People everywhere have been trying to adjust to life at home – completing every puzzle in the closet and only leaving for essential needs. So the fact that restrictions are beginning to lift across the country might have you feeling like a kid who’s excited to get outside and play.
But before you bolt out the door like it’s still 2019, there are some crucial things you should be keeping in mind.
Don’t be careless about social gatherings.
The first thing you might want to do is meet up with a bunch of friends for drinks, or finally host that brunch you’d planned for Easter. Sure it sounds fantastic to socialize. However, being in close contact with large groups of people still puts you at a heightened risk. Use your own good judgment.
Your excellent handwashing habit shouldn’t come to an end.
Washing your hands isn’t a new concept when it comes to good hygiene. Yet, people have been doing it more thoroughly and frequently over the last months. Even though things are opening back up doesn’t mean that this is a habit you should quit.
On top of washing your hands when you normally would (ex: like before eating or after using the restroom), the CDC also recommends doing it after being in a public place and touching surfaces others have touched. Some examples are gas pumps, shopping carts, door handles, tables, debit card keypads, etc.
Don’t simply “run to the gym” without some thought.
A lot of people have been aching for normalcy, including getting back to the gym. But as we know, gyms are full of germs and places where patrons sweat and breathe heavily in an enclosed area.
If you choose to get back to your gym workout – in the least, handwashing, disinfecting, sanitizing, and spacing out will be important. Perhaps call your local gym to find out if they’ve put new policies into place. It’s ultimately up to you how you want to exercise, just try and do so safely.
Facemasks shouldn’t be left at home just yet.
With lockdown restrictions being lifted, some may feel they want to ditch their mask too. However, it’s still a great tool for helping not spread germs.
Continuing to be cautious while out in public places like grocery stores is a good idea – and also ones that are more “non-essential.” So, consider keeping that mask as part of your wardrobe.
Don’t let the days of summer keep you from being safe.
Summer’s coming up, and with things opening again – you might find yourself dreaming of neighborhood barbeques, crowded beaches, and travel. While these would have been typical activities for the hot months, it’s a year where they should be more thought out.
In no way does it mean summer can’t still be fun. Just maybe bring along your springtime creativity and cautious thinking.
You shouldn’t stop taking precautions with those who are at high-risk.
One thing that’s been most difficult with the lockdown is being separated from loved ones that don’t live under our roofs. Even though we’ll have the ability to get out more – it doesn’t change the fact there are people at a higher risk of infection.
As CNET suggests, “keeping a healthy distance may still be the best way to keep them safe.” The website also points out that it’s something you’ll need to evaluate with your family.
Don’t put a halt on those family activities or being creative.
Most would agree that spending tons of time with our families has been incredible. Not only that, but people have also been doing things they perhaps normally wouldn’t have considered – like dancing in their living rooms, going on bike rides, and turning driveways into art masterpieces. Just because we’re gaining more freedom doesn’t mean we can’t still enjoy those things too.
Though life might not return immediately back to normal, these tips can help us stay cautiously optimistic as we look forward to that day!
Please SHARE this with your friends and family.
