. I’m definitely tempted to try watercolour painting and it looks very rewarding, with very little mess. I’ve been searching for some new art for the walls, but you never know, I might surprise myself and end up framing my own pieces!
Grow Your Own Herbs
I don’t have green fingers and there’s no vegetable patch for Peter Rabbit to get lost in in our garden. However, I would like to start growing a few herbs on our kitchen window-sill this spring. Popular herbs for beginners are basil and rosemary. All you need to grow your chosen plants or seeds are some pots, and potting compost or soil. It will be great to simply pick off the fresh herbs as and when needed (presuming they grow for me). Although I won’t involve the kids in the planting process on this occasion, I’m sure they’ll love checking how much they’ve grown each day.
Calligraphy It Up!
The final of my lockdown activities is calligraphy - I haven’t practised it for a few decades (eek)! But, with the current trends for labelling everything in your kitchen presses and for designing unique stationery, I’m thinking of taking it up again. I’d still consider myself a beginner, so I’m going to put a "Calligraphy Starter Kit" on my birthday wish list. These typically include a couple of nibs, a pen holder, the ink, a ruled practice pad, and a step-by-step guide. It’s definitely more time consuming than designing stationery and labels online, but I’m hoping it’s more satisfying too!