Volume 04

Welcome back to the Isolation Diaries, our weekly round-up of the things that bring us joy and keep us motivated in lockdown. This week, we’re working hard, practising mindfulness, and sailing through some quality yacht rock. What have you been up to?

Stories of strength and stamina? Yes please. Issue 21 of The Gentlewoman is out and it’s led by South African runner Caster Semenya. Looking for some new perspectives? The New Philosopher’s latest issue is an enthralling collection all about family. If you’d prefer to switch off and check in, Mindfulness, Bliss and Beyond combines inspiring stories, humour and positivity into one meditation handbook.

There’s a new season airing now on ABC, so we’re watching Killing Eve from the beginning again to catch up. After some more drama from the world of pro cycling? The Least Expected Day: Inside the Movistar Team 2019 on Netflix is worth a look. You’ve seen everything and you need something different for staying in on a Saturday night? Revisit your film noir phase, starting with the 1944 classic, The Woman in the Window.

If there’s one thing all this time at home has sparked, it’s an interest in gardening. This beginner’s guide from the ABC is a great starting point to grow your own vegetables, even if you have limited space. Troubled for some weeknight dinner ideas? Ottolenghi Simple has been keeping us inspired. On all the other days, we’ve been making orders… Because The Grand Hotel Richmond is doing takeaway. Check out your locals, they probably are too.

During this time, we’ve really been missing our weekly fix of ‘yacht rock’ in the studio. This two-hour playlist helps. For those days you need extra concentration, the new Nils Frahm album is beautiful—and poignant. Need something weird and captivating? Always wanted to hear from a balloon, or a stethoscope? Everything is Alive is your typical absurdist interview podcast… except the subjects are inanimate objects.