When it comes to the Coronavirus Pandemic (COVID-19), it’s safe to say that everything was turned upside down. Everything from the way we learn, work, interact, and celebrate with each other, even dininging changed. The words social distancing became theand new norm became, well, the new norm for lack of better terminology. With all the changes and new information coming at us almost daily, it can be hard to gain footing and remain positive, especially when our routines are off-kilter. According to Mental Health America, social support wards off the effects of stress, depression, anxiety, and a myriad of other health issues. Here are some creative ways to reduce stress while remaining socially in tune with your friends and family during COVID-19. 

Virtual coffee hour Grab a couple of your closest friends, your favorite drink, and choose a platform to meet virtually. Some of the most popular video platforms are FaceTime, Skype, Zoom, Google Hangouts and most recently House Party. Create a meeting time, send out invites to friends or loved ones, and get started having fun. This is a great way to decompress and see your friends and loved one’s faces while maintaining a social distance. 

Party without leaving your car If you have an SUV, a hatchback car, or even a beach chair, consider a picnic with your friends or family from a safe distance. You can park your vehicles in a circle with the back hatches open, order food or drinks from your favorite establishment and still see each other safely. Turn up the fun, with this list of the best apps to play games with your friends virtually. 

Host a virtual walk Exercise can be the best medicine when it comes to combating stress and depression. If you’re missing your group workouts at your favorite gym, consider hosting a virtual walk with your closest friends. Plan your route, start time, and go! Challenge each other with counting your steps, miles, or speed to make it more fun. Are your friends not into it? There’s even a weekly virtual group that walks every Wednesday at noon. Join and lace up your walking shoes & grab your smartphone. 

Make nutrition a priority The right foods can give you natural energy, boost your immune system, and make you feel great so eating healthy should be a priority. Try to minimize your trips to the grocery store and stock up on nutrition-packed foods that will stay fresh for a week or longer. Here is a list from the American Society for Nutrition. Consider a virtual cooking or meal planning group with your friends to stay on track. You never know, you could discover your new favorite dish. 

● Breads—corn tortillas, whole grain English muffins, bagels, breads, wraps, frozen whole wheat waffles 

● Grains—instant oatmeal, quick cooking pasta, frozen brown rice, couscous, refrigerated pizza crust 

● Fruits—sturdy fresh fruit (apples, citrus), dried, plain frozen, canned in juice or water 

● Vegetables—sturdy fresh veggies (celery, broccoli, onions, potatoes), plain frozen, low sodium canned, sun-dried 

● Sauces—tomato pasta sauce, salsa 

● Soups & Broths—canned, frozen, shelf-stable cartons 

● 100% Juice—refrigerated, frozen, canned, boxed 

● Milk—fresh, canned, shelf-stable packages 

● Eggs—fresh eggs, egg whites in cartons 

● Cheese—sliced, cubed, shredded, crumbled, grated hard cheese 

● Beans/Legumes—canned beans (black beans, chickpeas), dry beans 

● Nuts and seeds—bagged, canned, nut butters 

● Chicken—frozen or canned 

● Seafood—frozen ready-to-cook fish fillets, frozen shrimp, canned tuna, salmon, and sardines 

● Beef—pre-made frozen lean ground patties or meatballs 

● Flavorings—add zing with dried herbs & spices, vinegars, mustard, hot/steak sauces, lemon/lime juice, light dressings, honey, Greek yogurt 

EQ Heights is a social house and we know how the Coronavirus has impacted everyone. When you have decided the timing is right for you and yours to get a bit more of a personal connection, We serve great coffee, teas and sweet and savory treats in a welcoming atmosphere where people can connect with friends while maintaining social distance. We are currently at approximately 25% of our dine in capacity and we have a sanitizing station and are following CDC recommended safety protocols.  For those who appreciate the outdoors, even when it is bit steamy, our deck offers seating as well and we are open until 7pm to allow for a cooler option.  For the latest updates and changes, don’t forget to follow us on Facebook!