Covid-Friendly Activities to Keep Moving and Socially Engaged

The global pandemic has certainly impacted on a lot of the things we all like to do – get out and about, exercise, play sport and socialise. But there are still plenty of ways to enjoy ourselves, without having to worry about our health or safety – because it’s important to remain active to get the most out of our twilight years. 

So whether you like your activities action-packed, or prefer a slower pace, here’s a few ideas to keep you moving and engaged with friends and family. 

Fresh air is always a good idea

There’s no doubt everyone feels a bit nervous about leaving their homes at the moment, but if you’re able to find somewhere to grab a bit of fresh air – away from the crowds – you’ll definitely feel all the better for it. 

With summer here, we are so lucky that it is a lovely time of the year to enjoy nature on our doorstep. You could find out about local walks in your area, and work your way through them each week. If you’re not sure about their suitability, check with the local council who maintains them and they can let you know what kind of fitness level you need to have.  

Learn a new skill online

Picking up a new hobby is a great way to engage your brain and keep you occupied (helpful if you’re missing out on activities you usually enjoy). They don’t have to be difficult – it could be as simple as practicing yoga, or challenging yourself to do one crossword a day. 

See, the great thing is that the internet puts everything at our fingertips. All you need to do is go into Youtube.com and type in what you want to learn – and there will be all kinds of people ready to teach you a new skill. From the basics of painting, to knitting, cooking, making homemade soap, scrapbooking and jewellery making – you will be able to find anything your heart desires!  

Walk (or run) a virtual event 

With a lot of big events being cancelled or postponed at the moment, the calendar may seem a little empty. But some have been adapted so you can actually still participate, just virtually (remotely) in your own town! 

Run NZ Run has a range of virtual runs/walks that are held throughout the year and give you something to ‘aim for’, and for many of them you still get a participation medal. It really is a great way to stay motivated when it comes to getting regular exercise, and the thrill of being a part of a real event. The Virtual Events Club is another organisation holding regular virtual events for walking, running, swimming and biking. 

To make it extra special, you could also do it for a charity of your choice, like the Heart Foundation or The New Zealand Breast Cancer Foundation. 

Organise a neighbourhood street meet

If you’re eager to socialise but aren’t ready to entertain at home, it really is the perfect time of the year to have a good old fashioned street gathering! Get everyone to BYO chairs, a drink of choice and some nibbles, and you can all set yourselves up in a shared driveway, a nearby reserve or if your street is quiet enough – on the footpath. Once it is all done and dusted, you’ll probably wonder why you haven’t done it sooner, and everyone will be ready to book the next one in. 

Oh, and don’t forget to bring a radio – music brings fun to every occasion.  

Book in dinner with a distant friend or family member

Almost every phone or computer these days has ‘video calling’ and if you’re not sure how to use yours, there will always be someone to help – from the local appliance retailer, to a patient family member, or the staff at your retirement village.

And once you’ve set that up, you’re all ready to have a dinner date with a friend or family member that doesn’t live nearby (or who can’t visit at the moment). Arrange the time to eat, set your phone or computer up on something so you don’t have to hold it (a recipe book holder is often ideal) and get chatting. 

You could also have a little bit of fun by adding fancy dress to the occasion, or deciding on a specific cuisine you will both enjoy. It really is a special way of keeping in touch and the next best thing to being there in person.    

At the end of the day, Covid doesn’t have to stop you from doing the activities you enjoy and seeing the people you love. There are many things that are out of our control right now, but try focusing on all the things you can control – your mind and body will thank you for it.