9 HEALTHY HELLOS THAT WON’T SPREAD GERMS IN COVID-19
From getting groceries to connecting with family, the COVID-19 pandemic has changed many aspects of our everyday lives. The best way to keep yourself and others safe from the coronavirus pandemic is to practice social distancing and reduce your exposure to others. Now that handshakes and hugs are being postponed, how are you greeting those around you? Your North Port dentist shares nine no-touch ways to say hello that won’t spread germs during the COVID-19 pandemic.
1.) A Friendly Wave
While many parts of “normal” life look very different than they used to, connecting with others can still be just as simple as giving a friendly wave.
2.) Bow
Bowing is a more formal and respectful way to communicate sentiments like hello, goodbye, and thank you. Try giving a slight bow to politely enter or exit a conversation.
3.) Hand Over Heart
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus recently demonstrated a dignified yet friendly greeting by placing his right hand over his heart and smiling.
4.) Namaste
While you may see the Namaste practiced in Western varieties of yoga and meditation, it is a traditional salutation from Southeast Asia. Press your palms together in front of your heart while bowing slightly to express gratitude and respect.
5.) Shaka
If you’re looking for a more laid-back and fun way to say hello, try the shaka. This island greeting can be created by making a fist, then extending your pinky finger and thumb.
6.) Footshaking
You may not be able to shake hands with someone, but you can “shake” feet! Standing on one leg and tapping your foot against another person’s raised foot is a fun, contactless way to greet someone. Just be very careful not to lose your balance!
7.) Blow a Kiss
When they’re very young, many children are taught to say goodbye by blowing a kiss. This playful greeting can be used in some situations today, as long as your fingers don’t touch your lips.
8.) Air High-Five
A high-five is a classic way to enthusiastically say hello, goodbye, or to celebrate good news. You can still use this greeting as long as you stop short several inches before making contact.
9.) Just Say Hi
Saying hello during the pandemic doesn’t have to be new or complicated. Verbally communicating your hello with a sincere smile and eye contact is an excellent way to show others that you care about seeing them.
COVID-19 has changed many things, but it hasn’t changed the importance of a heartfelt hello. Use these nine touch-free greetings to keep yourself and others happy, healthy, and connected during the COVID-19 pandemic.
About the Practice
At Shore Dental, nothing is more important than the wellbeing of our patients, staff, and the community of North Port, FL. We have been carefully monitoring both the COVID-19 pandemic as well as the recommendations set forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. After careful consideration, we have implemented a wide variety of new infection control protocols to safeguard your health and safety if you need to visit us in these unusual times. If you would like to learn more about our Commitment to Safety free to contact us via our website or at (941) 257-0826.