STAY CONNECTED WITH FRIENDS
Surrounding ourselves with family and friends is important for happiness and overall wellbeing. Studies even show that strengthening your relationships can help you live a longer life. But for those of us who live far away from loved ones, keeping in touch can feel challenging, if not downright impossible at times. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways you can hear, see, and speak to those near and dear to you, even when they’re not physically close.
From virtual happy hours to exploring outer space, here are a few ways to share fun and memorable experiences with family and friends around the world.
- Get together for virtual happy hour
- Host a virtual game night
- Binge-watch your favourite shows together
- Share recipes and cook together
- Phone a friend
- Host A Virtual Sunday Dinner or Family Party
- Arrange a coffee and cake get together or a lunch
Staying connected at work:
- Schedule a virtual coffee or lunch break with a colleague and chat about things other than work. Just as you would chat at the printer or in the kitchen while making a cup of tea, it’s important to schedule some time with your colleagues.
- There are lot of online platforms that you and your colleagues can try, from video conferencing to messaging tools, that can help you feel connected, no matter where you are.
- Set up a #FormalFriday where everyone wears a formal outfit for the day. When working from home, it can be tempting to work in your gym kit or pyjamas. A Formal Friday is a great excuse to pay attention to what we wear and can help to boost your wellbeing!
Staying connected with family:
- Why not try setting up a group chat on Messenger or WhatsApp? It could be a place for you to share positive stories and funny photos, away from the constant coronavirus news feed.
- You could go on a social distancing walk or picnic in the park if the weather is nice, making sure you keep at a safe distance from those around you.
- You could host a virtual movie night where you watch a film or TV show at the same time. It’s a way to feel like you’re there together and gives you something to talk about after.
- Many gym classes are now available online, allowing you to work out alongside other people or to watch the recording back and participate at a time that suits you. It really helps you to feel part of something, to push yourself further and to help you feel motivated.
- Have a go at a virtual pub quiz. It is a great way to get people together and to keep your brain active. You could even use it as a chance to fundraise for a charity you care about, with participants paying a small fee to enter.
- Send a postcard to someone important to you. It’s a lovely way to surprise them and show them that you’re thinking of them.
As great as technology is for bringing us together, it is possible to feel overconnected. That is why it’s important to remember to make your own boundaries and stick to them. Be mindful of how you’re feeling and make sure that you still have enough time to yourself to recover and rest. Listen to your body and schedule some time for self-care too. #LetsFoster #TeamBwD #HealthandWellbeing2021
