Humans are social creatures by nature. Isolation can therefore be a difficult reality for us to face. So, how do we maintain a sense of community during this necessary lockdown, while adhering to all the rules?
We asked our friends and family how they are trying to stay connected on a wider sense during the lockdown. Here are some of their suggestions:
#1 Our favorite idea is the teddy bear walk!
Whether you have kids or not, this is a great way to help out families in your communities. Simply pop a teddy bear in a window or area of your property that can be seen from the street. Children and adults alike can then play ‘spot the teddy bear’ as you go for walks in your neighbourhood.
Top tip – swap the hiding place of your teddy every so often to help keep this activity alive in your community.
#2 Early Christmas lights
This one made us laugh! We are coming to the time of year where the nights start to draw in and the clocks turn back, so decorating your home with Christmas lights is a great way to brighten the streets. You don’t know who you might make smile with this idea!
Top tip – the wackier the better – let’s make people laugh!
#3 Video chat exercise groups
People are live streaming or having zoom calls to collaborate with group exercise! Exercise is a great way to help relieve stress. It won’t completely take away stress, but it definitely helps. If you are a personal trainer or yoga teacher, why not offer people the chance to join in on a virtual class while you’re stuck at home?
Top tip – we all start somewhere! What have you got to lose?
#4 Video chat coffee mornings, weekend drinks or dance parties
Whatever you did with your friends pre-lockdown, do it via Zoom or another video chat tool like FaceTime. We have been having great success with our work coffee mornings!
Top tip – set up your phone or laptop so you don’t have to hold it and be on screen. This frees your hands for gestures which help break the screen divide that is our ‘new normal.’
#5 Start a new hobby or learn a skill
We all have a hobby or skill we wished we had given a go or always meant to take up. With nowhere to go at night or on the weekend, now is your chance! Take up a new interest and share your progress with your friends via social media – or simply do it for you. These things help give a sense of purpose and normality and will give you a talking point or shared new interest with those you’re locked down with.
Top tip – there are thousands of online tutorials if you need help. Search your idea and see where it takes you!
If you’re stuck for video calling options, you can try the following:
- Computer or laptop: Zoom or Skype
- Smart phone: FaceTime, WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger.
