Many of us are privileged enough to have a lot of time on our hands now or at least need a break from the stress of working (whether inside or outside the home) whilst homeschooling children.
I thought I’d do a round up of the channels I have been watching on YouTube, podcasts I’ve been enjoying and books I’ve read over the last month of lockdown. Whilst it it important to keep up with the Coronavirus situation, it can quickly become too much, too overwhelming and very anxiety inducing so some escapism is very much needed!
Podcasts (listen wherever you get your podcasts from)
Happy Place with Fearne Cotton
I have been listening to this podcast since it started and at the moment the themes of positive mental health that Fearne explores with her guests are extremely welcome.
Talking Tastebuds with Venetia La Manna
Again this is a podcast I have been listening to for a while and if you are interested in sustainable living in its myriad forms this is for you. It is very accessible and not at all preachy.
Ctrl Alt Delete with Emma Gannon
Over the last few month, this podcast has featured a number of very interesting authors (see links below in the book section) as well as a number of other inspiring people.
Wardrobe Crisis with Clare Press
This is another one for those of you interested in sustainability, Clare’s guests discuss many issues around fast fashion, the fashion chain and also the environment.
This podcast from BBC World Service is a very positive listen as they explore how ordinary people can make a real impact on innovative change.
(and for news Today In Focus from the Guardian)
YouTube
For pure escapism this channel fronted by Stephanie Jarvis, the owner of a chateau in the centre of France, hits the mark. I’m not embarrassed to say that we have been binge watching this channel over the time we have been at home and the best thing is that she posts up at least three new videos a week plus there is a massive back catalogue of episodes. I also love how you regularly see the lovely Stephanie in the same lovely dresses, no shame in ‘recycling’ her outfits!
I will readily admit that Valentina is my friend but that isn’t the only reason I recommend this channel. Another way to get a good cheerful fix during this strange days.
If you are curious about tiny house living then check out this channel. Very professional videos showcasing the best in tiny house living but still accessible to anyone. Take care, many of the tiny house dwellers Bryce and Rasa feature started out as armchair dreamers in normal houses before taking the plunge into tiny house living.
You will see there is a theme of escapism in almost all of these YouTube recommendations and Jonna’s life in a remote part of northern Sweden is no exception. I would challenge you to watch her videos and not feel really relaxed and chilled out. She doesn’t really have a posting schedule but there are plenty of older videos to watch.
No apologies for featuring Venetia’s YouTube channel here as well as her podcast. Her videos show her life eating plant based food, her sustainable lifestyle and plenty of inspiration.
Don’t forget that I also have a YouTube channel so please do pop over and have a watch. If you enjoy it please do subscribe as I would very much appreciate it.
Books
The Giver of the stars by Jojo Moyes
Feel good book which you will romp through, perfect for lockdown.
The Unmaking of Ellie Rook by Sandra Ireland
I found this thriller by chance in Copenhagen Main Library and I loved it. A gripping read which I sat up late to finish.
Pretending by Holly Bourne (also her interview on this podcast is fab)
Places I’ve Cried in Public by Holly Bourne
Both these books by Holly Bourne explore challenging themes but with humour (in the case of the first and sensitivity in the both). The first is an adult novel and the second a Young Adult one, but don’t let that put you off.
Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid (again this interview gives an excellent background to the novel with no spoilers)
I had seen people posting images of this book cover on social media and I had initially rejected it as I thought it was a mummy memoir (see you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover!). It explores the issues of race and privilege in the US and is a fascinating read.
Dejlige Days 