Need to Escape? 4 Activities That Are Socially Distant

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For many individuals and families, 2020 has been anything but conventional. The activities we normally engage in during the spring and summer months were likely canceled, delayed, or altered in some way because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Since we have to adhere to social distancing mandates and shelter-in-place orders, many of the festivals, water parks, and concerts we were looking forward to this summer were canceled or postponed.

Even though the coronavirus pandemic has brought about significant changes in the way we live, there are still several fun activities you can take advantage of this year. It's also a good idea to engage in activities you enjoy since this offers a healthy distraction from stress and problems and give you the mental strength to cope with the challenges of the pandemic.

Outdoor activities are the safest during this time. You can create plenty of space between you and other people and the open-air lowers the risk of COVID-19 exposure. The virus is spread through small respiratory particles that enter into the air when a person sneezes, speaks or coughs. You're more likely to inhale these particles indoors because you have to share more air with others in confined spaces. Indoor areas with poor ventilation cause the particles to remain in the air for a longer period of time, which raises the risk of infection.

If you're outdoors, fresh air is circulating constantly, which disperses the respiratory droplets. This means you're less likely to inhale large amounts of virus-containing respiratory particles. Being outdoors often can also offer a mental and emotional boost. When you take some time in the fresh air, you're likely to feel less depressed and angry, and you may feel less tension or stress.

Here are four activities that are enjoyable and socially distant.

Picnics

You can prepare the food for the picnic at home or order takeout from a nearby food truck or restaurant. Getting a meal or appetizers from an eatery you use to patronize often is also a great way to support businesses in your area during this difficult time. 

Gather your food items and place them in a basket or bin so you can bring your meal to your local park. You may also want to bring a blanket, a ball to play a few games of catch, and a small speaker so you can hear your playlist clearly while you're enjoying the outdoors.

Neighborhood Gathering

If your community has a block party or cookout every year, you can still plan an event, but you'll have to keep the rules of social distancing in mind. For instance, you have to remind your neighbors that hugging and handshakes are not permitted at the event. However, it can be beneficial for you to have conversations with neighbors who are close to your family. Laughing together and discussing your concerns can significantly lower your stress levels. Designate people from the same household who have tested negative for coronavirus to prepare food on the grill. Provide socially distant activities for the kids to enjoy, such as a sidewalk chalk drawing contest, potato sack races, or Frisbee. You can also offer small bottles of hand sanitizer and masks for your neighbors to make the event safer and make members of your community feel more comfortable at the gathering.

Drive-In Movies

Drive-in movies were popular decades ago, but now they're making a comeback. Driving to a location to see a movie on a projector screen is a safe way to enjoy a night out with family and friends while still practicing social distancing. 

You can also get out of your car and sit in front of or on top of your vehicle to get some fresh air while watching your favorite films. Don't forget to bring your own snacks and beverages with you to make the movie experience more enjoyable and avoid having to interact with restaurant staff.

Camping

Spending the night under the stars can help clear your mind and gain an appreciation for the great outdoors. Since you'll be outdoors for all or most of your camping trip, you have a lower risk of contracting coronavirus. Pitching your tent in the right location can make your camping trip especially memorable as well. For instance, if you're camping in Maine near the end of summer or into the fall, you'll see the stunning transformation of the leaves as they turn from green to goldenrod and red. While you're camping, you can take a nature hike, go fishing, and learn how to prepare delicious meals on the campfire.

As the coronavirus pandemic continues, it's important to be as safe as possible while enjoying socially distant activities. Make sure you wash your hands several times throughout the day and use hand sanitizer each time you touch an item. Wear a mask, especially if you'll be even remotely close to another person. Taking the right precautions during this time can make it easier for you to relax outdoors.