#AloneTogether

Kim Domingo
April 04, 2020 \ local life

A few weeks ago, our lives were turned topsy turvy and we were told to stay home and practice Physical Distancing (formally  known as Social Distancing). That means, for now, no more coffee dates, no more trips to the malls, or gym time. For some, this might sound like an extended stay-cation, but let's face it, staying indoors day in and day out can get old real quick!

Here are some ideas to help us battle cabin fever:

1. Be a good neighbour.

Image from iOS (5).jpgFor some people this is an especially difficult time riddled with stress, anxiety, uncertainty, and even loneliness. Fortunately, we live in a day and age where technology has allowed us to keep in touch regardless of physical distance. While, for the time being, we can't physically be with most of the people we care about, that doesn't mean we have to be fully isolated. Remember to pick up the phone and check in on one another. A few really fun ways to still get together include:

"Host" a virtual dinner party with your friends and family. Whip up something homemade (or order delivery from your favourite restaurant), get dressed, and get on your favourite video conferencing app with your favourite people. 

Check if your fave restraurants offer delivery: Skip The Dishes ; UberEATS ; DoorDash

These are some of our favourite video conferencing apps: FaceTime ; Zoom ; Houseparty

Netflix and Chill.  Grab the popcorn, hop on the couch, and settle in for a movie marathon with your buddies from across town! Download the Netflix Party Extension and you and your friends can watch together, all the while practicing physical distancing. 

 

 

 

 

2. Learn

K-12 classes have now moved online. So, while the kids are doing their schoolwork, why not join them with the learning? Whether it's updating yourself with what's new in your industry, or learning a new language, now's a good a time as any ti sign up for an online class. 

 

3. Read a good book.

Dust off all those books you've been "meaning to read but never have time for". Discover or re-discover some literary favourites.

Here are some of our team's favourite books, if you're looking for your next read:

File.jpgThe Harry Potter Series by JK Rowling

Chronicles of Narnia by CS Lewis

G'Morning, G'Nyt by Lin-Manuel Miranda

Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink

The Emigrant Edge by Brian Buffini

Did you know: Your local library has thousands of ebooks and audiobooks that you can borrow instantly and for free? All you need is your local library card and download the Libby App.

No Library Card? No worries! You can get a library card ONLINE from your local library:

Click here for Langley & Abbotsford Libraries (Fraser Valley Regional Library)

Click here for Surrey Library

 

4. Keep moving.

While it can be very tempting to lie in bed all day, it’s important to keep up with your physical health and keep moving. Download a fitness app or follow along fitness videos from YouTube. You don’t even have to do it alone! Set up a time with your gym buddies to get on FaceTime and do your routine together!

 

5. Channel your inner Masterchef

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Ever wonder what it feels like to be a contestant in Masterchef or Chopped? See what culinary masterpiece you can come up with using just the ingredients you have on hand!

Check out this article by Huffpost filled with recipes that you can make with just your pantry staples. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6. Be a Caremonger.

COVID-19 had definitely turned our world upside down, but we are very grateful for all the hardwork that members of our community are doing to protect and care for each other. For those of you out there looking for something to do in a positive way, here are a few resources:

  • Support For Senior Citizens | BC211

Visit www.bc211.ca, or call or text 211, for a comprehensive list of community and social services, if you are a senior in need, or would like to volunteer with a senior in your community to check in on them or to help pick-up groceries/prescriptions.

 The helpline will take calls 7 days/week to help keep seniors safe in their homes.

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  • Canada Caremongering United

This group of individuals are volunteering their time, services and resources to support those in the communities that are most vulnerable. If you’re able to help deliver food and supplies to those in need or if you or anyone you know can donate some supplies, it would be really appreciated! Every little bit helps! If you would like to see how you can help out, give us a shout or check out the Facebook group.

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These are just some ideas to fill your time and keep social while social distancing. 

We want to hear from you! What other things have you done to stay connected, entertained and productive during this time?