Coronavirus Pandemic: 7 Social Distancing-Friendly Activities To Take Up Right Now


4 Mins Read

Most of us are now practicing social distancing as a measure to slow down the spread of the current coronavirus pandemic. At the time of writing, Covid-19 has already infected almost 250,000 globally, and the death toll now has passed 10,000. Unlike self-quarantine, social distancing does not necessarily mean spending alone time in the confines of your home 24/7, and there are still activities you can do as long as you remain far from crowds and gatherings. Below, some ideas on what you can do while you practice social distancing during the pandemic. 

1. Hiking

Source: Pexels

Go to the hills! Pick your favourite trail and go on a scenic hike to breathe in some much-needed fresh air and enjoy nature. Especially recommended for those getting a bout of cabin fever – guaranteed you’ll feel better after an outdoor walk! Just make sure you keep your distance with others, avoid large crowds, and to pick up all your litter (including disposable masks!). 

2. Birdwatching 

Birdwatching or birding refers to observing birds, and can be easily done out in nature with your bare eyes or with binoculars. Listen to the bird sounds and songs, and see if you can differentiate between the chirps of different species! You’ll be surprised – it makes for a rather fun activity. 

3. Take a virtual museum tour 

Source: Vatican Musuems

You don’t need to travel much to visit some of the greatest collections in the world in museums located in another city. Quite frankly, you should refrain from any non-essential travel as a part of social distancing and preventing the spread of the virus. Because of this, a number of museums are now offering virtual tours online, including the Louvre in Paris, the Vatican Museums’ 360-degree online tour of the Sistine Chapel and Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza in Madrid, which has on virtual display the Rembrant and Portraiture exhibit

4. Cooking 

Cook up a storm at home! Grab your grocery list and make a note of all the ingredients you’ll need to make a delicious meal in the comfort of your own kitchen. Now’s the time to challenge yourself to make that dish you’ve always wanted to. Blast your favourite tunes while you’re at it. 

5. Do some arts and crafts 

Source: Unsplash

The list is endless when it comes to the creative activities you can do at home, on your balcony, in a quiet café or even in a park, as long as you’re away from crowds. Needlework, for instance, is easy to throw in a bag and bring outdoors with you (embroidery, knitting, sewing, cross-stitching). You can even bring out a sketchbook and pencils, paint and your full art kit to make it a whole afternoon activity. 

6. Secluded running 

Go somewhere spacious with fewer people around, and go on a run. Make a playlist before you go and listen to it while you break a sweat and get your heart rate up. 

7. Order takeout 

Source: Deliveroo

Not feeling like cooking? Or perhaps you’re ravenously hungry after your secluded run and want to indulge a little. You can now order takeaway and choose the contact-free option to ensure you are social distancing from the delivery person. Deliveroo, for example, is now offering customers a “contact-free delivery” option upon checkout if you are paying by card. Your rider will leave your food at the door rather than handing it over to you. 

Read Green Queen’s earlier coverage of Covid-19 and tips on prevention here.


Lead image courtesy of Vector Images / Kind PNG / Green Queen Media.

Author

  • Sally Ho

    Sally Ho is Green Queen's former resident writer and lead reporter. Passionate about the environment, social issues and health, she is always looking into the latest climate stories in Hong Kong and beyond. A long-time vegan, she also hopes to promote healthy and plant-based lifestyle choices in Asia. Sally has a background in Politics and International Relations from her studies at the London School of Economics and Political Science.


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