Things to do with loved ones in lockdown

THERE’S no doubt we’re living in the strangest of times. As the country becomes more aware of the health crisis the world is facing, there is no better time to take stock of all that is healthy, happy and positive in life.

And although the goings on in South Africa and further afield can be frightening, we need now, more than ever, to stick together and show the ones we love how much we appreciate them.

So while you may not be able to head out for date night, there are still tons of ideas to pull off within the confines of your home.

Orbit, the bubblegum brand, has top date ideas for lockdown love:

Dress up and cook something special

We might be stuck at home but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy a date with our number one. Why not cook a special meal, get in your glad rags and turn up and turn out for a sophisticated evening of love, laughter, food and fun?

After all, who needs to go out when you can fine dine looking sensational in your own home?

Make it a theme night

Choose a theme and centre everything you do on that. For example, if you pick a Mexican theme, get crafty with fiesta decorations, make authentic tacos, drink tequila and watch How to be a Latin Lover on Netflix. There are so many options. Go Italian with pasta, tiramisu and opera or revisit 1950s America for burgers, shakes and a golden oldie like Grease.

Have a home picnic

If it’s warm enough, head out into your garden and have a picnic. If it is a bit too chilly, spread a quilt out on your floor, make some top-notch tasty sandwiches, and enjoy indoor date vibes with a difference.

Create a spa night

To really unwind and pamper yourselves, create a spa night at home. You can be as ambitious as you want and can include facials, manicures, pedicures, massages and a bubble bath or steamy shower. Make it extra special with spa food like strawberries, chocolates, cucumber or fruit-infused water. Light some candles, lay out fresh towels, play some relaxing spa music and chill out.

Take YouTube dance lessons

Just because you’re on lockdown, does not mean you can’t get your jive on. YouTube is full of videos on how to do just about any kind of dancing. Bring up a video and have fun learning some new routines and dance moves with your lover.

Have a game night

Put your phones down for a night and gather out all the board and card games you can find. If you want to up the ante, why not bet household chores or favours for each game? Make a range of finger foods and enjoy a little healthy competition. Just remember, no sore losers allowed.

Watch a concert at home

Find a recording of a concert of a favourite artist you both love and create the experience of seeing them “live” without the crowds or dodgy sound from the comfort of your own home. Dance, sing and hold hands along to your hearts’ desire. Who says lockdowns can’t be fun?

Do some body painting

Release your inner Van Gogh and do a little painting together. Turn the heat up and use each other as canvases. You can either purchase some body paint that glows in the dark (very cool) or you can make some of your own that’s edible.