Quarantining The Nerdom

Sunday we talked about how to handle quarantine when it comes to work and your mental health. Today we talk about how to handle quarantine when it comes to your nerdom health.

I am on day 8 of quarantine. Some of you might have been in sooner, some later and some not at all, but no matter which path you're on we all have to look out for the health and stability of our nerdom. Well, everyone except for the Animal Crossing fandom, they are thriving right now. Set them aside though and the rest of those in quarantine have some time on their hands that needs to be filled. So? Let's fill it.

Comic's

Obviously my first suggestion for filling in your quarantine schedule is comics. And since you can't go out, I figured I would give you some options depending on what you are looking for. American style? Manga? Webcomic? Don't worry there is something out there for you, and I am here to show you the way.

American Style

For American style comics, an easily accessible but with a wide variety library would be Comixology. They are an Amazon company that you might not be as familiar with since they are often over shadowed by Kindle. But don't count them out, they are here to bring you some comic goodness. They have everything you're looking for and you can access them via their mobile app, their website, or your Kindle if you have one.

Manga

If you are looking to avoid virus' and the chance of bad translations I suggest going a little more legit when looking for your online manga. Don't get me wrong, I have a manga app on my phone that is taken down regularly causing me to continuously have to reinstall BUT we are better than that people. We need to support each other more than ever so it is time to be legit. Therefore, I am recommending Crunchyroll. We've talked about Crunchyroll quite a bit here on My Mess but never for their manga selection. But if you have a Crunchyroll subscription you get the manga too so take advantage of that. No virus', no scanlation comparisons, no endless searching. Just hassle free manga at your fingertips. They have a mobile app and a website for your viewing pleasure.

Webcomic

I shouldn't even have to post this! I feel like Webtoon and Crunchyroll have become two of our biggest topics here on Nerdom, but alas, I shall continue on because they deserve it. Who knows, maybe one day they will see I deserve to be sponsored. If you are looking for webcomic's, look no further. Webtoon is the number one place to go my friends. If you are looking for recommendations on comics please reference some of my previous articles on here: "The Part Two You Never Asked For" and "A Nerdy Dream Come True". If you need even more suggestions than that, please message me on social media and I will give you everything you need. Webtoon's can also be viewed by mobile app and their website. Oh, and did I mention they are completely free? Because they are. Just saying.

Anime

This is where you get lucky folks. Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Video all have anime selections. Most of you will turn to binging shows as your default for burning quarantine time, so explore your options. If you are wanting even more than what your average streaming service can provide, of course I am going to recommend Crunchyroll. Crunchyroll does have a free subscription level but there are many ads. But remember people, ads are better than viruses and we are supporting people this quarantine as best we can. So, if you can't pay for the anime than watch the ads. It's a win win and your computer will thank you for it later. Another option if you aren't interested in any of these is Funimation. They are another all-anime streaming service with many popular titles. Paid subscription is required here however, but it's a good one.

A bonus note on this category: don't just watch TV all day for however long this lasts. Switch things up a bit. I know it's tempting to lay on that couch and never get up but trust me you need to move around. Couches can be carnivorous.

Gaming

Like comic's we are going to split this one up a little bit. Because there is room for all kinds of gamer's here: video, board, and of course, D&D.

Video Games

Well, I hear Animal Crossing is out. Personally, I have been hunkering down with Stardew Valley. Chase has also been doing this by borrowing James's Switch while we are working remotely. Mainly because all of the Switches sold out upon quarantine. So, hey, this category must be bumpin'! Pick out a game, sit down and get your game on. Keep in mind that online gaming is an amazing tool to be with your friends. Utilize that during social distancing, we still need some friendly interaction. Just make sure you put it down once and a while and move around. Like I was saying in the bonus note in our "Anime" category. This is where I highly recommend reading my article from Sunday, "Quarantining The Mess". The biggest take away, even for the nerdom, is to not become a Wall-E human! So, break it up and have some variety in your quarantine routine. Yeah, I'm talking to you Animal Crossers. But know in moderation, gaming is a great thing to have on the schedule.

Board Games

James and I have been facing off almost daily in Dominion. I have slaughtered my husband, sister and mother in Catan and plan to do so again tonight with Ticket to Ride. The point is, board games are here to give you a healthy outlet to let out your aggression on those you are quarantined with. That's right, you might not be able to kill people literally but you can crush their spirits in a game if you wish. Or, if you are feeling more chivalrous, break out a co-op.

D&D

We live in an amazing time with technology that allows us to be together no matter how far a part we really are and we don't utilize it nearly enough. Can I suggest a video chatted campaign? Sit at a table with your laptop and some dice, have your friends sign on, and let the role playing begin! 'Nuff said.

Crafting

When you have time on your hands, one of the best ways to eat that up is crafting. And trust me there are plenty of nerdy crafts out there. I highly recommend checking out Pinterest and seeing what nerdy item you can create this quarantine season. I am working on a Legend of Zelda craft that I hope to write all about in the future.

Well friends, there are plenty of nerdy options to fill you quaran-TIME. Get it? *clears throat* Anyways, no matter you do, I hope above all else you stay safe. I know times are scary and hard but let's make the most of what we can by enjoying the things we can control. Make sure you balance out your schedules with some fun, relaxation, and rest. And I have a special request for you all: If you end up doing any of the things we talked about here today, take a picture and tag My Mess or myself on social media! My Mess is on Instagram and I am on Facebook, Instagram, Snap Chat, and Tumblr. I can't wait to see what you all did during quarantine 2020!

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That is it folks, thank you for tuning into another installment of Nerdom here on My Mess. I hope you will join me again on Sunday for The Mess. Finish out this week with something different than you'd normally do, switch things up a bit! Stay nerdy, stay messy (in a quarantine approved way), and stay safe friends!