Socialising safely – some ideas
A great many things about our university lives this year are different from what we had expected or to what we were used to, including our social lives. The ever-changing restrictions in place to fight the Coronavirus pandemic make it very difficult to partake in the activities we all had hoped to. Nonetheless, I think it is important to remember two things: 1. Different does not equal worse and 2. Socialising is important for us, so we have to be adaptable and find other ways to see each other safely. So here are some ideas of fun things to do with each other, whether that is in your new flat on campus, with your housemates, or with other friends.
Outdoor workout – Although it is definitely getting colder, why not use the sunnier days for a group outdoor workout? The Jephson Gardens in Leamington is a perfect place for one and there are endless green spaces on campus that will do the trick too! Spread out and don’t worry about equipment or mats, your body weight will do just fine to get a good workout in. Personally, if I need inspiration for exercises or circuit ideas, I head to Youtube, and more precisely, to Sarah’s Day’s channel – she’s awesome!
Pizza night with games – Cooking together is a great way to informally get to know each other in your new flat or to casually catch up with friends. I like making pizza because it involves and occupies everyone and is doable even for those who don’t cook much. After eating, play some card or board games. My personal favs are Jungle Speed, Articulate, and President (card game). Don’t forget to play some good music!
Movie night – Either watching a movie at your own place with a few friends (popcorn required, naturally) or going to the cinema in a small group can be great fun! Warwick Student Cinema show some popular films at an affordable price and is right on campus.
Quiz night – Is your favorite pub quiz not running? Organize your own! The internet is a wonderful place so I am sure you can find what you need easily on there. Although it may seem weird, why not try making your group bigger by having another dial in on Google Meet? Remember that it’s about adapting to what is and will continue to remain our reality for the foreseeable future!
Join Online Events – I know online socials and events are not quite the same as in-person ones but I also know that societies and clubs as well as your individual departments have made huge efforts to organize fun and engaging alternatives. Give them a try, don’t rule them out just because they may sound less fun and the real thing. It’s the only alternative we have so might as well engage with it as positively as possible!
Overall, remember to respect each other. Wear a face mask in public and keep your distance. It’s really not that difficult. Disinfect your hands often and make sure you get enough sleep.
Finally, then, remember to speak to others about how you’re feeling about the whole situation this year regularly. The COVID pandemic is affecting all of us in both similar and different ways. Talking about your frustrations, disappointments, and anxiety really does help. But, remember to talk about the good things too – they are there, you just need to choose to focus on them.
As always, let me know if you have any questions or if there is something specific you would like me to blog about. Until next time!
