After beginning self-isolation nine weeks ago, I’ve definitely started feeling the effects of cabin fever. My cat Daisy has been a wonderful companion, but even she can’t replace my longing for fresh air, green trees, and wide-open spaces.
Yesterday morning, I woke up at 5am. By 6:30am, I’d decided to take advantage of the quiet and head out to my local park. I’ve been tempted to go before, but the narrow pavements and usual daytime crowds always made me hesitant. This time, the early morning calm made it feel safer and more manageable.
And I’m so glad I went.
It felt incredible to simply be outside, breathing in the fresh morning air. The sunshine hadn’t yet reached full strength, and the stillness of the trees and open fields was a balm for my mental wellbeing. I listened to an audiobook as I wandered, letting the calm wash over me, breakfast tucked away in my bag.
A short while later, I bumped into a friend walking her dog. We walked together for a bit before settling by a bench for a proper catch-up. It was such a lovely and unexpected surprise—an hour spent in the company of someone I care about, after so much solitude, lifted my spirits more than I could have imagined. As we sat, we watched the morning mist drift away across the river, revealing a view of Maldon that has remained unchanged for a century.
I knew stepping outside would help, but I had underestimated just how much I needed it. After nine long weeks at home, this simple morning walk felt like a gift. I know not everyone can safely go out right now, but if you’re able to get to a quiet space and maintain distance from others, I can’t recommend it enough. It did me the world of good.
That said, I’m not often awake that early—and usually in bed by the time the sun sets—so it may be a while before I can recreate that peaceful outing. But I’ll hold on to the memory and the sense of freedom it gave me for some time to come. And if you’re unable to get out yourself, I hope these photos bring a bit of joy to your day. I’ve certainly appreciated seeing friends’ pictures of woodland paths, bluebells, and the countryside—they’ve become my window to the world.
Spending time with someone in person also reminded me how vital human connection is. Even though we can call and video chat, there’s something incredibly grounding about being face to face. If you’re still shielding or staying home, perhaps a friend could visit you from the garden, wave through the window, or stop by the front of your house for a brief chat. Those tiny moments of connection can become precious memories that help carry us through the more difficult days.
I hope this post finds you well and that you’re discovering small ways to manage during these strange and uncertain times. Personally, the last few weeks have been some of the hardest. I’ve been working on being kind to myself—keeping expectations low and reminding myself that if I’ve managed to feed myself and the cat, it’s a good day.
This is uncharted territory for all of us. Even for those of us used to long periods at home due to chronic illness, this shared global isolation is new and strange. Please remember: there’s support out there. Whether through local volunteer groups, online services, or just a trusted friend or family member—don’t go through this alone. There’s always someone who will listen.
Thanks for reading,
Emma x
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