11 things to keep you happy during self-isolation

Even for the most optimistic of us, the world is looking pretty gloomy at the moment.

And whilst we can't underestimate the very real stresses that many people are facing, there are a few silver linings that might help you keep going in the face of ongoing anxiety.

From free yoga classes and self-care apps to learning new skills and looking out for others, here's our pick of some of the best things you can do to make yourself (and your loved ones) smile over the next few weeks and months

11 things to make you smile during self-isolation

Learn something new: at bit.lyeverything inbetween, FutureLearn has plenty of short courses to keep you occupied.You can take lessons written by academics and experts from the NHS, British Council, hundreds of top universities and more.

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Get cooking: at bonappetit.comhere, and has also collated a great list of 70 pantry-staple dinners here.We've also got some suggestions: see our best vegan cookbooks list here and best budget cookbooks here.

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Have a movie night: at youtube.comNetflix is the obvious one, but Disney+ is also just about to launch and will have plenty of brilliant films and TV shows and there's NOW TV as well.But if you don't fancy paying for any new services, there are actually lots of free to watch (and legal!) films that have now passed into the public domain. A quick Google will bring up exhaustive lists of such films, but the YouTube channel above is a good place to start, hosting dozens of classic public domain films.

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Catch up on your reading listBest sci-fi novelsBest free books for KindleBest mindfulness booksBest audiobooksBest graphic novels

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Game onThe best iPad gamesThe best iPhone gamesThe best PS2 games of all timeThe best retro consolesBest PS4 gamesBest Xbox One gamesBest Nintendo Switch games

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Learn the art of mixology: at theguardian.comguide on learning to make your own drinks, and we have some of our own suggestions when it comes to ingredients:Best ciderBest rumBest American beerBest ginBest pink ginBest Irish whiskiesAnd if you want to stay off the booze, we've got you covered too:Best non-alcoholic spiritsBest tea brandsBest coffee machines

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Get colouring: at AmazonAdult colouring books were a huge trend a few years ago – and whilst their novelty may have dissipated somewhat, they're still an excellent to engage in some calming, mindful or grounding leisure time.There's also a lot of variety – Amazon currently has colouring books based on tattoo designs, fashion houses, animals, the jungle, and swear words, so you're sure to find something you like. We particularly like this Kew Gardens flower book.

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Free yoga classes: at youtube.comYoga with Adriene is a great (and rightly popular) option, and many yoga teachers are now streaming yoga classes live.If yoga isn't your speed, the Nike Training Club app has plenty of exercises for you to do from home.

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Brilliant board gamesAlright, so having a big board game party right now probably isn't the best idea. But if you're in isolation with your family, getting into some new board games could be a great way of passing the time and making sure you stay connected.We put together some of the best board games out there earlier this year – click the link above to see our picks.

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Discover the world of podcastingThe best comedy podcastsThe best celebrity podcastsThe best interview podcastsThe best political podcastsThe best true crime podcasts

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Community mutual aid groups: at covidmutualaid.orgAt a time like this, it's easy to feel totally helpless – and, with self-isolation, it can be alienating too.To combat this, and to help the more vulnerable members of our communities who can't leave their homes, mutual aid groups have been set up across the UK. This pair people who are able to leave the house with those who can't, helping them access food, medication and moral support.To find a group in your area, see the link above.

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