The New Term We All Now Know
We should all be aware by now that we should be practicing “social distancing” in the United States to help slow the spread of the coronavirus COVID-19. But what does that term mean? What are some things to do while we are social distancing?
Self-Quarantine v. Social Distancing
First, social distancing is different from self-quarantine. If a person has been exposed or potentially has been exposed to someone with the virus, he or she should stay away from others for 14 days, which is the approximate incubation period of the virus. During that time of self-quarantine, one should check their temperature and watch for other signs of illness, including cough, body aches, or shortness of breath. If one develops symptoms, it is recommended that they call their primary care physician for advice on the next steps. If symptoms are considered mild, home care and isolation will likely be advised. If symptoms such as very high fever or difficulty breathing occur, one will be directed to the appropriate facility for treatment. It is essential to follow this protocol since many health care facilities are expected to be overcrowded as the virus runs its course through the population.
For individuals who have no known or suspected contact with an infected person, the recommendations are a little different. It is advised that all Americans practice social distancing, which is maintaining space between yourself and others. The recommended distance is six feet.
Now that Sacramento schools have shut down, many businesses are closed, and lots of us are working from home, the social distancing/self-quarantine status is being felt by all of us. Sporting events have been canceled, and even Disneyland is closed. We do not have much of an idea as to when this unique period of isolation will end, so we thought we would offer some ideas to keep yourself occupied and entertained while at the same time helping to slow the spread of COVID19 throughout our community.
Things to Do While Social Distancing
- Puzzles – the bigger, the better. Tackle a 1000 piece.
- Movie marathon – watch (or rewatch) the Harry Potter or Lord of the Rings series.
- Study a foreign language via the free app Duolingo.
- Read The Stand (it may make you feel better since Covid-19 does not appear to be anywhere near as bad as Captain Tripps).
- Have a home spa day, use some of those face masks you got in your Christmas stocking, paint your nails, deep condition your hair.
- Enjoy eating in. Try new recipes, make a charcuterie board. Light some candles and pour the wine.
- Bring back the art of letter writing and send correspondence in the mail to family and friends.
- Play board games and card games.
- Tackle home organization projects you have been putting off.
- Bake cookies.
- Watch the movies that were nominated for Academy Awards.
- Keep in touch with friends you don’t see as much via Facetime and Skype – seeing their faces will bridge the gap better than texting.
- Go for a solo run through your neighborhood, if you live in an area that isn’t densely populated.
- Find a hiking trail and take your dog out for a long nature walk.
- Relax with a mandala or nature-themed coloring book.
- Make a fort in the living room and watch a scary movie. Or binge-watch Steven King’s The Outsider.
- Clean up the photos on your phone. Transfer them to Google Photo. Order actual prints of the best shots for framing.
- Meditate on the things for which you are grateful.
- Binge-watch seasons of “The Great British Baking Show.” Replicate a cooking challenge with ingredients you have on hand.
- Take care of your plants. Move them into the sunlight. Re-pot if necessary.
- Do gardening tasks in your yard.
- Do not look at your 401k for the time being.
- Catch up on sleep. Napping helps your immune system.
- Check-in on your neighbors – even if by text or phone.
- Remember, we are all in this together and that this too shall pass.
Watch YouTube Video: For some comic relief, watch Ellen’s video below on tips to pass the time.
Natomas Personal Injury Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Natomas personal injury attorney. Have you been injured as a result of another driver’s negligence? If so, do not hesitate to call my office for free, friendly advice. My phone numbers are (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400 if outside of the local area.
My firm is dedicated to offering quality legal services to injured Natomas residents and has been for over 38 years. Please take a look at our website and review our trial verdicts and case settlements. You may also see what our past clients say about our services by following these links:
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