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While it is difficult for most of us to be removed from our family and friends during the coronavirus pandemic, it is important that we all practise social distancing as a precautionary measure to keep ourselves and our communities safe.
This doesn’t mean we have to lose touch with those who are important to us. Thanks to the marvel of modern technology there are many ways to keep our bonds strong.
Chat groups are a great way to share the little snippets of daily news that keeps us feeling a sense of connection to our families and communities. Baked a great loaf of banana bread? Send a photo to the family group! Found an old pic from after-work drinks with your colleagues? Send it to your work squad. Sharing memories is a great conversation starter and helps us remember a time when we were all together.
Many of us are working from home with kids and family members that need taking care of. Days can still be hectic, even as we’re confined to our home and it’s easy to forget to check in with those close to your heart. Scheduling a weekly video and getting the whole extended family involved is a great way to ensure everyone stays connected. Make sure to include the youngest and the oldest in your family. With routines disrupted, their days may not be as fulfilling as before.
Remember family isn’t limited to just those who share your DNA. Extend the idea to whoever you’re close to and miss during these distancing times. If that’s your Running club, Ultimate Frisbee enthusiasts club or the gang you usually eat lunch with at school or at work, foster the connections.
Communication is an important tool to help manage the stress and anxiety associated with social isolation. If, like many, you’re experiencing digital fatigue, try sending a loved one a note via the good old postal service. We seem to have forgotten that communication doesn’t have to be instantaneous. There are those amongst us who remember the simple joys of a postcard or a handwritten letter.
Don’t let the big days go by without marking the occasion in some way. Not being able to celebrate births, birthdays, anniversaries and graduations in person as we usually would is a hard pill to swallow during social distancing. Acknowledging and gathering for these moments is an important ritual that helps us mark the passage of time. Use what you have at your disposal to commemorate these times. Whether that’s a dinner party via screens or a collage of your times together, be sure to recognise the event.