We have lived in West London for many years and yet until now had never become members of Kew Gardens. There always seemed so many other things to do and places to go, that we were never sure we would take full advantage of it. This year, perhaps as a result of our recent visit to the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens in Cape Town, we decided to take the plunge and become members. This already feels like one of the best decisions we have made this year. It means we can come and go into the gardens as often as we like. As new members we were excited to make our first visit last weekend to see the Orchid Festival. This was an absolute treat. Huge glass houses filled with orchids and other botanical displays inspired by the biodiversity of Costa Rica were exactly what was needed on a chilly February day. Mooching around the gardens through carpets of crocuses and clumps of perky daffodils was very peaceful. The pathways are lined with ancient, gnarled trees which lead into quiet corners. There may be many visitors but the scale of the gardens absorbs them somehow.
Yoga is something I discovered during lockdown and have continued to ‘dabble’ with ever since. This has been a really helpful practice. I have found it both grounding and and calming and have often turned to it when feeling a little uneasy, or on edge. All of my yoga until now, had been solitory, at home, and in front of a screen. That was until I attended an early morning flow session at a beautiful new studio called The Yoga Bar in Richmond. Starting the day with an hour focusing on the breath and movement with the attention of a gently encouraging teacher was blissful. The moment I stepped off the busy street and climbed the stairs to the studio I knew I was in a nourishing space. Seeking to live well in the city is something I am always striving for and this calming start to an otherwise ordinary day was a gift.
Wishing you a happy and calm week.
