Mindful Social Distancing

How do we hold ourselves together when the world appears to be coming apart at the seams? How can we help others if we can't even leave our homes? Actually, the biggest way we can help others right now is by doing just that: not leaving our homes. And while staying home, perhaps we can slow down and practice mindfulness. Perhaps we can take the time to do things we didn't have time to do before. But in our lack of movement, let's not become passive.

While we're stuck at home, businesses are closing their doors and losing money - and while the big corporations will survive (some, like Amazon, will even thrive), the small, local businesses may not have the resources to come back from this. When you spend money in the coming weeks, think not only about what you purchase, but where.

Food

When shopping for groceries, visit small, locally-owned grocery stores, farm stands, and farmers markets. Not only will you be supporting local businesses, but these places are often less crowded than the big chain stores, making it easier to stay at least six feet away from other shoppers. Remember that grocery stores are considered essential businesses and thus will not be closed - buy only what you need for a week or two, so that others may purchase what they need as well.

If restaurants have not yet closed in your area, order delivery or takeout from a local restaurant rather than a chain. This is also an excellent time (if you are financially able) to buy gift cards from local businesses, whether to give as gifts or to use yourself once the businesses reopen. Those who are celebrating birthdays or anniversaries during this time of social distancing may appreciate receiving one in the mail!

Entertainment

Before you sign up for streaming services, think creatively about where else you could put that  money. Many libraries offer free digital services, including ebooks, audiobooks, online classes, and sometimes even movies. Consider donating some of the money you save by using these free services back to the library.

If you prefer to purchase hard copies of books, check to see if your favorite local bookshop has an online store, or order from Powell's Books. Another way to support a local bookshop is through Libro.fm, an audiobook company that offers both individual audiobooks and monthly memberships. The money you spend there will go to a bookstore of your choice!

Of course, with the weather warming up, you can also go outside. When choosing a hiking or biking trail, look for lesser-known, off-the-beaten-path options. If you see a lot of cars in the parking area when you arrive, move on to a different trail. Several national parks have had to close part or all of their parks due to overcrowding. Those that remain open aren't charging entrance fees, so if you visit one, consider donating the entrance fee via their website to help keep the park running.

Staying Connected

You may not be able to hang out with friends or visit family, but there are many ways to stay in touch. When the cabin fever sets in, pick up your phone and call someone, write an email or good old-fashioned letter (this is also a great option for kids!), or arrange for your book club or small group to meet via video chat. Contact your pastor or look through your church directory for church members who might appreciate a phone call or letter.

Above all, remember that a pandemic, by definition, affects many people: this isn't about you or me, but us.