15 Best Socially Distant Games to Boost Your Mood and Connection
Human beings are naturally social creatures. Whether we are navigating a global health crisis or simply looking for ways to socialise safely during the flu season, maintaining our mental wellbeing is crucial. Finding creative ways to engage in socially distant games allows us to foster community spirit without compromising our health.
According to the NHS, connecting with others is one of the five steps to mental wellbeing. However, when physical distancing is required, we must adapt our methods of social interaction. From park gatherings to virtual hangouts, there are endless ways to stay playful and connected.
The Benefits of Staying Playful
Engaging in play isn’t just for children. For adults, participating in outdoor activities and games can provide significant stress relief. Research published in Nature suggests that spending at least 120 minutes a week in nature is associated with good health and wellbeing.
By choosing non-contact sports or low-impact socially distant games, you can maintain an active lifestyle while minimising risk. These activities help combat social isolation, which Mind UK identifies as a key factor in developing mental health struggles.
Top Outdoor Socially Distant Games
When the weather permits, heading outside is often the safest way to meet. The World Health Organization notes that outdoor ventilation significantly reduces the risk of airborne transmission.
- Disc Golf: A perfect example of a game that naturally maintains distance. Players throw frisbees into metal baskets across a large field.
- Scavenger Hunts: Organise a hunt in your local park where teams find items or take photos of specific landmarks.
- Pictionary in the Grass: Use a large stick to draw in a sandpit or a portable whiteboard set up six feet away.
- Shadow Tag: Instead of touching a person, you must step on their shadow to “tag” them.
Comparative Overview of Game Types
| Game Category | Best For | Risk Level | Equipment Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virtual Board Games | Cognitive health | Zero | Smartphone/Laptop |
| Non-contact Sports | Physical fitness | Low | Tennis rackets/Balls |
| Driveway Bingo | Neighbourhood bonding | Very Low | Printed cards/Pens |
Bridging the Gap with Virtual Hangouts
When physical proximity isn’t possible, technology steps in. While many of us experience zoom fatigue, switching the focus from “meetings” to “play” can revitalise the experience. Experts at Psychology Today suggest that structured activities are often less draining than open-ended video calls.
If you feel overwhelmed by screens, consider a digital detox shortly after your game to balance your sensory input. However, using virtual hangouts for board games or trivia can be a lifeline for those living alone.
- Online Escape Rooms: Work together via screen-share to solve puzzles and “break out” of a digital room.
- Murder Mystery Nights: Assign roles beforehand and use costumes to make the evening feel special.
- Video Game Tournaments: Games like “Among Us” or “Fall Guys” are designed for social play.
Maintaining Cognitive Health through Games
Games do more than just pass the time; they protect our brains. Harvard Health highlights that mentally stimulating activities may help keep the mind sharp as we age. Engaging in socially distant games that require strategy, such as chess or complex board games played via remote platforms, supports cognitive health.
According to BBC Health, the lack of stimulation during lockdowns led to increased reports of “brain fog,” making these playful interactions even more essential for our neurological resilience.
Safety First: How to Play Responsibly
While the goal is fun, safety remains the priority. The UK Government and The CDC provide regular updates on how to gather safely. Always check local guidelines before organising park gatherings.
Consider these tips for a safe experience:
- Avoid sharing equipment like bats, balls, or cards without sanitising them first.
- Use individual snack packs rather than communal bowls.
- Set clear boundaries regarding physical distancing before the game begins.
- Prioritise non-contact sports like tennis or badminton where players are naturally separated by a net, as recommended by Sport England.
The Impact on Community and Loneliness
Loneliness is a significant public health issue. The British Red Cross has found that millions of people in the UK feel lonely “always or often.” Organising socially distant games in your street or local community can bridge this gap.
Whether it’s a driveway quiz or a window-based “I Spy” for local children, these small acts of social interaction build resilience. The Mental Health Foundation emphasises that even small connections can significantly reduce the feeling of being cut off from the world.
For those looking for regional support, Public Health Scotland offers resources on tackling isolation through community-led outdoor activities. Staying active isn’t just a physical requirement; it’s a social one too. As noted by the Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH), an active lifestyle combined with social bonds is the gold standard for public health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are socially distant games as effective for mental health as regular games?
Yes. While physical distancing changes the format, the core components of play—challenge, laughter, and social interaction—remain. These elements are key to stress relief and maintaining mental wellbeing, regardless of the distance between players.
What are the best socially distant games for children?
Children benefit greatly from outdoor activities like “Red Light, Green Light,” “Simon Says,” or nature-based scavenger hunts. These games naturally encourage physical distancing while allowing kids to burn off energy and develop social skills.
How can I avoid technology fatigue while playing games?
To avoid zoom fatigue, try “analogue” socially distant games. This could include garden-to-garden charades, driveway bingo, or even traditional correspondence games like “Chess by Post.” These allow for social interaction without constant screen time, aiding in a digital detox.
Can elderly individuals participate in these activities?
Absolutely. Activities like gentle park gatherings for birdwatching or “Hallway Bingo” in assisted living facilities are excellent for cognitive health and reducing social isolation among seniors, provided safety protocols are followed.
