Meaningful and consistent human interaction is important! In fact, scientists have found that lack of social connection can actually manifest higher instances of both stress and illness (Forbes, 2020). Nurturing casual relationships, like those with your neighbors, is a great way to take part in your community, create shared experiences and improve wellbeing.
Neighborly interactions, however, have been complicated by the COVID-19 pandemic. While regular block parties may be off the table, you can still make meaningful connections with those around you. Try these five neighborly tips to safely socialize, entertain and connect.
Start small
When in doubt, return to the classics! There’s nothing like a friendly wave from your front porch, or a warm (masked) greeting in passing, no matter how brief. Not only could you quickly and easily brighten someone’s day, nurturing casual, neighborly relationships can help you live a longer and happier life (Reader’s Digest, 2020)! Whether you’ve just moved in or are welcoming someone to the neighborhood, sometimes the smallest actions make the biggest impact.
Invite them “in”
If you’ve got new neighbors, help them get the lay of the land. It can be tough moving to a brand new neighborhood, particularly if you can’t try out the local restaurants, spend time with neighbors or otherwise explore. Invite new residents to the local Facebook group or Nextdoor page, or send them a map with your favorite local joints highlighted, along with a promise to go together in the future.
Connect online
Video calling has exploded during the COVID-19 pandemic (Wall Street Journal, 2020), but you can do a lot more than just chat. “Attend” a virtual event as a group, cook dinner together, start a book club or work out! Find new ways to make a virtual connection and nurture those neighborly relationships.
Write it out
Written word also holds a lot of weight! Send a quick text or email to let existing neighbors know you’re thinking of them, or drop a letter on the newcomer’s doorstep. You could even include a homeowner essential – consider a measuring tape or flashlight. If this is your first interaction, remember to indicate which house you live in.
Give an “egift”
Providing new neighbors with a welcome gift is a classic! If you don’t feel comfortable dropping off a plate of cookies or packaging a gift basket, give your neighbors some virtual goodies. From wine delivery to a good old fashioned ecard, there’s sure to be something for everyone in the neighborhood (Marie Claire, 2020).
Neighborhoods are important social hubs, and our relationships with those around us can help promote wellbeing. Some creativity may be needed, but there are plenty of ways to safely connect with neighbors, even during the COVID-19 pandemic. From a quick greeting to a virtual night in, focus on cultivating community from a distance!
Published on February 1, 2021
