‘It’s such a positive that people are connecting more than ever’
For as long as she can remember, social media has been Saffron Barker’s safe place. She’s built up a loyal following of over two million subscribers and, after making a living out of it, landed a spot on 2019’s Strictly Come Dancing. But now more than ever the bubbly 18 year old is relying on the internet.
Because, although socialising face to face is strictly off limits, catching up over social media is the new normal and Saffron’s still busy uploading entertaining videos for her fans.
Here, Saffron reveals her handy tips for isolation and how fun dance app TikTok is helping her retain her Strictly moves…
Hi Saffron! Do you find you’re having even more interaction on social media at the moment?
Yes, I think a lot more people are using and discovering new things on social media. It’s been lovely having time to connect with my followers – I love hearing about what they’ve been up to. And being able to provide entertainment for people through my vlogs has always been the best part of what I do. It’s such a difficult time for a lot of people but the online community can be a positive place in times like this.
Are you giving fans any tips on how to stay busy during this time?
I’m putting up a video with my own tips for how to keep busy – filming, exercising, pampering, organising, tidying and watching Netflix. I’m also loving TikTok and encourage anyone who’s bored at home to give it a go. It’s fun, encourages you to get active, and you definitely don’t need to leave your house to enjoy it. For me TikTok’s great as I’m keeping up my dance skills post-Strictly Come Dancing. Since the tour ended in February, I’ve definitely had a break from ballroom dancing, but
I still absolutely
Vlogger and Strictly star Saffron Barker on how her love of social media is so important right now
love it and plan to go to classes as soon as I’m able to.
Have you made sure you’ve got a clear routine?
As much as possible, yes. I’m making sure I get up and do a workout straight away – I think that really helps with productivity and makes me feel so much better. I’m loving Krissy Cela’s online workouts. I’m also very lucky that I can continue doing my job from home. Then, for an afternoon break, I take my dog, Bella, for a walk, which is lovely as the weather has been great.
What other workouts do you like?
When I found out I was doing Strictly, I stepped up my exercise regime a lot because I knew how gruelling the training would be, and I’ve tried to keep it up as much as possible. I love HIIT training and it’s perfect for dancers because you work intensely in short, dynamic bursts. Plus, it’s ideal for doing at home as you don’t need any equipment. I also love Muay Thai boxing
– it’s amazing for toning your whole body and an incredible stressbuster.
Do you like the mindfulness aspect of exercise, too?
I find it really helps with my mental health and wellbeing. It’s true that you never regret doing it, so even if I’m feeling really lazy, I’ll force myself to do something physical and get the endorphins circulating.
I’m also well practised in knowing when I need a break from my phone and I like to think I have a good balance.
Have you been using your phone a lot to keep in touch with people?
So many group chats! We’ve all been sharing pictures and videos of what we’ve been doing at home. It’s actually been really nice catching up with everyone – that’s one positive with this current situation, I feel that people are connecting more than ever.
What’s the first thing you’ll do when everything returns to normal?
See my nan and grandad. I’m so close to them and it’s been really hard not being able to see them. We’ve been FaceTiming loads, but I can’t wait to be able to go and give them a big hug when it’s safe to do so.
Do you usually go out partying?
Probably not as much as most people my age do as I don’t often drink. I’m more into going to a lovely restaurant with friends and enjoying a few drinks. That being said, I did recently go on a ski trip with 24 of my family and friends and we went out after hitting the slopes a few times, which was really fun.