HOBBS
AT HOME

PART 3

Making sure you relax during this time is so important for your wellbeing, but it can be tricky when you're working from home – especially with your laptop always in reach. Keen to avoid her computer screen our Content Editor and Copywriter, Jen Wilkins, shares the ways she's switching off, indoors.

A classic hampstead townhouse frontage with a white front door, with surrounding greenery.

Hobbs Content Editor, Jen Wilkins photographed relaxing at home.

JUST LOUNGING

I know a TV is still a screen, but I love the escapism it offers. I can happily spend hours in front of it! Right now, I'm watching Ozark, Westworld and Killing Eve. But as a film fan, I've also challenged myself to tick some cult classics off my watch list. Last weekend, I saw Raising Arizona for the first time.

On the left, Jen works to complete her jigsaw. On the right is an interior shot of Jen's home.

GOOD OLD GAMES

There's something about focusing on a game, which really helps me take my mind off things. Because I'd heard puzzles can be a calming pastime, I bought a 1000-piece one for my partner and I to do during lockdown. It’s utterly absorbing but it will take us weeks to finish – it's so hard!

A pile of books situation on Jen's bed side.

BACK TO BOOKS

To be honest, I always have a book or two on the go. I live outside London, so it's a great way to pass the commute, plus I'm in the Hobbs Book Club! On my current reading list is Spring by Ali Smith, Girl. Woman. Other. by Bernardine Evaristo, Letters of Note and Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari.

On the left, Jen plans further home improvement whilst in isolation. On the right, the fruits of Jen's home improvements labour.

DEVOTED TO DIY

Even though we moved into our house six years ago, we're continually updating the interior and making home improvements. So we've been using the days indoors for DIY projects, like wallpapering the loo in a tropical palm print. Well, in my case, supervising it...

SOME 'ME' TIME

One of the first things I used to do when I got home after my commute was light a scented candle. It transformed my mood instantly and I've continued the ritual. I'm also regarding my downtime like being at a luxury retreat, indulging in lots of self-care, particularly face masks and long baths.