Novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is impacting our lives and communities significantly.  Restrictions are in place to reduce disease transmission, preserve our healthcare capacity and protect our vulnerable community members. Given our changing landscape, it’s easy to lose sight of the activities that can help us stay connected and improve our wellbeing. Health is more than the absence of disease!

Here are ideas to keep you active and connected.  Remember - we are all in this together!

1. Enjoy a meal and support your local restaurants by grabbing take-out and enjoying it at home or outside in a small group.  

2. Donate blood.  Blood supplies have hit emergency levels due to coronavirus concerns.

3. Get moving. Go for a hike or walk in your neighborhood. Ride your bike. Take a yoga class via YouTube or live stream one from your favorite studio. 

4. Learn a new skill or pick up a hobby. Online classes are available on edX or Skillshare and range from computer coding to needlepoint.

5. Meditate. The New York Times has a helpful guide on how to start.  Find a meditation app that you enjoy like InsightTimer or headspace.

6. Take turns reading a new book or an old favorite out loud. Check out the Whatcom County Library System’s digital collection. 

7. Connect with nature. Explore and share your observations from the natural world using the iNaturalist app.

8. Watch a movie or show with a couple of friends, as long as you are all healthy.

9. Video chat with friends and family.

10. Tour museums virtually!  12 museums around the world. 

Kids and families need our support during this time!  Here are ways to engage with the kids in your life, especially considering that family schedules have been altered by school closures and community changes.  

1. Create a plan for child care needs if you need to work outside the home. 

2. Try to keep a regular routine. Talk to your kids about the daily schedule. 

3. Manage family stress by taking time during the day to practice mindfulness such as breathing exercises, getting fresh air outside or practicing gentle yoga poses.

4. Get moving outside. Take a walk, ride your bike, or kick a ball around. 

5. Be active inside. Use a YouTube video to try something new inside like dance moves or jumping rope.

6. Learn a new skill with your kids or pick up an old hobby you haven’t done in awhile.

7. Read a book the whole family can enjoy and read aloud.

8. Do art! Paint, draw, collage. Take your project outside with sidewalk chalk. Art can help keep kids calm.

9. Write a letter to grandparents or other family who you may not be able to visit. 

10. Video chat with grandparents and older relatives to stay connected.