Staying Safely Social in Pandemic Times

September 29, 2021

 The pandemic has put a real damper on our social lives. All of a sudden, concerts, weddings, and graduations were canceled. Our social lives seemed to have stopped, and many of us longed to see our friends and family again. Here are some of our favorite strategies for keeping connected.

Video conferencing systems, like Zoom, became widely popular since the start of the pandemic – not only for work and school, but also for friends and family to connect with each other. Technology like this is here to stay. Both the technology itself and our ability to use it effectively has been steadily improving. The heavy demand for videoconferencing has also helped to improve broadband and internet infrastructure for everyone. Whether you are talking with your neighbor or with a  sibling across the country, socially connecting online can help you stay connected with others, no mask required!

The warmer weather has helped friends and family be social in person and allowed for many outdoor activities that can be done at a safe distance in backyards and driveways. Pack a picnic for the park and invite others to join you! The spread of COVID-19 outdoors is lowered, since it is an open air area. Remember to keep about 6 feet distance from each other. Place a chair or blanket in advance at the safe distance to help everyone stay safe. Make fresh air and familiar faces part of your regular social routine.

Staying physically active helps to boost immune system function, improve mood, and provide lower risk social time. Outdoor activities like walking and biking are perfect social opportunities. A regular physical activity routine with a family member or friend means a regular check in with each other. A double dose of dopamine!

Although not for everyone, many people enjoy social media in moderation to share photos of food, a selfie, or a beautiful view. Social media is a great way to show off flowers or vegetables that are growing in your garden, or places where you are enjoying your physical activity. You can join online groups that are also interested in the same activities that you are interested in. Although social media may not be not a physical interaction, it does give you a chance to give updates and share moments with your online circle.

Some of our social circles may have gotten smaller with less in person time, and some may have gotten bigger with social media. We may let go of friendships that no longer serve us –but we replace them with stronger, more meaningful ones. Making long lasting friendships through shared interests using whatever media works best can help to take the sting out of canceled events and gatherings. Eventually, these things will return – and when they do, we will once again enjoy them with our favorite people.