The pandemic has placed most of the world in quarantine, with people selflessly and responsibly self-isolating to prevent the spread of coronavirus COVID-19. This isolation presents a problem in itself since humans depend on social connections to feel accepted and well, especially when it comes to loved ones. Many are away from friends and families, some are living alone, some are single parents or just single. There are even people living abroad or stranded there with no means of returning to their home countries at the moment.

And let’s not forget those fighting on the front lines and avoiding any contact outside of work to prevent the potential spread of the virus in the community. The situation is overwhelming and difficult, so an act of kindness can go a long way in these hard times. Here are some ideas for how to tell your loved ones they are not alone and warm their hearts, no matter where they are.

1.    A book to chase the blues away

Books are a wonderful means to escape this madness without actually going anywhere. If you have a bookworm out there, then this is the best gift you can send to show affection during the isolation. You can go to an online store and order one or more books to arrive at their address from anywhere. Alternatively, if they are more into digital editions, you can also send some their way and surprise them the next time they turn their e-book reader on. Some stores allow family memberships so you can activate this service and share books with your parents, spouse, or kids, and create a small book club.

2.    Make them laugh

Laughing is an important part of life that will boost the mood and make self-isolation more bearable. Make the cutout of yourself and send it to their home to keep them company. Portraits of pets dressed in different periods are trendy right now and can be printed as real paintings. A full body pillow is a great gift for anyone who needs to snuggle and a restful night's sleep. On the other hand, a full-body blanket may also be a fun thing to have to feel warm and comfy when reading or watching TV. To the very least, share your streaming service with them or gift them one to watch stand-up comedies, sitcoms, and theater shows. 

3.    Keep them active

Since this virus is especially dangerous for older people and those with chronic conditions, they try not to go out unless necessary. If you want to make sure your parents are getting the exercise they need, get them some equipment, like a treadmill or a mini stepper. If this is over your budget, you can send them a mat, some dumbbells, and exercise rubber bands. Unfortunately, older people are not the only ones being physically inactive. For younger friends and family, get them a subscription to an exercise channel, online instructors, or simply send them Jane Fonda's workout DVD.

4.    Something to sweeten the day

A birthday, anniversary, or simple ‘thinking of you’ cake will make someone’s day in self-isolation and elevate their spirits. There are many options today that are healthy and tasty at the same time to sweeten the day. Vegan, gluten-free, and natural ingredients may cost you a little bit more, but it’s well worth it to say to that special someone that you have their back even if far away. If cake, cookies, and other sweets are not that person’s thing, there are still ways to make it sweet. Send them a fruit basket with dark chocolate and homemade jams. In case you really want to go above and beyond, make something yourself and then order delivery service to take it to that special person's home. 

5.    Brighten up their day with a flower

If there is one service you can always count on that is flower delivery. It's perfect for any occasion and you can even send your personal message with a colorful arrangement or live plant. Another plus side is that you can do this from any part of the world. For example, flower delivery in Adelaide will work even if you are across the globe in Seattle. This is a wonderful way to say ‘happy birthday’, show someone you are thinking about them, or just show your love and appreciation for that person. You can even add a teddy bear or helium balloons, something kids will especially like, or parents of the newborn baby.

In the end

Start from yourself and think about what would make you happy while self-isolating. That may not be what the people you want to surprise need, but will get you in the right direction when it comes to ideas. Soon you will find an abundance of ways to show affection during isolation and remind someone they are loved and cared for. Not only will that make someone's days better, but it also gives you a purpose to withstand this global pandemic with a full heart.

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