Load-shedding has now become a basic part of South African life. Not only do we keep our eyes on the news to find out what is happening in our area, but most of us are also seeking cheap ways to get through load-shedding. Whether we are trying to keep our batteries charged, stay connected on social media, or get through the icy cold fronts that have been hitting parts of the country, we can do so without being miserable. Read on to get ideas for affordable but fun ways to pass the load-shedding hours with your family and friends.
Eskom’s Plea
Before we dive in, remember that we should all play our part in lessening the burden on the grid. For Gauteng residents, City Power Johannesburg urges its customers to unplug heavy appliances such as geysers, stoves, and heaters at least 15 minutes before the restoration of power after load-shedding to avoid trips. Appliances may be plugged in 15 minutes after power has been switched back on to enable the load to stabilise first. Most importantly, unplugging will limit damage to household electronics.
10 Fun Ways to Get Through Load-shedding
Spatlo by Candlelight
Many of us enjoy an overloaded Spatlo/Kota. More South Africans have been buying takeaways because of load-shedding. So, why not turn up the adventure or romance by sharing your favourite takeaway meal surrounded by candlelight? Add to the ambiance with some scented candles, a few great memories, and chill music to the mix.
Moja Café can hook you up with the best local food in Gauteng.
Take a Luxurious Nap
Research has found that over half of South Africans prefer to take a nap during load-shedding. Grabbing just a 30-minute power nap has numerous health benefits including memory improvement, and lower blood pressure, stress, and anxiety. And nothing beats the cold weather better than a short trip to dreamland with a water bottle in your arms when it is possible.
Learn a New Skill
We live in a YouTube era, where we can learn almost anything for free. Load-shedding hours can be the time that you finally learn that new skill you have been putting off. You can self-teach how to play a musical instrument, go through the basics of coding, learn how to do your hair or perfect your cooking chef-style. The list is endless, but excuses are not.
DIY at Home Spa
This one is for couples. There is nothing like an extravagant bubble bath with your significant other to chase the load-shedding blues away. You can easily create a DIY spa and have date night indoors. Pamper your boo with a facial (use household ingredients to create a face mask) or a foot massage or a soothing and unforgettable full-body massage.
Listen to Live Music
South Africans and music belong to the same WhatsApp group. And Gauteng is vibrant with incredible spots to catch some awesome live music. From Carfax in Newtown to Native Rebels in Soweto, you will be spoiled for choice. Let talented native musicians light up your world with their beautiful melodies.
Catch Up on Your Favourite Podcast
Forget about the dark while listening to your favourite podcasters as they educate and entertain you. Podcasts are a growing phenomenon in the country because they keep their listeners up to date with the latest news in entertainment, sports, politics, events, and products to buy.
Download a Few Episodes of Your Most Loved Series
Escape to the thrills and suspense of your treasured Netflix and ShowMax shows; they are available to download and consume in the dark. Gather your kinfolk under a big blanket and spend time in front of a screen watching some much-loved content.
Learn a TikTok Dance
Ask anyone who uses the TikTok app, and they will explain to you how addictive it is. There are endless challenges that include the newest dance crazes; several influencers post tutorial videos that can be tried at home. Why not join in the fun and update your moves so that you can show off your talents?
Write a Letter
Receiving a handwritten letter will never get old. Surprise the people in your life by showing them how you feel with an inspired and poetic letter that is done in your writing style. They will be grateful for the thoughtful gesture.
Games to Play in the Dark
Just because you cannot see, it does not mean you cannot have a great time. Try these games to liven the 4-hour load-shedding stretches. These are recommended for groups of 2 or more people and the best thing about them is that you can make up the rules together.
Spotlight Charades
Shine a flashlight on one player as they act out the title of a movie, TV show, book, or song.
Glow Stick Bowling
Put some glow sticks in empty water bottles and set them up at the end of a passageway/runway. Take turns knocking down the ‘pins.’
Read more: A Guide to Navigating Load-shedding in Gauteng.
Guess the Object/Food
Let everyone bring a secret item/food for the others to try out in the dark. The person with the most correct guesses of the strange item/food wins.
Signals
This one is for a larger group; everyone must have their own torch. Pair up and create a flashlight signal. Once this is done, spread out and try to find your partner using the agreed-upon signal.
Guess the Lyrics
Break out into teams. Play a well-known song and the others should guess the lyrics. The team with the most correct guesses wins.
