During this period of social distancing and self-isolation it’s easy to feel cut off from the outside world, our everyday routine and active social lives. Whether you’re at home alone, with a partner or family, face-to-face interactions are limited and it can be an extremely lonely period. It’s all too easy to pass the time on the sofa, scrolling through social media or binging on the latest Netflix series. However, as the days roll into weeks it’s increasingly important to get a daily dose of social interaction for the sake of our mental health. Having a strong support network and community can improve our capacity to cope with stress and will get you through this strange new time.
Here are our top tips for keeping you connected
SOCIALISE REMOTELY
Just because you can no longer physically see your friends and family doesn’t mean you can’t still interact. Online communication has never been more accessible with the rise of Zoom, Skype & Houseparty. Set up daily calls with your extended family and friends to see a familiar face and bring conversation and laughter to your day. During the weekend you can arrange a digital dinner party, drinks and quizzes or even listen to live music together.
FOLLOW LIVE WORKOUTS
It’s no secret that staying active can improve health and mental wellbeing. Why not schedule a workout into your daily routine to get sweaty with your pals from the gym. With hundreds of live workouts to choose from across Instagram, YouTube and digital apps, it’s never been a better time to get fit, whilst staying interactive.
Miss training at Third Space, we’ve got you covered with your favourite instructors streaming Instagram Live workouts daily. Find the schedule HERE.
CHECK IN ON YOUR NEIGHBORS
Now is a great time to get to know your neighbors, particularly those who are more vulnerable to the side effects of isolation or in quarantine. Post a simple note reaching out to support with food shopping, gathering supplies or even just offering a friendly call to someone who is lonely. This could be crucial for people who don’t have a wider community to lean on and may result in a lasting friendship. You can also check out your local borough Facebook page for ways you can help out in your surrounding area.
START A BOOK CLUB
Found yourself reading more books lately and want to discuss the plot twist of your latest novel? Why not set up an online book club and reach out to friends and family to join. This can be on Instagram, Facebook or Whatsapp and allows you to recruit unlimited people from all over the globe. Not only does reading give you something calming to do in the evenings, but it also leads to stimulating conversations outside of work and the day to day grind.
Want some book suggestions, take a look HERE for our hottest picks.
LEARN A NEW SKILL BY JOINING ONLINE CLASSES
Try and find some positives amongst all the madness by making the most of the extra time you have on your hands. Online courses are a great way to broaden your skill set and meet new people. Now is the perfect time to step outside of your comfort zone and get creative. Feeling uninspired in the kitchen? Bread Ahead are offering free online bakery workshops via their Instagram and every Friday Rude Health run a live 30 min cookery video on Facebook. Or why not try your hand at photography, art lessons or learning a new language.
In short, try and make the best of a bad situation. It can be easy to get swept up in the challenges of social distancing and let this reflect into negative thought processes. However, making a few simple changes and adding fun activities to your day will transform your at home experience
