Although research takes up a lot of my time, I think it’s important to keep a balance with interests outside of work. For me, that often means finding activities that give me space to switch off and recharge.
Cycling is a big part of that. Sometimes it’s just a short ride to get around, other times it’s longer trips where I can clear my head and take in the surroundings. Swimming is another favourite, especially open water swimming when the conditions allow — there’s something very grounding about being outdoors in the water, away from screens and routines.
Music is also a constant. I enjoy playing piano when I get the chance, and it’s a very different kind of focus compared to research or coding. Writing and journaling play a role too, helping me reflect, stay organised, and track the progress of different goals over time.
I’ve recently moved to Australia with my partner and am in the process of settling into life here while planning the next steps in my career. In the meantime, I’ve found that these activities — whether it’s cycling, swimming, music, or writing — provide structure and perspective that make the rest of life a little easier to navigate.
Cortical Chaos 