Singer-songwriter Layla Kardan is finding comfort in the resilience of the human spirit, and suggests we seek what our souls crave.

How are you finding the transition to a new way of working/life? 
Initially the shock and sadness of the state of the world was too much for my heart to handle. I felt debilitated for the first week and allowed myself complete relaxation in order to reset so that I could deal with this new reality. I now have a good flow and routine which I try to stick to most days. The routine consists of stretching/workouts, learning, vocal exercises, writing, recording and time for meditation and prayer. I am also catching up on lots of great films and documentaries I’ve missed out on all these years. I am also taking the time to write my new album.

What have been the biggest challenges? 
Not being able to go outdoors for more than the essentials and not being able to see my friends.

What’s been the most pleasant surprise?
I have reconnected with a lot of people I hadn’t had a chance to reach out to in a while. The resilience of the people, human spirit and sense of community in these troubling times is so refreshing. It feels like we have been so disconnected the past decade and while it’s sad that it took a pandemic for us to slow down and reconnect, it’s beautiful to witness it during the crisis.

What are your hopes for the future?
I hope that this situation will invite us all to go inward and to collectively determine what needs to be changed in order for a better future for generations to come. I hope that we all consume less, have more respect for the environment, plant more, serve humanity more, play more, and reconnect with each other and nature. I also hope that my music will still have an audience.

What message do you have for Grazia readers?
Be kind to yourself during these challenging times, do what your soul craves – whether that’s eating or resting or working out or cooking. I feel there are many people pressuring others to be productive during this time, but so many people have been working non-stop for many years and this could be the rest and relaxation they needed. And that’s so valid and necessary. The idea of constantly achieving is exhausting too so I encourage people to just be in whatever way that makes them happy.

Photos: Courtesy of Layla Kardan