"There is no reason singles cannot virtually date in the same way they would date in person."

If social media is anything to go by, Ireland is currently divided into two camps: couples who are finding it somewhat stressful to be constantly at home with their partners, and singles who are wishing that they had someone to socially distance with. I reached out to Irish relationships expert Annie Lavin, who told me that she's been inundated with requests for advice on how to manage relationships during the crisis.

"In terms of dating and relationships, I think time away from the distraction of work, hobbies and other people helps people focus on what is most important in their lives and/or their intimate relationships," Annie says. "Singles are most concerned about whether they are ever going to meet anyone and when they will ever be able to date again."

 

You might think that you need to be in a relationship to go for relationship coaching, but part of Annie's work involves getting single people to a place where they are ready for a lasting relationship and clear in what it is they want from one.

"My work aims to support singles to get ready for love so they don't fall into their same old unhelpful patterns in love. Singles coaching ensures clients become discerning daters who know their needs (rather than wants) and choose wisely once 'normality' as we once know it resumes."

In the meantime, does she think that it's possible for singles to get closer when they have to be kept apart?

"At the moment singles have virtual dating. Once singles have clarity regarding their dating needs and understand what is in the way of them attracting the love they deserve, there is no reason they cannot virtually date in the same way they would date in person."

Although there are few reasons to feel #blessed at the moment, Annie says that one silver lining of the Coronavirus crisis is that it's caused us to step back and take stock of what's most important to us.

"I think anything that causes us to pay attention to and prioritise looking at our dating and relationship habits is a good thing. The quality of our relationships impact the quality of our lives. Sometimes time can pass us by living in a way that is not in line with who we are and what we want. I think the slower pace helps us take stock and respond to these aspects of our life and this is ultimately a good thing."

You can see more of Annie's advice for singles on the Her Instagram. Make sure to follow us for more videos like this. Are you trying trying socially distanced dating? Share your experiences with us by emailing hello@her.ie.