Tips To Stay Connected And Active While Physical Distancing

While many states are preparing plans to begin reopening and loosening restrictions on stay-at-home orders, many people will still find themselves choosing to stay home. Social distancing has become the buzz term of the year and for good reason—it works to slow the spread of viruses like COVID-19. For a society as social as we are, social distancing isn’t easy; it goes against our very nature to avoid our friends and family, and after a few weeks, it can really challenge us emotionally.

You may not realize it, but some of the most mundane moments in our day-to-day lives are the things we’ve come to depend on as routine and comfort. Talking to someone at the water cooler in the office, watching a sporting event at a bar and grill, or even browsing the racks at your favorite retail store. While seemingly unimportant on their own, these are the fibers that hold our world together; without these events, we’re left twiddling our thumbs and waiting. Here are some tips to stay connected and active while social distancing to help ease the wait.

Video Conferencing

Checking in on Family

We’re fortunate to live in a time where technology allows us to connect in many ways that weren’t available just a few years ago. Video conferencing, if you haven’t tried it yet, has become one of the most popular ways for people to connect personally and professionally during the coronavirus pandemic. Reaching out to a family member can be just the bit of social connection you, and they, need to brighten the day. This is particularly considerate for older members of your family that might be completely stuck inside.

Meeting up with Friends

Virtual happy hours, trivia nights, and karaoke nights have become the new way to keep old traditions alive. If you’re used to meeting up with friends at a local pub, park, or at home, you’ll find recreating those special moments virtually helps to maintain a level of comfort and normalcy that will keep your friendship strong and help cure each other’s loneliness.

Connecting with Co-workers

Whether you’re working or not, reaching out to co-workers to stay connected is a great way to keep your mind active and your professional relationships close. With many businesses struggling, and the economic landscape in flux, this is a great opportunity to get to know your professional network.

Staying Active

While the beach body might have to wait until 2021, there’s plenty of ways that you can stay physically active in and out of your home. Exercise is a great way to improve your mood, keep a routine, and avoid unhealthy habits while you’re hunkered down during the pandemic.

Take an Exercise Class on YouTube

Virtual fitness courses have replaced the old workout tapes, and there’s something for everyone. Try one or all of these exercises on YouTube. It’s a great time to learn something new!

Go for a Walk or Hike

Exploring your own neighborhood is free, and as long as you keep a distance of six feet from your neighbors, it’s a great way to get some easy steps in to break up your day. If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, many local parks and trails have remained open during this time. However, it’s important to review park and trail information online as the rules change quickly.

Now is the time to get creative, try something new, and to step outside of your comfort zone (as long as it’s six feet away from others). Be safe, be active, and stay connected.

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