In a new video, Caitriona Balfe is spending her day the way we’d like to be spending our time social distancing: on the beach, alone, reading poetry. The footage of the Outlander star was filmed back in February, months before the concept of quarantines and lockdowns had even crossed our minds, but now, the clip of Balfe in solitude is even more relevant.

The short film was shot by photographer and director James Houston—an old friend and frequent collaborator of Balfe’s—in L.A. In it, the actress runs barefoot on the sand, laughing with the wind blowing in her hair.

“Shooting Caitriona is always such a wonderful and rewarding experience,” Houston tells BAZAAR.com. “She is a dear friend and a true natural beauty. Even though her star has risen over recent years as a respected actress, she has remained the same grounded and humble girl I met years ago. I loved this shoot of her because it showcases her timeless beauty. I chose to take her to the ocean with minimal styling, hair, and makeup to capture an intimate, raw portrait of her.”

In the background, Balfe narrates the poem “He Wishes for the Cloths of Heaven” by W. B. Yeats, which was a collaborative choice made by both the actress and director. “After I directed this piece for Caitriona, I was thinking about what to put behind the visuals,” Houston explains. “I know Caitriona is well read and loves poetry, so rather than just use a music track, I asked her to send me a few of her favorite poems. I chose W. B. Yeats as it just felt right for Caitriona and the visuals. After recording her reading the poem (which only took two takes), we added the sounds of the ocean and birds. I really love the result.” [Source]