Ellie Meeks is a model and fashion marketing management student at Cardiff Metropolitan university.
We caught up with Ellie to find out about her life in isolation…
What does isolation look like where you live? How has your local community been affected?
I usually live in Cardiff, in a house with five of my friends. Cardiff is such a vibrant city full of bars and restaurants, we live a 10-minute walk from the centre! I really miss going out for cocktails and for food, it’s so sad that these places have had to close.
During this lockdown I’ve been living back at home in Gloucester with my family, we’re very lucky as we can go on plenty of walks and our local Indian restaurant is doing take aways so we’re making the most of that!
Can you talk us through your daily routine in isolation?
Every day varies, at the start of lockdown I took the time to catch up on uni work and also work on my fitness. I also worked in supermarkets with my friend, which was a great way to help the community as well as stay occupied.
Now, I find myself being a lot less motivated and lazy. I think keeping a routine is getting more and more difficult the longer this situation goes on.
What are the biggest impacts the lockdown has had on your life?
I don’t think I realised how much human contact and socialising is needed! I miss my friends, family, restaurants, bars and I really miss going to the cinema. I also miss going on holiday so much!
What has been a silver lining from being in isolation? Any special memories?
I’ve really enjoyed nights in drinking with my house mates in Cardiff and watching endless hours of Harry Potter. I’ve also taken part in so many Facetime quizzes with friends and family, which I’ve loved.
What has been the biggest lesson you’ve learnt during this time?
I think the biggest lesson for everyone, is not taking anyone or anything for granted. Moments with your family and friends and all the activities that are usually so accessible are such luxuries that we should really appreciate.
What are your self-care tips at home?
I think so many people are putting such pressure on themselves to be productive and achieve something during the lockdowns. But honestly, at the moment my biggest self-care tips are… getting out of bed, going for walks, drinking water and doing face masks.
Where do you want to travel to when the restrictions are lifted?
In 2019 I went to Bali for two weeks and fell in love with it, I’d love to go there again as soon as I’m able.
Transport yourself to December 2021, what would you like to have achieved this year?
I hope I’d have achieved my degree, booked some incredible modelling jobs and got some sun somewhere abroad. I’m dreaming of Bali again!
