Alternate Greetings

So there's a pandemic on, and I don't know if you've been following, but the traditional forms of physical contact are being heavily advised against. That includes handshakes, hugging, high fives, cheek kissing and the other tiny gestures that we don't really think about in normal times, but now feel slightly off now that they're gone. 

It's an odd time, and it's more than likely you've already had the awkward half-shuffle where neither of you know how to greet each other. What to do?

Well you're in luck. This little guide is to show you a few ways to greet others — sans the germs. It's still wise to keep your distance from people in general — social distancing is all the rage, pass it on — but these should do in a pinch.

The Elbow Bump

You might have seen this one. It seems to be the most popular alternative to the handshake. Get those elbows up and bumping, and it's important to get solid contact, just like a fist bump. And hey, while you're at it, make sure to sneeze into your elbow rather than your hands. No manners these days.

The Live Long and Prosper

Just like Leonard Nimoy did it, split those digits in half and wish your friends and a healthy "Live Long and Prosper."

This will quickly give you away as a giant dork, but Star Trek rules! And also, we might be living through the end times, so it's about time you become comfortable with yourself. 

The Healthy Wave

For the more paranoid/precautious reader, just keep a healthy distance — perhaps 6 feet or more — and give your friends a nice little wave! Yes they'll miss you when you're standing all the way over there, but this is how you show that you care. 

The Foot Bump 

If you're not into touching hands but think still want to greet someone on the street, do the Foot Bump. You both lift a leg and bump feet, it's in the name. The few people still out on the street might look at you funny, but you can definitely make this exchange cool — and it's good for balance. Added health bonus.

The Peace Sign

Throw up the peace sign like you're living your best hippie life and show the other person you only want peace and goodwill towards man. This particular gesture isn't as popular as it used to be, but everything seems up in the air right now, so let's see if we can bring it back.

The Air Shake

So one of my fellow reporters swears she's seen in real life. Instead of shaking someone's hand as you do, instead outstretch your hand at a distance and pantomine shaking with the other person. It might come off as the world's most boring game of charades, but you're doing your part.