From working to socializing, many aspects of how we interact with others have changed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The best way to keep yourself and others healthy is to limit your exposure to potentially infected particles by social distancing. Since that means no handshakes or hugs for the foreseeable future, what’s a safe way to greet others while social distancing? Your Glenpool dentist shares nine touch-free hellos that won’t spread germs during the COVID-19 pandemic.
1.) A Friendly Wave
While you may be used to waving only to people who are far away, this classic gesture is just as meaningful to those standing right in front of you!
2.) Bowing
In some situations, you may want a slightly more formal way of greeting someone. Giving a slight, quick bow is a great alternative in circumstances where you would typically shake someone’s hand.
3.) Hand Over Heart
Recently, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus demonstrated a friendly yet refined contactless salutation by placing his right hand over his heart and smiling.
4.) Namaste
While you may have seen this gesture in Western varieties of yoga and meditation, the namaste is a traditional salutation from Southwest Asia. Signify gratitude and respect by pressing your palms together at your chest and bowing slightly.
5.) Shaka
For a laid-back greeting with an island vibe, try the shaka. Popular among surfers and cab drivers, this gesture can be created by making a fist, then extending your pinky finger and thumb.
6.) Footshaking
You may not be encouraged to shake someone’s hand, but you can “shake” feet! This fun way of saying hello or goodbye involves both people standing on one foot and tapping their raised feet together, all the while being very careful to keep their balance of course!
7.) Blow a Kiss
Are you used to greeting others with a kiss on the cheek? If you don’t live with the person, it’s safer to blow a kiss to them instead to prevent spreading germs. This playful gesture is a great substitute as long as you don’t touch your fingers to your lips!
8.) Air High-Five or Fist Bump
Sometimes, a more enthusiastic movement is needed when saying hello, goodbye, good luck, or great job. You can still express your sentiments with a high-five or fist bump if you don’t make physical contact.
9.) Just Say Hello
You don’t have to make greeting others new or complicated. Looking someone in the eye while saying hello or goodbye with a sincere smile is a great way to show someone you care about seeing them.
COVID-19 has changed the definition of normal in many parts of our lives, 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 throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
About the Practice
At Glendale Braces, nothing is more important than the wellbeing of our patients and their families. In these unusual times, we encourage all our patients to practice excellent at-home oral hygiene, social distancing, and regular handwashing. We are closely monitoring the COVID-19 pandemic and adjusting our dental safety protocols in Glenpool accordingly. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us via our website or at (918) 201-1414.