Some things that made me smile in... March 2025
Including London birthday fun, soothing spa time and learning about Queen Nanny
If you’re a regular here, welcome back! If you’re new, this is my round up of some of the things that have made me smile over the past month. Please feel free to share in the comments anything that’s brought you joy too, whether big or small! Are you currently a free subscriber but would like to upgrade? You can do that here.
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How has your March been?
Some things is back from a month’s hiatus. Since the last issue at the end of January the clocks have changed and we are now officially in British Summertime here in the UK.
March is always a special month for me partly due to that seasonal shift – this is always my true start to the year – but also because it’s my birthday month and this year I really celebrated. I was thoroughly spoiled by my amazing friends over the course of my entire birthday week including a return trip to The Wolseley – this time for afternoon tea. After being in semi-hibernation over winter, the desire to cocoon myself away has lifted as the days get longer and I’ve been really enjoying getting out more over the past several weeks.
This March also marks the 3rd bookversary of Rest + Calm’s publication in the UK. I am still floored when I receive messages from people here and in other parts of the world – from New Zealand, Canada, the USA and more letting me know that they’ve enjoyed my book and that the practices within it have helped them.
Here are just a few more of the things that made me smile over the past month (and a couple of things from February too!)
Ironmonger Row
Located near Old Street in Islington and originally built as a public wash house and Victorian-style Turkish baths in the 1930s, Ironmonger Row baths were recently refurbished and have been transformed into a very inviting spa!
I went along for the thermal spa experience as part of a friend’s birthday celebration. As I wrote here, February was not the easiest of months for me. It wasn’t until I was there sitting in the sauna, feeling the tension drain from my muscles that I realised just how much I had needed this.
As well as saunas, within the thermal spa experience you’ll find aroma steam rooms, Turkish Baths (Tepidarium, Caldarium and Laconium), Ice Fountains, Monsoon showers, a bucket shower, plunge pool and a relaxation lounge. There’s also a constant supply of water and teas available, plus there are a range of separate treatments you can book if you like.
It also seems to be more affordable than comparable day spa experiences in London.
I had the best sleep that night and the relaxed feeling lasted for days afterwards. I certainly plan to visit again!
To find out more visit here.
Birthday fun at Bob Bob Ricard
I’m not normally a fan of surprises but this was a good one!
I’m terrible at planning things for my birthday so I often end up not doing anything. However, this year was different thanks to the very special family and friends I am lucky to have in my life.
After a few days of being completely spoiled by my wonderful friends with birthday treats, the week culminated with a surprise day out involving a fabulous meal at Bob Bob Ricard in Soho.
This was my first time at Bob Bob Ricard and it didn’t disappoint. I’d always been curious about the place where you can press a button for champagne, so while there of course it had to be done!
Everything about the experience was brilliant, from the food to the impeccable service and the ambiance. But the very best bit was who I was able to enjoy it with!
To everyone who made my entire birthday week so special this year (as I know some of you will be reading this), a Huge Thank You again and I love you all very much! ❤️
Hidden Histories with Nova Reid
Growing up in London, with the exception of a small amount about the civil rights movement in the USA, I didn’t learn about Black history at school, and certainly nothing directly in relation to my Jamaican heritage. What have learned to date is because of my parents and seeking out information for myself. Still, I know there are gaps in my knowledge not least because of erasure and stories being hidden.
So, when I heard about the new Hidden Histories with Nova Reid podcast, my interest was immediately piqued.
The subject of episode 1, Queen Nanny of the Maroons (who led Jamaica’s resistance against British colonial forces), is a significant figure who I knew a bit about but not a great deal. This episode was wonderful teaching me things I didn’t know and looking at the nuances of her decisions and actions.
I look hugely look forward to listening to all of the other episodes in this series. Next up in episode 2 is local Brixton heroine, Olive Morris. I’m in awe of what Olive achieved and the impact she made in her short life.
You can find out more about Hidden Histories directly from
on her Substack here
And listen to all 6 episodes on Audible (available globally) now.
Crol & Co
On a bright, sunny Sunday morning I ventured out to meet friends for brunch in south London.
Crol & Co in Bermondsey has very good coffee, an all-day menu and if you’re into craft beers you’ll find a wide range to choose from. (NB - In the evenings it turns into a bar, so there are beverages other than beer on the menu too.)
I really enjoyed the friendly, relaxed, cosy vibes and my filling breakfast bun!
If you’re in the area this is a lovely little spot for a catch-up over a bite to eat or some drinks.
Find out more about Crol & Co and their venues here.
Fussy
If Fussy sounds familiar it might be because you’ve seen them on Dragon’s Den.
I’d been looking for an effective eco-friendly deodorant for a while - it’s been trial and error - so, I was keen to give Fussy a try. I’ve been using the Coconut Milk starter pack and I’m impressed! For me, it’s genuinely worked so far and smells great!
I also learned that by sticking with this over twelve months I could reduce my carbon footprint by 81% compared to using regular deodorant. That appeals and encourages me to order some refills.
I should note here, like everything else in this round-up, this is not an ad or sponsored - I just liked this product so wanted to share.
You can find out more at getfussy.com.
Last but not least…
I was saddened to hear of the recent passing of Angie Stone – a favourite artist of mine. This month’s kitchen dance track is a true classic:
Over to you:
UPCOMING OPPORTUNITIES TO PRACTICE YOGA WITH ME:
In-Person:
Rest + Restore, Saturday 5 April 3.30-5pm at Embody Wellness, Vauxhall. Find full details and book here.
Hatha Flow, Wednesdays 9.30-10.30am at Yoga Point, Brixton. Book here.
Wake-Up Hatha Flow, Thursdays 9.30-10.30am at MIND Yoga & Pilates, Forest Hill. Book here.
Online:
Not able to join me in-person? There’s now two years’ worth of yoga and meditation practices from me here on Substack in The Reset and A Peaceful Pause.
Try my latest on-demand class - a yin yoga practice - available on the YogaEasy (formerly EkhartYoga) platform here.
Turkish Baths look amazing. I will definitely look them up. I was at the Turkish Baths in Harrogate at the weekend, as it happens and can recommend that experience whole heartedly, if you're ever in the area.
That sounds like an amazing birthday! The Bermondsey Crol & co isn’t too far from where my son lives so I will have to try it out. 💜