The great thing about perspective is that it allows you to decide if situations are positive or negative. In the instance of social distancing and “stay home” orders, you have the choice to view this as positive or negative. Of course, we’re going to encourage you to view the positive side of this:

It’s actually something of a rare gift that we might not have gotten otherwise. We can get back time we typically spend commuting or shuffling kiddos around. We can talk to each other without worrying who needs to be where and when. It’s like a big pause button—an opportunity to slow down, practice self-care, and connect with your family.

We don’t mean “family” in just the traditional sense.

Family can mean anyone in your household, your closest long-distance friend, or perhaps a relative you’re finally able to align schedules with for a video chat. And of course, your pets are family too!

With all this in mind, here are some tips and information to support your family well-being during COVID-19, and beyond.

  • Gamify physical activity – Exercise or physical activity is crucial to maintain wellness, especially now. Make it fun by coming up with games or challenges that you can do as a family (inside or in your yard). No kiddos? Embrace the fun of games anyway. You’re more likely to repeat physical activities if they’re fun! And if you get some good belly laughs from all your silliness? Big added bonus!
  • Go virtual – See if your church, exercise class, book club, or social group can set up a Facebook Live, FaceTime or Zoom event. This is a great way to connect without having to be in person. Take this time at home to catch up with old friends over a cup of coffee or tea via technology.
  • Bust out a deck of cards – Get out a deck of cards and teach your kids to play a card game. There are endless options for all age groups: Go Fish, Rummy, Hearts, War, Canasta, etc. Want to level the playing field a little bit? Take this opportunity to learn a new game together.
  • Learn something new – There are great online resources and virtual education opportunities (for kids and adults!), many of them free or at a minimal cost. Take a drawing class, learn about animals at the zoos and aquariums, or learn a new language. Even better: Do it as a family!
  • Take some “me” time – There’s still the reality of “too much of a good thing,” and being together all the time can be difficult to adjust to. Take a half hour and go on a walk by yourself, zone out with a TV show, or have everyone go to their own space for some quiet time to journal or read.
  • Let yourself create – Your home doesn’t have to be sparkling clean before you let yourself sit down with a sketch pad, journal, or your piano. And even if you don’t think of yourself as “creative,” we all are. Try inventing a new recipe, making a collage, or rearrange the furniture.
  • Listen without multitasking – How often do you listen to music, an audiobook, a podcast, or even a friend on the phone, while simultaneously washing dishes or folding laundry? Being productive is great, but try giving your full attention to these audio experiences when you can. You, and your loved ones, will benefit.

Additional Resources

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