From keeping up with family to completing our daily work, many aspects of how we connect with other have been drastically changed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Practicing social distancing and limiting any close contact with people you don’t live with is essential to preventing the spread of germs. Since that means no hugs, handshakes, or other typical greetings you may be used to, how do you safely say hello during a pandemic? Your Collinsville dentist shares nine touch-free alternatives you can use while staying a safe distance away from others.
1.) A Friendly Wave
Waving is a classic way to say hello or goodbye without making physical contact. It’s a great way to greet someone whether they’re six feet apart from you or behind a plastic sneeze guard.
2.) Bowing
Different people and situations in your life require different types of greetings. In circumstances where a handshake would be acceptable, try giving a slight bow as a touch-free alternative.
3.) Hand Over Heart
Placing your right hand over your heart and giving a smile is a polite and refined greeting you can use in the COVID-19 pandemic. Recently, it was demonstrated by WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
4.) Namaste
The namaste is a traditional salutation from Southeast Asia. To show gratitude and respect, press your palms together in front of your heart and give a slight bow.
5.) Footshaking
Instead of shaking someone’s hand, try shaking their feet! This fun way to say hello or goodbye involves both people standing on one foot and tapping their raised feet together. Just be sure to keep your balance!
6.) Shaka
For a more laid-back greeting, try the shaka. This island gesture is popular among surfers, beachgoers, and taxicab drivers. It’s made by making a fist while keeping the pinky finger and thumb extended. Sometimes it’s accompanied by the phrase “Hang loose!”
7.) Blow a Kiss
Do you typically greet those close to you with a kiss on the cheek? To prevent the spread of germs, try blowing them a kiss instead. This playful greeting shows your affection without increasing the risk of either of you getting sick.
8.) Air High-Five or Fist Bump
Some hellos, goodbyes, and congratulations need a little more enthusiasm than typical greetings. You can still celebrate with a traditional high-five or fist bump as long as you stop several inches away from making physical contact!
9.) Just Say Hello
Greeting others in COVID-19 doesn’t have to be completely new or different! You can always express your hellos and goodbyes with your words and sincere eye contact to let someone know you care about seeing them!
While COVID-19 has changed many aspects of our day-to-day lives, it hasn’t changed the importance of a heart-felt hello! Keep others and yourself happy, healthy, and connected by using one of these nine touch-free greetings during the pandemic.
About the Practice
At Collinsville Dental, nothing is more important than the wellbeing of our patients and staff. We have been monitoring the COVID-19 pandemic and recommendations from the CDC carefully, and are happy to welcome you back to our practice as of May 1st, 2020. A wide variety of new guidelines and infection control protocols have been put in place to ensure everyone’s health and safety at each visit. To learn more about what you can expect at your next appointment, contact us via our website or at (276) 647-1494.