Things To Do Whilst Social-Distancing: A Guide By Basma Khalifa
A Note from Team BASE: These are unprecedented times and as we all try to adapt and adjust our lives in this strange new world, isolating ourselves from friends and family it is important now more than ever for us to stay connected.
Over the next few weeks, we will be publishing a series of weekly to-do lists, curated by some of our friends, industry insiders and community. They will be sharing their recommendations of things to read, listen to and watch to help keep your minds occupied, your bodies healthy and your souls energised. Whether you’re practising social-distancing or having to self-isolate we hope these recommendations will offer little nuggets of cultural escapism and spark a little joy.
The first in our series of cultural to-do lists is curated by Sudanese, London based journalist, film maker and fashion stylist Basma Khalifa. Basma has worked in the fashion industry for over 10 years, working for magazines such as ES, Instyle and Vogue. She is currently working on projects covering the intersection of identity and diversity. Khalifa’s powerful debut feature documentary ‘Inside the Real Saudi Arabia’ has been viewed over 1.7million times and syndicated worldwide. She spoke with us about the little things that are helping her through this period of social-distancing, from Oprah’s podcast to candles and incense sticks.
MIND
WHAT music are you currently listening to?
Bas’ Milkyway album. From start to finish there’s not a song I would skip which is so rare on an album. I love that Bas is Sudanese and reps on such a global scale. I feel like Sudanese people have an unspoken connection and when I listen to this album not only do I feel like dancing but I feel like I understand what he is saying. It’s been on repeat since 2018. PartyNextDoor – His album PartyMobile just came out and it’s dreamy. Also listening to Dave’s Physcodrama, it came out last year and I still haven’t had enough of it.
What PODCASTS are you listening to?
A road less travelled by Reggie Yates is lovely. I listened to the recent episode by Riz Ahmed and it’s great. I also love Modern Love and Oprah’s Supersoul Conversations. I like Clara Amfo’s This City too because it’s relatable.
What are you currently READING?
I loved Shoe dog. I read it on holiday in January and felt like I really learned about the mentality and emotional side of Phil Knight who created Nike. I also finished Bobette Buster’s book on ‘How to tell your story‘ which in my line of work was super helpful, now I am on the hunt for my next read…
WHAT are you watching?
Don’t F*ck with cats was great. I really like how they told the story, it’s interesting to see different ways of story-telling. I also really enjoyed Noughts and Crosses, so positive to see British TV meet the same levels as the States and deliver on great cinematography. I watched Little Women as well, beautifully directed and depicted.
HOW are you looking after yourself mentally and emotionally?
I started the first two weeks on the phone non-stop, enjoying the constant ability to chat to everyone everyday but it soon became overwhelming to constantly be on the phone. Now I have a no phone rule for at least 2 hours of every day and I minimise phone calls to two a day and no longer than an hour. Who knew talking to people you love could be so strenuous. I also make sure I pop outside for a walk first thing in the morning and do a daily work out.
BODY
How are you staying FIT during the lockdown?
I find workouts that are recommended to me by people I follow. On day one of self-isolation I did the Ellie Goulding x Joe Wicks work out on IG live but since then I have done Ciara London which I feel like every girl in London is doing. I have also done Pmac and if I want to do yoga I usually just pop onto YouTube.
What are your favourite meals or SNACKS that are getting you through each day?
Weirdly, I thought I would be eating none stop but it’s actually the opposite. I don’t know whether everyone storing food has made me feel like I need to ration my food but I am just not eating half as much as I used too. If I want a snack its usually lentil chips and hummus or hazelnut spread on a salt + vinegar rice cakes. I love to cook so I make things at home most days anyway so it’s not really new to me.
SOUL
WHAT are your sources of inspiration?
During lock down IG Lives have been so inspiring. Joshua Kissi talks everyday with creatives about their practises and inspirations. It’s been really nice to watch as you feel like you are part of the conversation and I also feel like I am learning and being inspired to keep creating.
What are your home luxuries that are making you HAPPY?
Candles. I love a Diptyque candle, I’m currently using Tubéreuse, I also like Jo Malone. I have a diffuser and I like to mix ylang ylang and Lavender and I love jasmine incense sticks, I am a sucker for nice smells.
Do you have any other TIPS that get you through the week?
My #todayslist hashtag I have on Instagram. Every day I list things I would like to get done today, some roll over to the next day but it means I feel like I am achieving things by ticking off a list. I have had lovely feedback from other people who have been inspired to start their own list which has been lovely.
Follow: @Basmakhalifa