Missing interacting with friends and family? Here are 12 ways to socialize outdoors while social distancing.
Being outdoors and interacting with loved ones and special friends are important for your physical and mental health. These 12 ways to socialize outdoors while social distancing are intended to help you do both while reducing the risk of possible infection by maintaining social distancing.
Please note that these suggestions are for those who have been careful about isolating themselves and not knowingly exposed themselves to COVID-19. Masks are still a recommended component, unless drinking and eating. Using any of these ideas doesn’t guarantee safety. Only you can decide what you feel comfortable with doing.
1. Levels
Be on different levels when interacting. Keep your distance but close enough to carry on a conversation by being on different levels. Porch, deck, balcony, open window, even treehouse.
2. Each to Their Own Space
Designate and separate using screenhouses, umbrellas, or canopies, etc. Each party to their own and stay within its perimeter.
3. See-Through Door
Stay on either side of a glass or screen door. If screen, stay back at least three feet. If a glass door, perhaps open window nearby to hear better.
4. Low or Slatted Fencing
Make use of low or slatted fencing. Each person or group to have benches, chairs and tables on each side of the fence.
5. Parking Lot
Make use of an empty or sparsely used parking lot. Park so that there is a parking space in between the two cars.
6. Make Use of an Athletic Field
You may be able to make use of a public athletic field with a running track. Keep your distance by walking in the inner/outer lanes or perimeters.
7. Badminton or other yard games requiring spacing
Games like badminton include exercise when you socialize outdoors while social distancing. The net will provide a natural barrier for one on one badminton in the backyard. Wear gloves or wash and disinfect hands, rackets, and birdies before and after.
You can find fun ideas for outdoor games online.
8. Outdoor Yoga
Some yoga instructors have taken to providing outdoor Yoga classes in public parks. Again, this provides healthy activity when you socialize outdoors while social distancing.
9. Drive-In Movies
Drive-In movies are making a comeback. You may meet up with separate cars next to each other. Even without meeting friends and family, being outside with others sharing an experience is uplifting in these times.
10. Drive-In Church
If your place of worship offers it, go if you feel comfortable. Arrange to park near family and friends.
11. Go Fish.
Go fishing. Travel separately to the fishing spot. Space yourself close enough for casual conversation.
12. Coordinated Neighborhood Activity
Some neighborhoods have organized a regularly scheduled activity that engages neighbors while they keep their distance. Some have daily Pledge of Allegiance to the US flag with a patriotic song. Some have the musicians or singers entertain. Some have someone leading dancing, exercises, or Yoga while people are in their yards or on a quiet street.
For other tips and thoughts about making the most of having to stay at home, see these blog posts: 30+ Ideas for Having Outside Fun at Home: Staying Home Doesn’t Mean Staying In and The Plusses of Being Stuck at Home.
For more ideas about making staying home more productive and satisfying, see this ebook: Hacking Being Homebound.
What are some ways that you socialize while social distancing? Please share your tips in the comments area. Thanks!