Social gatherings banned: 5 ways to make the best of isolation

at 12:38 pm

New Delhi (NVI): As the coronavirus pandemic is tightening its grip over the globe, with governments asking their people to socially distance themselves, virtual connections have become more important than ever before.

Although WHO has made it clear why we need to stay away from one another, confining yourself to home is no easy task. Loneliness is already a social health crisis itself, with roughly 1 in 3 adults experiencing it to some degree, according to the World Economic Forum.

Here are the five ideas to stay (virtually) social and make the best of isolation:

1. Throw your own film festival

Technology has already addressed this, and there’s never been a better time to take advantage. You can playback video at the same time, mute to discuss key plot points, and even enjoy a meal or drink together while you watch Netflix shows.

2. Keep up to a routine

With many of us working from home – or indeed not working at all – some rules and structure can help. Keeping routine following the things you usually do in daily life can help to ground us in times of isolation.

3. Do online courses

There are countless options, the internet gives you access to a number of courses from institutions including some big institutions as well. If there can be such a thing as a silver lining to the COVID-19 crisis, one might be that we all have more time. Why not put it to good use by doing an online course!

There are many courses which are free, but if you’re happy to pay a small optional fee, you can get a certificate too.

Or simply take the opportunity to learn about something you’ve always been interested in.

4. Enjoy the sunshine and exercise if you can

While we’re self-isolating and socially distancing, going outside is still okay in many cases, at least for a limited time. You could take a walk in your lawn or terrace and let the natural surroundings relax you.

Even if you can’t go out or to the gym, you can still come up with some good exercise to do at home.

5. Dress up and video calling

The internet makes it easier to continue doing some of the things you like, virtually. Video conferencing was growing in popularity before the pandemic and offers a great way to stay in touch with friends and family.

Finally, if you’re struggling to cope with the coronavirus crisis, always keep a look at the World Health Organization’s helpful advice.