By 
While COVID-19 aka “Rona” is running rampant in these streets, we’ve been advised to engage in social distancing. In California’s Bay Area, we’ve had a shelter-in-place order since mid-March.
The part of me that’s an introvert is doing pretty well with social distancing. The part of me that enjoys going out and doesn’t like being told what to do, however, is struggling a bit. I like having the option to do what I want, when I want. Going outside and being around friends and family isn’t an option right now. Here are 5 things I’m doing to stay connected, from a distance.
Phone a Friend
With the popularity of texting, I sometimes forget that my cell phone has a feature that allows me to make phone calls. Now might be the perfect time to catch up with friends and family members. Consider using a program that supports video calls so you can have some quality face time. WhatsApp, Google Hangouts, and Zoom are all great options. These programs are especially helpful when connecting with social butterflies who live alone.
Netflix and Quarantine
If you’re like me, you’re open to watching pretty much any and everything on Netflix. Netflix Party (an extension on Google Chrome) allows viewers to watch programs while chatting with friends. It almost feels like you’re on an episode of The Circle. Speaking of The Circle, you might consider watching that and Love is Blind. Both are entertaining reality shows, and great examples of social distancing.
Exercise with a group
Okay, this one is a bit of a stretch. See what I did there? There are a bunch of interactive workout apps where the instructors talk to you. Maybe refrain from talking back. Also, check out local gyms and studios because they might be offering real-time virtual classes on platforms like Instagram Live or Zoom.
Host a game night
Though we can’t be in the same room as our friends, we can still have fun with them. Grab snacks, your drink of choice, and get ready to play. Trivia, puzzles, games like Cards Against Humanity or Black Card Revoked…the possibilities are virtually endless. To keep friends and family entertained, I create my own questions for a game I’m calling STFAH. You can get your own copy of STFAH!
Hop on IG Live
So far, the real MVP of social distancing has been DJ D-Nice. One day he hosted a nine-hour set, and I didn’t think about coronavirus one time. If you need a distraction, check him out on Club Quarantine. Verzuz, a series of online battles curated by Timbaland and Swizz Beatz, comes in at a close second. Not only is the music entertaining, but you can interact with people in the comments.
That’s a glimpse of what I’ve been up to while sheltering in place. What are you doing to stay connected as we attempt to flatten the curve? Let me know in the comments.
By 
Great tips!! I know many people could use these tips to keep from going insane.
Yea, sheltering in place can be difficult!
I didn’t know about netflix party! We are going to check that out tonight. I think my son would love to watch something with his grandparents!
I love these tips, I definitely have to try the Netflix party extension, my BFF and I are rewatching Stranger Things and it would be nice to do it together
Netflix Party is a lot of fun! Sounds like a great way to watch Stranger Things…I’m at least a full season behind on that show.
I have been watching a lot of Netflix! I’ve also checked out IG Live. I haven’t done one, but I watch other people.
I haven’t done IG Live either, just a spectator right now 🙂
I like the idea of being able to hop on IG live and also using the different modes to talk on the phone using the video mode.
IG Live has been very entertaining!
We are mostly just going crazy here. lol. We have been hanging out with my neighbor friend though with her kids and those are the only people we had contact with… havent even seen my family! Me, my brother and sister are group messaging a lot though. I guess I need to use some of these creative ideas though and get out of this isolation funk a little.
It’s easy to fall into a funk. You should definitely try a game night with your family… it’s a game changer!
Believe it or not, I’ve neglected Netflix during Rona! I need to check some things out! Great suggestions!
Can’t believe I’ve neglected Netflix so far during Rona! I’ll have to see what I’m missing. Great ideas – thanks!
Wow, you haven’t watched Netflix so far?! That’s impressive!
Love it! So many great ways to stay sane and have a pretty decent time inside. Gotta find an exercise class.
Yes, have to find ways to stay sane. Being inside all the time is challenging.
I love all of these ideas so much! I love the one about hosting a game night! I love having those!!
Kileen
cute & little
So far, game nights have been a hit! A much-needed distraction right now.
Great tips on social distancing and still trying to have a social life. My house loves playing games, so I think we’ll try to have a virtual game night with family. Thanks for the ideas!
Enjoy game night! I find that it’s a great way to connect and it brings a lot of joy!
I didnt know about Netflix party! We will have to check it out tonight. I know my son would love to watch something with his grandparents!
Netflix Party is pretty cool…especially for people that like to chat during movies.
Love it! We are doing lots of zoom play dates 😭
Zoom play dates sound fun…and noisy🤣
These are some great suggestions. I’ve done a couple of them so far. I’ve been so busy, honestly, just trying to knock out a lot of work.
I get that! It’s easy to get consumed by work these days.
We’re finding it hard with 2 little ones! Virtual hangouts are the way to go!
Little ones need constant entertainment, so I’m sure this is a difficult time for them.
Zoom parties are definitely more fun and innovative than I thought! I’m going to try the game night idea soon!
Yes, game nights have been a lot of fun!! Such a great distraction!
Thanks so much for sharing these ideas! I had no idea there was a Netflix party option, that sounds awesome!
Netflix party is a lot of fun. You should definitely check it out!!