Let's face it. The only people enjoying social distancing right now are introverts, and that's if they don't suddenly have a bunch of people returning home from school and work. Introverts (and I speak from experience) love to curl up with good books or watch their favorite movies -- alone. The rest of the world, not so much. That's where the importance of self-care comes into play. But self-care is not all facemasks and bubble baths. The great thing about it is that you can customize it to suit your social needs and interests. And it's not just for the ladies. The whole family, pets included, can get on the self-care train.
Right now, more than anything, it is important to maintain peace and calm amidst the chaos going on. So self-care becomes whatever helps you get there. Binging movies? Do it. Sleeping in? Do it. Taking walks? Do it. And don't forget to take a break from electronic devices and just spend time together. It may be the only way we'll survive this together. Enjoy the ideas below and feel free to show us your photos on our Facebook Page.
For the Social Butterfly who misses people.
1. Have a virtual Girls Night Out. Everyone gets dressed up, brings their favorite beverages, and dances it out. You can easily have a kid-friendly version earlier in the evening. Here is a list of video calling apps to help you decide which one is best for your needs.
2. Do you have younger children who miss their library storytimes and playdates? Check out @Fit4MomLittleRock on Instagram and Facebook. They have a free introductory class, free playdates, free storytimes and crafts, and a whole village of moms just like you to cheer you on. Here's the website.
3. Have a birthday coming up? Here's a great way for kids to connect virtually. Email activities along with the e-party invite in advance. Some ideas would be a virtual scavenger hunt where everyone searches for items at home, charades, Easter Egg hunt (search your house and share what you found), and you could even do a simple craft together like making play-dough.
4. See all those challenges on social media? Pick one to try like "Self-care Secrets" (show me your fav self-care treat, or a "Daily Photo" challenge encouraging people to share a glimpse of their daily routine.
For the Introvert with Social Butterfly family members.
1. Family scavenger hunt. You create the list, hide the items in different places, hand them a list, and curl up in the hammock with your book while they tear the house up for bragging rights. Once all is said and done, divide and conquer by assigning different kids to different areas that have been trashed and set a timer to see who gets the most done in a certain amount of time.
2. A variation on the basic scavenger hunt involves clues attached to objects which will lead them to the last and final object that's not on their list.
3. Spa Day Your Way - get everyone involved with face masks (younger kids or those with sensitive skin can use a moisturizing cream or lotion), manicures, take turns shampooing each other's hair, foot soaks, a bubble bath for your pets.
4. Plan a quiet date night after the kids go to bed. Stream a movie, concert, virtually visit a museum or exotic destination.
Stay tuned for more tips and fun activities for you and your family to keep boredom at bay as we do what's important and stay home for everyone's protection, including our own. Be sure to subscribe to our weekly newsletter here and while the event calendar is bare at the moment, it will be filled with upcoming online events to help entertain, educate, and exhaust your kids!
