With almost a third of the world’s countries on lockdown, we’re flattening the COVID-19 curve across the globe. When the lockdowns lift, and social distancing restrictions end, it’s time to get back in the dating game. Spending 12-weeks by yourself is enough to leave anyone feeling a little stir-crazy.
So, how do you date during a pandemic? Sure, it’s easy enough to meet people online, but what do you do and where do you go when life starts getting back to normal?
In this brief guide to dating in the middle of a pandemic, we’ll give you some helpful hints and suggestions for getting your love life back on track.
1. Get Tested
Before you go out on your date or even think about getting into the dating pool, it’s time to get tested. In this case, we’re not talking about STIs; we mean testing for COVID-19. If you have antibodies, then you’re in the clear. If you don’t, then you’ll have to be careful on your date and take precautions to avoid infection.
A test is readily available, and you should have your results in a few days. After you receive your results, it’s time to get back in the dating game!
2. Chat with Your Date Before You Meet
There are so many places to meet your date online. From Tinder to Grindr, or Toronto escorts. Look through your options and settle on a partner you think will be the best match for you. On a regular Tinder date, you’ll arrange to meet up somewhere.
However, it’s better to pre-vet your date a bit before you go out to see if they are on the same page as you. The last thing you want it to go out with someone that’s not taking things as seriously as you during this pandemic.
Have a chat for a while before you go out and establish boundaries and rules for your date. Ask each other if you get tested and share your results. If you both have antibodies, then you shouldn’t have any issues with going on a date together.
3. Remember the PPE!
When out in public, remember to keep with the global protocol of #MasksForEveryone. Wear a facemask to show your support for your community, and the challenges facing the situation. When you’re in public, remember to respect people’s social distancing rules, and keep at least 6-feet away from each other until you get to the venue for your date.
Bring along some hand sanitizer, a spare mask, and maybe some gloves if you’re feeling cautious. Make sure you tell your date to do the same during your pre-date meeting online. However, if they are like you, then you probably won’t have to remind them to bring their PPE.
4. Go on a Picnic
So, now that you have your date agreed upon and the rules laid down for your contact – Where are you going to go? With most restaurants closed, and people being hesitant to eat out in public, going on a picnic seems like a great idea.
Go out to park on a sunny day, and make sure you set up your picnic spot far away from everyone else. Social distancing rules come in handy with giving you some privacy after all. Take a picnic basket and pack a light lunch. You can order some food over the phone or online from your local grocery store and bakery.
Of course, don’t forget a nice bottle of red wine. The resveratrol in red wine helps to boost the immune system. So, don’t be shy with that second glass.
5. Walk, Don’t Uber
If you’re going out on a date, choose a venue that’s in local walking distance. Avoid getting on public transport to meet each other and stay away from Ubers. Both methods of transport put you in close contact with other people. In the era of COVID-19, the more people you limit contact with, the better.
A walk is good for your health, and exercise helps to strengthen your immune system. Walking with the wind in your hair and the sun on your face is a great way to start your date. Have a chat while you walk and get to know each other.
6. Pay Digitally
If you do decide to pop into a carvel for ice cream, make sure you pay electronically. Avoid touching surfaces like card machines as much as possible and use your hand sanitizer after finishing your cone. Think about how many people might touch that card machine before you, and you have no idea about the state of their health.
Digital payments like QR code scans are a much safer means of paying than with cards or cash. Keep the germs off your fingers and pay digitally.
7. Have Fun!
Just because we’re living through a pandemic, doesn’t mean that you can’t have some fun. Take the time outdoors to get some fresh air and enjoy activities in the open.
Play a game of giant chess (remember to wear your gloves), go for a scooter ride along the boardwalk, or take a walk and a picnic on the beach. The summer is coming up, and there will be plenty of outdoor activities available for your date.
Wrapping Up – Let Dating Boost Your Immune System
Going on a date is a great way to boost your social interactions. According to scientific studies, the immune system gets its most significant boost from social interactions. Therefore, hiding away in your home isn’t doing you any favors; in fact, it’s weakening your immune system.
It might seem surprising to learn that the simple act of talking to someone is as powerful as downing a handful of vitamin C tablets, but it’s true. As social animals, we need interactions to boost bot our physical and mental health.
Get back out there on the dating circuit and meet some new people, it’s good for your health and your sanity. Don’t let the pandemic hold back your love life, thrive in the face of fear.
