Quarantine and isolation dominated most of 2020 and 2021, but fortunately, times are getting better for us all, allowing us to move out of our homes with necessary precautions. As of 6th June 2021, according to data published by Our World in Data, 42.3% of the total population of the US is vaccinated. And 52% of the population has received the first dose of the available vaccines. These statistics have allowed people to return to work and embrace what they call “The new normal.”
Basic activities like driving a car or going out for dinner may feel unsafe or foreign, but abiding by the new safety norms can make getting back to an almost normal lifestyle acceptable. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – “Fully vaccinated people can resume activities without wearing a mask or physically distancing, except where required by federal, state, local, tribal, or territorial laws, rules, and regulations, including local business and workplace guidance.”
Let’s take a look at some ways you can get back to life after the COVID-19 pandemic:
- Recreational Activities
Going out for a walk, stroll, jog, run, or cycle ride while maintaining social distance is a great way to gradually get back to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to remain healthy and fit now more than ever; hence a routine workout session will do your body good.
Further, getting in some fresh air for a brief time span every day will make it easier for you to feel safer about stepping out. Interaction with multiple people may seem overwhelming at first, but spending a small amount of time outdoors every day will make the process easy.
- Short Vacation
We’re sure it’s been a while since you have taken a much-needed vacation. Staying cooped up within four walls is not made for everyone; thus, your mind and body need some fresh air and relaxing space. Celebrated vacation spots might not be your best option today since going to crowded locations is not advisable.
The rural part of the US, however, is currently an excellent spot for vacationers. These parts have expansive landscapes making it easy to maintain social distancing and boast clean air, offering your lungs some peaceful time. Some small towns to visit in the US are:
- Bar Habour
- Telluride
- Jackson Hole
- Lake Tahoe
These small towns offer activities like fishing, hiking, kayaking, and biking that can be executed efficiently while maintaining social distancing norms. These destinations are also easy to access from all parts of the country.
Since the tourism industry suffered a great deal, the prices for accommodation in these small towns have reduced to minimal rates, making these places affordable travel destinations. Traveling to these destinations also benefits the local communities staying in these rural areas, allowing the local businesses to boom.
- Small Gatherings
Meeting a few people and having small gatherings would be a fun start to social interaction. If you feel going to a restaurant makes you uncomfortable, then hosting a few people at home may cheer you up. Considering the lockdowns that the country has faced, rekindling bonds with our loved ones is necessary to get back to our routines. Virtual connections can now be strengthened in real life. An evening, afternoon or nighttime with some great company will do wonders for your mood.
- Grocery Shopping
Grocery stores are an exciting place to be. The idea of having to stock up throughout the pandemic forced us to invest in only the necessary items. The pleasure of shopping at your pace and buying things you need in small quantities can now be enjoyed once again.
- Self Grooming
Has your hair been a mess throughout the lockdown? Well, salons are now open, and a great haircut and a colorful mani-pedi are entirely worth it right now. You can now indulge in the much-anticipated grooming activities you have been looking forward to for eternity. Make sure you maintain the required safety norms while interacting with people and staff at salons and parlors.
- Fishing
The lakes and ponds provide enough space to maintain social distance and allow you to do a safe outdoor activity. For all our fishing lovers, you can finally get back to catching fresh fish. After all, no fish tastes better than your own catch. The fresh air and the calming vibe on a fishing trip are just what you need to slowly move out of your homes.
For further information on activities that are safest for vaccinated and unvaccinated people, check out the CDCs website.
We hope this article has motivated you to prepare yourself to step out and gradually adapt to the new normal. The initial stages may seem difficult and new, but taking each day at a time will be helpful.
