[:en]CONGRATULATIONS! We officially got through the initial 21 days of lockdown! Well done for following the rules, for staying inside and for baking a helluva lot of banana bread. We’d like to think that we played somewhat of a BIG part in keeping you sane. I mean, our incred #StayENTERTAINED series is basically all you need to feel better, have a lekker lag and get some creative ideas on how to get out while staying home. So, you’re welcome ?.
Speaking of tips & tricks – here are some of our fave experts who are giving us a sneak peek into their lives during lockdown:
1| Alchemy on how to make the perfect cocktail at home
First up, we have our good ol’ friends over at Alchemy, Ballito, who fully understand the current can’t-get-my-fave-drink-during-lockdown-so-what-should-I-do issue and offered a helping hand. THANKS, guys, this is a real life-saver.
How to make a Belladonna Sour from scratch, in the comfort of your own home:
- Double shot Belladonna Nightshade Gin (don’t worry if you don’t have this particular gin at home, we’re all a lil’ desperate, so any gin will do)
- A dash of egg white (and NO, do not down the yolk for that challenge you’ve been nominated for. It’s gross. Just don’t do it, OK?)
- Single-shot lemon juice
- Half a shot sugar syrup
- Ice
- Blueberries
Method:
*Pro-tip: Before you start, fill your cocktail glass with ice and put aside to chill*
Into a cocktail shaker (or sommer a Consol jar with a lid on), add all the ingredients except for the blueberries and SHAKE, SHAKE, SHAKE (like a polaroid picture, of course). Remove ice from your cocktail glass and pour in the drink from your shaker. Garnish with blueberries & serve!
2| Sthabile Nogozo on to-do-listing her way through lockdown
“This is what has kept me sane through this lockdown. It gives my day structure and purpose.”
We couldn’t agree more, Sthabs. The days and weeks are all becoming one big smooshed-up pajama party and we need to be very disciplined to get up, get dressed and do our work. So, making lists (and do be realistic and kind to yourself here) is a way to help you do just that. Here are a couple of examples of the kind of lists Sthabile makes:
- Things-to-get-done-during-the-lockdown list: Think Marie Kondo or The 5 AM Club here.
- Budgeting list: You need real guts to tackle those finances of yours during an unsettling time like this. But, once you’ve done it you’ll realise that things aren’t that bad and that you will still be able to treat yourself to a proper cuppa every day (especially if you use your ENTERTAINER app once lockdown lifts)
- New-things-to-try-post-lockdown list: New travel destinations, restaurants, you name it. You might as well dream a little while you’ve got the time, right?
- What-to-watch list: Simply post an IG story asking your followers for some recs and voila. You’ll soon be enjoying Netflix and wine days all day, every day.
- Playlists list: You need a good playlist for every mood. SO, use this time wisely and start curating, DJ. This Spotify playlist might just kick-start this journey for you.
- Cook-your-sorrows-away list: Everyone’s doing it – cooking and baking every weekend. Gotta love the fact that everyone’s aspiring to be foodies now, lol. But, there are some great tips out there. We especially like FoodiesOfSA.
3| Slime Workshop on how to keep the kids entertained
Our hearts go out to all parents right now. It must be so freakin’ annoying having the little ones around ALL. THE. TIME. Yes, we know you love them, but geez Louise, there’s just no end to their energy. Make ’em some slime and experience the magic of peace.
Method:
- Mix your activator and set aside (sommer use contact lens liquid as the activator).
- Add 4 spoons of TWS Slime Solution to your bowl (if you don’t have this specific solution, you can substitute it for normal craft glue). Mix.
- Add 1 tablespoon activator and mix for 10 seconds. Repeat 3 times. Dip your fingers into the activator and poke the slime. Start to stretch and knead the mixture.
- Divide the slime into 3 portions. Make three separate balls and start adding some colourants little by little.
4| Tarin from The Chocolate Pretzel on why breathing is so important
Stress levels are high, we’re all deprived of human interaction and the four walls around us are creeping closer every day. We feel ya. That’s exactly why we need to set some time aside for meditation and self-care. We asked Tarin what she does to keep sane and she told us that she breathes. Simple, right? But man, it makes a huge difference to anyone’s day.
Here’s why it’s so important:
1. Breathing is our vitality, it oxygenates our vital organs to keep us alive
2. Gets rid of waste products that stagnate in the body
3. It acts as the link between our body and mind
4. It helps control emotions and fears and keeps a clear, sharp mind
5. Keeps you present
Keep your eyes peeled for some more hacks coming your way on a weekly basis.
Stay safe, stay home and #StayENTERTAINED.[:]