Social Distancing - It’s not ‘Human Distancing’

It’s time for humanity within us to shine

Like a number of other people, I dislike the term ‘Social Distancing’ and would much rather call it ‘Physical Distancing’. While this term essentially is about maintaining a safe distance from others to stop or slow down the transmission rate of the pandemic, some people unintentionally connect it with ‘social isolation’. This has sadly, in some cases, led to anxiety, depression and stigmatization of patients of Coronavirus.

We need to be careful, but there is no need to stigmatize or ostracize people if they contract the virus. They are already going through a lot.

Humans are by nature social animals, needing the human touch and connect in order to stay balanced and happy.

So while maintaining the distancing, what can we do to ensure that our circle of loved ones do not go through a feeling of isolation in these challenging times?

How can we reach out to our big human family and make sure nobody has to go through a feeling of exclusion?

By effectively using some of our human qualities, we can respond to this crisis in the best way possible:

Empathy

It is the ability to understand and share the feelings of each other, that makes us human! By putting empathy into practice in these tough times, not only will we benefit others but also ourselves, as we too would end up feeling more connected. There are simple ways to build empathy:

• Being Aware: These times present varied challenges. Some may have lost their jobs, some could be struggling with handling kids while some could be dealing with stress and anxiety. There might be people around us who need to be checked upon, be it an ailing neighbour or elderly citizens living all by themselves. We could help! We could provide assistance directly, or at least could connect them with an organisation that can. It all starts with ‘being aware’.
• Putting Ourselves in Other’s shoes: If we try to put ourselves in the shoes of the health-workers, doctors, or people who are getting stretched with added responsibilities; we would surely become more kind and considerate as human beings. We would search for ways to help and support, rather than crib and complain.
• Charity: Charity is putting our empathy into action. This is time to be a flag-bearer for humanity! We cannot even imagine how many people are struggling for food and daily supplies. By donating to the various charities and organisations which are carrying out relief-work for COVID, we could do our bit for humanity. We can be extra considerate towards our house-help or staff, and help in sustaining their families. We could also extend our compassion to animals and birds in need. Most of us have birds visiting us at our windows or balconies. Why not feed them something when they visit!

Connectedness

Research shows that being around positive people can improve our mood and reduce our stress levels. In good old days, humans stayed connected through handwritten letters and eventually evolved with the help of technology to other advanced ways. Well, how about reviving it now. Wouldn’t it be great to pen a heartfelt letter to friends? We can encourage kids as well, to pen letters for teachers, friends or grandparents.

While COVID has made it difficult for many to be physically present around loved ones, nothing stops us from keeping a vibrant connect alive! We are blessed with ample technology and this is the perfect time to put it to use.

• Nothing beats making a call to a friend or relative and chatting up! That can be so therapeutic sometimes. Apart from the conventional voice calls, technology has also enabled video calls which create a more personalized experience. Needless to mention there are great apps like ‘Zoom’, ‘Skype’ and ‘Google Hangouts’. We should encourage the sharing of emotions and worries within our circle of loved ones.
• There are a host of interesting apps today, most of them free, even for hosting parties or events. ‘Netflix Parties’, available for free through the Chrome browser, is a fun way to watch Netflix shows and movies with friends. ‘Houseparty’ is an increasingly popular video group-chatting app for smartphones, where it is possible to play interactive games too. Who said you cannot party-from-home!

Sharing Good Vibes

The world is already going through enough stress and worries, so there is a pressing need for people who can balance out the negativity by radiating good vibes. We could be that person.

• By practicing meditation or any other relaxation techniques, we can effectively release stress and toxins from our system and that helps us stay positive. The next step then is to share our positive vibes with the world. By sitting for a few minutes in silence, we can visualize that our positive energy is radiating everywhere and reaching all those who are suffering.
• Healers all over the world are a blessing and healing the Earth. We do not need to be certified healing practitioners to do the same. Energy follows intention! By keeping an intention in our heart to bless people with healing and good health, even if for five minutes each day, we can be assured that our energy will bring about a positive outcome.
• While stepping out if we need to, we can make it a point to greet people with a nod or a cheerful ‘Hello’, even while wearing a mask. Sometimes, one gesture on our part is enough to bring a smile on someone’s lips or to make someone’s day. If we greet someone with smiling eyes, even if our face is hidden, we can still establish a human connect and show that we care!

In small, yet effective ways, we can be a source of light and cheer amidst all the darkness. Let’s not lose our human touch, but instead, let’s work towards strengthening and nourishing it!

All crisis in the past have presented human beings with an opportunity to come out as a better, more united race and this one is no different!

It’s time for us to open up our hearts and let the humanity inside of us shine!

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Originally published at http://the-wellness-cafe.com on August 9, 2020.