The COVID-19 pandemic has changed many simple aspects of our lives we once took for granted, including how we say “hello.” If you are a hugger or a handshaker, you may start to feel lonely in the age of social distancing. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways you can connect with those around you without increasing your risk of getting sick. Here are nine suggestions from your Astoria dentist for how to safely greet others in COVID-19.
1.) A Friendly Wave
A classic way to start or end a conversation is to wave. This simple way of acknowledging someone is a great way to make them feel seen and appreciated from a distance.
2.) Bowing
In Japan, a bow is a common way to express a variety of sentiments. A quick, slight bow can be used as a friendly and respectful way to start or end a conversation.
3.) Namaste
Namaste is a traditional salutation used throughout Southeast Asia to signify respect and gratitude. To practice it, press your palms together in front of your heart and bow your head slightly.
4.) Footshaking
You may not be able to shake hands right now, but you can “shake” feet! While standing on one leg, tap your foot against another person’s foot. Just be careful not to lose your balance!
5.) Hand Over Heart
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus recently demonstrated the no-touch greeting of placing your right hand over your heart. This indicates genuine happiness to meet someone.
6.) Shaka
Popular among surfers and beachgoers, the shaka is a laid-back way to say hello that originated from the Hawaiian Islands. To create a shaka, make a fist and extend your pinky and thumb.
7.) Blow a Kiss
If you’re looking for a more playful way to say “hi,” try blowing a kiss! However, just be sure you don’t touch your fingers to your lips or throw spittle at whoever you’re greeting.
8.) Air High-Five
You can still give someone an enthusiastic high-five as long as you don’t make contact. Simply stop short before your hands touch to keep you both safe and healthy.
9.) Just Say “Hi”
Saying “hello” doesn’t have to be complicated. You can’t go wrong with a sincere, heartfelt “hello” or “goodbye” when it comes to showing someone you care about seeing them.
COVID-19 has changed many aspects of our lives, but it hasn’t changed the importance of a genuine greeting. Keep yourself and others safe, healthy, and happy with some of these touch-free hellos during the COVID-19 pandemic.
About the Practice
Dr. Eduart Shkurti of ED Dental is committed to the wellbeing of his patients, staff, and the entire community of Astoria, NY and the Queens area. He has always gone above and beyond to put the comfort and safety of his patients first with advanced dental technology and comfortable, effective treatments. In these unusual times, he has established a variety of additional dental safety protocols in Astoria to keep his patients healthy while they receive the care for their smile they need. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact him via his website or at (718) 806-1662.