With the rapid spread of the coronavirus, precautionary measures must be taken in order to contain the virus and protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our communities. It is vital that we each do our part in keeping our community safe. Even if there is a low chance that you will become gravely ill with the virus, you may very well spread it to someone at higher risk; it is important to think not only of yourself, but of others in this time of uncertainty and confusion.
So what can we do to help? Two words: Social Distancing.
Put simply, social distancing means avoiding large crowds, gatherings, and environments where you are in close contact (generally within 6 feet) with other people in order to prevent potential infection or spread of the coronavirus. This means skipping the bar, restaurants, parties, travel, etc., and working from home when possible. In fact, our team at Hopeloft has shifted to online work from home in order to minimize risk and continue to inspire change in ways that are safe and most beneficial to our community (read more about how our staff is working remotely here!).
But don’t worry—there are plenty of productive and fun activities to enjoy while practicing social distancing. Here are just a few to get you started:
Be a Book Worm
This is the perfect time to snuggle up and dive into that mystery or collection of poetry that has been calling your name!
Netflix and Chill
Binge that series you’ve been itching to start—you have plenty of time now!
I Be Up In [My House] Working On My Fitness
Avoiding the gym does not mean avoiding your work-outs! Go for a run around your block, practice a sport in your backyard, or do a circuit inside your house. There are thousands of free workouts available on YouTube!
Educate Yourself
This is the perfect time to pick up a new hobby, get back into one that you have been neglecting, or do some research and feed your mind. Pick up an instrument; practice a new language; sew a quilt or knit a scarf; read a book on black liberation, feminism, or the gay rights movement; paint a picture; research the presidential candidates; try out a new recipe; watch a documentary on social justice issues; play some chess or Sudoku; write a poem; or anything else you can think of!
Strike a Pose
Learn a new dance and go viral on TikTok!
Is It Worth It? Let Me Work It
Grab a snack, close your door, and start crossing off items on your to-do list—but in the comfort of your PJs! What more could you ask for?
So fresh and so clean, clean
During this time, keeping clean is imperative. Not only is it important to practice good hygiene (wash your hands, use hand sanitizer, cover your cough, etc.) especially now (and always), but it is important to keep our spaces clean as well. Take this extra time to tidy up your house, disinfect, and reorganize. A clean home is both safe and relaxing!
Game Night
Break out an old board game with the family, start a jigsaw puzzle or race around Bowser’s Castle in Mario Kart! It's the perfect excuse to bring the whole family together.
Hotline Bling
Who said social distancing meant erasing your social life? Facetime, Skype, or video call your loved ones to catch up and have a virtual kick back!
Breathe, Breathe In The Air
Relax and re-center yourself. Meditate, do some yoga, stretch, and practice deep breathing techniques to de-stress, focus, and reinvigorate yourself. Peace Love Yoga in Vineland is now offering online classes to encourage social distancing during this time, check out their Facebook to book an online session!
Do Your Hair Toss & Check Your Nails
Live your best life while social distancing and treat yourself to a home mani-pedi, facemask, and bubble bath! Try on some cute outfits, try a new makeup tutorial, and take a bomb selfie for the 'gram!
Looking for more resources and answers to some big questions during this time? You can now access lists of continually updated resources right from our top navigation bar under "COVID-19 Resources".