Why and How to Stay Sensory Connected During the Pandemic
Has it been a long time since you last hugged a parent?
How about enjoying happy hour with friends?
Or playdates for the kids at the playground?
COVID-19 has put a halt on how we typically stay connected to others and it doesn’t seem to be going away anytime soon. However, it doesn’t have to stop us from keeping our senses engaged for a healthy mind and body.
The PWCB’s naturopathic doctor, Meghan Van Vleet, answers common questions on how to navigate connection when we are physically isolated.
I miss my family and friends. We have Zoom meetings and use FaceTime, but for some reason it is not fulfilling me. Why is that?
Dr. Meghan: While technology is playing a crucial part in staying in touch with others right now, it doesn’t make up for the lack of face to face interaction.
In person eye contact and touch are both sensory-rich experiences that are vital for optimal health and, unfortunately, aren’t able to be provided through Zoom, FaceTime, and social media.
Right now, the lack of these are beginning to result in what some researchers are calling “Pandemic Fatigue.” This term refers to many things resulting from the lack of social interaction, and one of them being lack of empathy - particularly important in getting through this time together in a healthy and mindful way.
How can I keep my (and my family’s) senses engaged right now?
Dr. Meghan: There are actually plenty of things you can do!
Some of my favorite sensory-engaging activities are:
Creating bedtime routines that include comforting and safe touch (such as massaging kids’ legs and arms, caressing their hair, or lightly scratching their backs).
Checking in with the family throughout the day (especially at meal times) with good eye-contact.
Setting aside at least one evening per week to sit side by side with my spouse and have uninterrupted conversation.
Giving hugs to everyone in the household. A lot.
Letting the kids wrestle (gently!) for fun physical touch.
Cuddling! Over a movie, before bedtime, during a break throughout the day - just as much as possible!
My parent lives alone and I’m worried about him/her. How can someone that is by themself stay sensory connected?
Dr. Meghan: This is a great question and one that I deal with myself with a close relative. I believe this is a great time to lean on pets. Having a staring contest with them (yes, it can actually help and be fun!), cuddling with them, and/or letting them sleep in your bed can all be ways to enjoy eye contact and physical touch.
In addition, spending time outside (6 feet apart) while sitting in chairs on the deck, in the driveway eating your own sandwiches, or even watching the dogs run around in the backyard, can allow for crucial eye contact.
And, at some point, we will need to consider if the benefit of giving someone a hug (who is alone, especially) may outweigh the risk of the virus. This is dependent on everyone involved, but is food for thought…
Feeling alone and disconnected during this unprecedented time is not uncommon. But with mindful actions we can help others and ourselves feel engaged and loved.
Is it time to change your daily habit to include something sensory?