Depending on where you live, you might usually greet someone with a hug, a handshake, a kiss (or three!) on the cheeks, or a fist bump. The COVID-19 outbreak has introduced a new phrase into our lives: “social distancing”. You may still wonder what it really means, or if you’re doing it correctly.
Social distancing is about finding ways to stop or slow down the spread of the COVID-19. The idea is to maintain a distance between you and other people. This means minimising contact with people, avoiding crowded places, choosing not to attend social gatherings, and limiting nonessential travel. A physical distance of two meters – six feet – is recommended by most authorities.
Large public gatherings such as concerts, conferences, and annual sports events have been cancelled or rescheduled. People are cancelling their birthday parties. But it does not mean you have to be out of contact with your family, friends, other loved ones and colleagues. Thanks to technology, there are many ways to keep in touch.
Social distancing in the effort to fight the COVID-19 pandemic can be challenging and may feel unnatural, but there are some ways we can make it easier:
- Don’t let social distancing translate into an unhealthy lifestyle and try not to focus too much on social media.
- Keep a routine, even if it needs to be adapted to fit the new reality of our day to day lives.
- Include plenty of breaks and set aside time to focus on your well-being or exercise. Use the opportunity to reassess your work and physical activity habits.
- Spend time cooking healthy meals with more fruits and vegetable.
- Don’t isolate yourself – physical distancing should not become social isolation. Leverage technology for work and to socialize and reconnect with friends and family. This will have a positive influence on your day and perhaps help other who are struggling.
- Engage in spring cleaning, clear that clutter.
- Try new activities to keep your body and mind engaged and active and pick up an old hobby again. Try listening to new types of music, try yoga or meditation and take up and new type of exercise.
Pick up a hobby you lost, read a book, treat yourself to a home spa day. Practice healthy habits like washing your hands, staying hydrated and maintaining your personal space bubble. And if you miss talking to your friends, Facetime can become your most used app!
Social distancing has been proven to play an important role in preventing the spread of a contagious disease like the COVID-19, as is practicing good personal hygiene such as washing your hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds.
For more information on COVID-19, please follow the below
links:
› World Health Organisation
› Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
1 Source: www.bbc.com, accessed 27 March 2020