Individuals and families around the world have found innovative ways to stay connected during the age of physical distancing. Despite the fact that society is gradually reopening after almost four and a half months of quarantine, keeping a safe distance is still essential. That means that we’ll continue to use new forms of communication that characterized the pandemic lockdown.
Singing on balconies in Italy and curbside concerts in Calgary are but two examples of innovative connection. By adapting classic methods of preserving mental wellness – art, music, and play – access to culture and entertainment continues.
Features such as One World: Together at Home concert and Montreal’s balcony concerts showcase music’s ability to connect humanity, even from a distance. Many concerts changed platforms to offer live-streamed events, and individual performers offer music on various social media platforms.
Sports fans have found another approach to stemming boredom and staying connected. A case in point is the online COVID League, a fantasy baseball sports league that enables people to celebrate athleticism during isolation.
Technology simplifies communication from a distance, with video chat available on multiple platforms. Used to promote such group activities as trivia nights and book clubs, online video chats are allowing people to stay connected while they foster their interests.
Another, more analogue way of staying connected is rainbow art, visible in windows throughout Montreal. It promotes a sense of community by expanding people’s outreach to passersby.
Socializing has a positive impact on mental and physical health. By using both technological and traditional approaches, people are maintaining a sense of community and fulfillment while observing physical distancing. •
