By now, we have all become very familiar with the term “social distancing.” We have received numerous tips on how to do it properly, and we understand that it is vital right now in order to stay healthy.
However, humans are social creatures who need to feel connected to others; these social connections also keep us healthy by helping us thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally. Here are some resources and tips to help you stay social connected while you are sheltering at home:
• Call, text, email or video chat with at least one person daily. Ask how they are coping. Talk about how you are doing during this difficult time. Or share fun facts about each other. What music do they enjoy? What kind of movies? Reaching out to others is a wonderful way to get out of ourselves and take a break from our worries.
• Write letters or send cards to friends and loved ones. Tell them how much you would appreciate a reply. Connecting in low-tech ways are just as meaningful, maybe more so now than they have ever been.
• Watch live-stream videos on Facebook and interact in the chat box. We will be streaming our mindful movement classes on Tuesdays at 11 a.m. Why don’t you join us? “Like” and/or “follow” our
Facebook page
for details.
• Create a private Facebook “group” for your close friends or family. Having a place where you can let your hair down with a closer, smaller group of people may be the perfect way to beat the self-isolation blues.
Click here for instructions.
• Share what you are doing daily with others (either by text, phone or social media). Did you just read a great book or try out a new recipe? Did you just organize your pantry or closet? Try out a new DIY project? Reach out and let people know!
• Connect with friends and family using apps like
Skype
,
Facebook messenge
r
, or
Zoom
that allow you to video chat with several people at once. Get creative: host a virtual family reunion, happy hour (with or without adult beverages), or game night.
Below are links for tutorials to get your started.
• Consider attending a worship service or a book club virtually. Some clubs, churches, and synagogues are using Facebook, or the apps mentioned above to host meetings, religious services and studies, or general communications with their members. Consider inquiring with your clubs or religious organizations what they offer and if you are interested, join in!
• Think about creative ways to stay in contact with your neighbors. How about organizing a Zoom neighborhood meet-up group? Or starting a neighborhood email group? Or joining your neighborhood’s Facebook page?
There are many ways to stay connected and bring your friends, family, neighbors and community together, but make sure you are respecting the current guidelines for social distancing.
Please let us know what ideas you have for staying connected during this time. We are happy to hear how you are staying busy and active while staying safe! We would love to share your ideas and maybe you will inspire others. Or just reach out to us if you could use a little "lift" from us – the main number is 850-891-4000 and it will be forwarded to a staff member’s phone from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Shout to authors - Melanie Lachman, Ruth Nickens,
Interns Judy & Kiki, and editor - Audrey Byrne!