The COVID-19 pandemic has been taking a toll on industries, brands, and performers whose core experience depends on socially gathering in a physical space, or having an in-person, face-to-face interaction. But many of these entities are not letting social distancing get in the way of engaging with their audience, and have quickly adapted their content and communication channels to reach out to their followers, especially in times when we need that connection the most.
Throughout the next few days, I'll be sharing some A+ examples that I've come across where people and organizations have brought genuine human connection in virtual ways.
Deutsche Grammophon Concert
Classical music record label Deutsche Grammophon live-streamed a special concert from Konzerthaus Berlin last week. I, along with thousands of other listeners, went on YouTube to watch performances from world-class musicians including pianist Lang Lang, mandolinist Avi Avital, and violinist Daniel Hope. Although the seats of the concert hall were empty, the YouTube chat was full of support and gratitude for the musicians who shared music as a connecting thread during these uncertain times.
Deutsche Grammophon stated, "The arts have always played a vital role in times of crisis, and tonight our friends - our artists, will also express solidarity with all fellow freelance musicians who are currently unable to perform live for their fans and who may therefore be facing hardship."
And Lang Lang said in an Instagram post, "In these challenging times, we need patience and love. And we need more good music.... Please don't leave your homes, we come to you."
Jitfit
With gyms closing their doors, people are looking for ways to stay active and healthy while staying indoors. John Le, owner of online workout program JitFit, has made his equipment-free workouts available for free on YouTube.
"I know how hard it is for people to workout at home, especially if they don't have equipment and if they are thrown off routine," explains John. "What's even harder is motivation. I normally charge $30 a month for JitFit but just wanted to show people there's an option to workout at home and have fun. Plus, I wanted to spread my humor under the disguise of working out."
I've been using John's JitFit program for a week, and it's been a fun change of pace from my usual gym routine. The workouts combine martial arts, calisthenic, and gymnastic movements to build agility and strength. And with each workout being a quick 30 minutes, and me stuck at home, I have no excuse! Those burpees, frog jumps, and crouch walks definitely get my heart rate going, and I'm learning new defense and offense moves while breaking a sweat (and breaking out into laughter thanks to John's jokes).
Check out one of the workouts here, and try out a free 2-week trial to get more JitFit.
Northcenter Healthcare
Staying at home tends to result in prolonged periods of sitting and decrease in overall movement. To help keep the body moving and healthy, Dr. Andy Park of Northcenter Healthcare shares quick at-home exercises through Instagram Stories.
"The idea is that when we are stuck at home we move even less than when we go to work regardless of its a sedentary job or not. So if the gym is closed we have no choice but to move at home. The health of your joints depend on movement," says Dr. Park. "Movement is as optional for your joints as vitamins are for your body. You may get away with eating poorly for a while but in the long run it will catch up with you! So while doing movements in the home are limited it is better than nothing and can help with the function of your circulatory system as well as your lymphatics!"
Each exercise is under 5 minutes, and I've found them to be a great break (mentally and physically!) when I'm working from home and sitting for hours in front of my laptop. Although the movements are short, my body immediately feels release from getting out of the sitting position.
Stay posted for more of my coverage of connective experiences!
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