The COVID-19 outbreak has instituted new daily habits for each of us, whether you are one of us mandate to stay home and/or someone who is working longer, harder hours than before to keep us safe. Either way, we are all restricted in our ability to physically connect with one another.

 

These restrictions may exacerbate an already growing problem for us and our loved ones: social isolation. Social isolation can (but does not have to) lead to loneliness. I believe limiting physical interaction does not have to mean stopping social interaction altogether. Doing a variety of activities can help you remain connected with, and even expand, your social circles.

• Write a letter to a friend and include a photo of you together. (I have included a copy of a letter and photo that a friend sent me this week below.) I felt very special that she had taken the time to send it.
• Read a book to a niece, nephew or neighborhood kid via video chat.
• Have a virtual house party by downloading the house party app and adding your friends. It is great fun, and you can play trivia games together.
• Do an online workout. Choose from one of the thousands of fitness routines available on YouTube or from a local fitness instructor and work out together, but in separate locations, with your exercise buddy.
• Volunteer online. This is a great way to do good for others right from your home. Options include supporting projects at the United Nations, assisting the Smithsonian Institution, or helping people in need at the Crisis Text Line.
• Host a virtual get-together. If you can’t meet your friends in person for coffee or lunch, move the gathering online via a group video chat. Even try a happy hour with some trivia (I have found out that some of my friends are much more competitive than I thought!)
• Teach others your skills. If you’ve been waiting to show the world your special talents, now’s your chance. Use your phone to create short teaching videos and post them online.  Maybe you will be the next Martha Stewart or Ree Drummond with your home crafting or baking skills!

As all the commercials on television have said recently...apart, we are in this together. If you want more tips and tricks for connecting virtually, check out Blue Zones Project on Facebook.