#3 - Connection during Isolation
My articles, links, and more tips and strategies to maximize your credit card rewards
How we feel daily
How is everyone doing around the world? It’s been about two weeks since my friends and family in the States went into self-isolation. Just recently, the number of confirmed cases in the US has risen past any other country. This is likely because of the higher rate of testing. I hope that everyone’s efforts these past few weeks have stopped the spread, but we won’t know for sure.
Things might seem pretty bleak. But there are signs of life and amazing generosity from people all over the world. We are showing appreciation for our healthcare providers and rallying to donate for those in need. Even the US government has stepped up with a $2 trillion stimulus package. I won’t get into the weeds and discuss the efficacy but at least it’s something.
Here in Taiwan, we’ve seen a big increase in cases over the past week. While the majority of the cases are ‘imported’. Taiwan has only had 42 out of 283 cases from community spread. However, this one case is a bit unnerving.
The other new domestic case, No. 269, leads an ordinary life, going to work and staying at home the rest of the time, reports said. Seven relatives and colleagues are being investigated for the possibility of infection, according to the CECC.
This basically describes everyone in Taipei at the moment. The uncertainty of the source of contraction is the scary part. Even though there isn’t a government-mandated (or even suggested) social distancing, people are taking their own precautions and limiting social interactions outside. The government has restricted large events and gatherings.
So while our lives are mostly normal, we still feel the impacts it has had on our loved ones around the world. Here are some ways we stay connected and keep our spirits up. Hoping everyone is staying safe!
How to connect during isolation
The world has seen an unprecedented number of video calls and virtual hangouts over the past few weeks. Mandatory WFH and virtual classes have made Zoom and Slack household names. How have people been getting their social interaction fix during this time?
Video chats via Zoom, Skype and Google Hangouts
Everyone is showing off their virtual happy hours and virtual dance parties on social media. I’ll admit, it’s great to get everyone in the same space. Having been away from home for so long, I cherish these moments where we can joke and laugh like old times.
Miss these guys
Group mediation 🧘🏻♂️
This has become my favorite part of the day. Meditation has become an important part of my life over the past few years. And with the current environment, it is even more important. I encourage anyone who is stuck in their homes to sit and practice with some amazing teachers. Here are some of my favorite links:
Ten Percent Happier - I’ve been using this app for over 3 years. They have recently started daily (weekday) live streams with some of the best teachers. There’s a short guided meditation with some Q&A afterward.
John Vervaeke - This guy is the rock star in the cognitive science space. I’ve been watching his lecture series ‘Awakening from the Meaning Crisis’ to get a deeper understanding of existential questions. It’s a pleasure to have him share his wisdom and guidance through this time.
30 Day Meditation Challenge - Twitter and virtual networking certainly can bring like-minded individuals together. I’ll be joining this group for some live chats, daily motivation reminders, and a community of spiritually wealthy people.
Travis Mann - Travis and I have been great friends since our days in Chicago. He actually got me into meditation during my year-long travels. He’s an experienced meditator with an insightful and humorous perspective on the practice. He’ll be hosting group meditations as well as offering 1-1 chats if you want to dig a little deeper.
Netflix Party Google Extension
Although I haven’t tried it yet, this looks like a great way to watch your favorite shows with your favorite people. It synchronizes the video and includes a group chat. Hop on a Hangout or Zoom and you can see the reactions of your friends watching the same horror movie from the other side of the country.
Online Games
Remember the days of Words with Friends, Farmville, and all those other dumb games we used play on our iPhone 4’s. I’m guessing these make a come-back as people need some more entertainment for their sorry lives. Just kidding…these are fun! Check out Houseparty where you can play with a whole group of friends with a video chat capability
I’ve also started experimenting with online poker. You can create your own private rooms on sites like PokerStars and apps like PPPoker. Even if you can’t use real money in most states in the US, anyone can play with the play money. Only the degenerates will remember playing $20 buy-in home games while Rounders plays in the background on DVD. Let’s relive those glory days (but virtually).
Learn a new language
It seems that Duolingo is getting some extra downloads. My partner and I are both learning Spanish and I’m getting some extra practice in Mandarin. You can invite friends and compete to see who’s learning more.
Online tutoring is another way to learn. Companies like italki and Verbling. Find teachers from all over the world. It’s a great way to learn about other cultures and meet new people. It works both ways, too. If you are looking for some extra income, there are lots of students stuck at home around the world who are looking for the same kind of instruction.
Links and articles:
1. How to earn points during isolation
This might seem like a bad time to be thinking about travel and credit cards. But with all your free time, it might be the best time to get your finances in order. Start accumulating points so you can go on that epic post-COVID trip.
2. Save up to $50 on Amazon purchases using AMEX Membership Rewards
This is a targeted offer to save 20% (up to $50) on certain items (including gift cards) on Amazon. You must use your AMEX card for the purchase.
3. You should get that new card sooner rather than later
The One Mile At A Time blog is recommending getting that big offer now as things are very uncertain for the future of credit card bonuses.
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