I've taken to calling my friends on the phone over the past few months, after years of texting. I've let them know I'm going to try to do more of this and everyone I've mentioned it to has responded positively. We've decided that even if we just have a moment and want to share something funny or interesting, we're going to try to have a quick phone conversation.
This has helped me feel more connected to the people who I don't see in person frequently in a way that feels more "real" than texts or emails.