May has been a spectacular month on the Isle of Harris with unseasonably warm weather and so much sunshine and calm winds. It has been wonderful to be outdoors so much and to see the beautiful colours of Harris in the sea. The bays area where I now live offers so much as well and is often overlooked. Gorgeous coves, rocky inlets, and if the wind is in the right direction, it can be more sheltered than the west side of the Isle of Harris, where all the beaches are. I have been heading out in my kayak at every opportunity, and in May in the opportunities seemed endless.

The calm, low-wind mornings meant I was often out before anyone else was up. It’s a quiet area anyway, but at 7 am, there is usually just me, some seals, and the birds. This beautiful calming of the senses occurs when there are no sounds except for nature. Winds fly low across the water in front of me, and seals follow me, curious as to what is happening. The island offers respite and healing in so many ways. After a difficult winter, spending time in Manchester and after the passing of my mum, it is just what I needed. Quiet, gentle, calming and being out in nature.