Holidays, BBQ’s, day trips, floaty Summer dresses, Birthday celebrations…there are so many things I love about this Season.
Last month, I started off with a very unique Birthday celebration for my Mum and Godsister. We had a heart warming Mother and daughter gut health mindfulness lunch, with a group of 6 of us which was hosted by Dr Sunni Patel. Dr Sunni Patel is a health coach with a PhD in risk factors for disease, and a specialist interest in Gut Health. He is also trained as a culinary medicine coach and aims to educate, entertain and spread the power of food nutrition and wellness. Our day started by sitting in a dimly lit calm room to gather our thoughts. Our senses were awakened with an elderflower spritz with lemongrass, apple and cinnamon followed by some canapés. We carried out a water colour painting session where we painted freely using 3 colours of our choice. Lunch was then served with a stunning green themed tablescape filled with herbs and infused water, created by none other than my Mum. Dr Patel explained beautifully about all the foods we were consuming and how they were beneficial to us. We started off with a take on the Tom Yum soup with a vegan gyoza. We were able to forage our own herbs into the soup with some very cute mini clippers. We then had a Thai inspired salad followed by a Malaysian curry with a poem that had been put into a poppadum, it was a such a beautiful touch. In between courses we had a grape granita with ginger syrup, which was served blindfolded with music to enhance the experience. My favorite was the desert – carrot halwa with pistachio cream, and baklava crumb, which contained no added refined sugar but tasted incredible. I came away feeling so satisfied and enlightened. The saying comes to mind, full belly full heart!
FIT FAM
Whilst aiming to continue being mindful with health and fitness throughout the Summer, I have really been enjoying Dash drinks. These are made by infusing sparkling water with real wonky fruit, which other places say no to. By accepting the misfits this brand are helping to fight food waste. The piece de résistance is zero calories, preservatives or added sugar. If you haven’t tried the new Grapefruit flavor then you must – its ultimately refreshing. With the kids being off school for 9 weeks, I might be adding a dash of gin in mine too!
As many of you know I am a huge fan of reformer Pilates. After having trained as a physio myself, I have seen firsthand how beneficial it can be. I had a large diastasis after my second child and after being committed to regular exercise for the last 9 months, I can finally say that it has healed up well. I was so pleased to hear that a new reformer pilates studio opened up in Banstead called Wellness Pilates. It’s a small studio with 6 beds, which actually is a good thing as it means the teacher is able to focus on individuals more easily. The interior is on point with a modern, fresh feel and a large changing area with a shower. They have various levels of classes. You will find me at the intermediate class, which is definitely one to get your heart pumping! The owner and founder Charlie Carvalho, who has nearly 10 years experience under her belt, challenges you but is also very hands on in her approach, making sure the alignment of your body is perfect. Finally, a studio that challenges you in the right way!
GRECIAN GODDESS
Trying to get into shape at one of the hottest classes in Surrey made me feel body confident on our recent trip to Cyprus. It was bittersweet as the reason for going was to attend my Great-Grandma’s 1 year memorial since passing. She was 109 so she lived a very long life. Her mother lived to 110, so if the genes are anything to go by then I’ve got a good chance! It was a beautiful day celebrating her life and catching up with family that I had not seen for years. We wanted a base to stay whilst we were there so thought Parklane Limassol was perfect. We usually stay in our family home or at the Four Seasons so thought we would mix it up a bit. We were recommended this hotel due to the kid’s facilities. It definitely did not disappoint. It had the most impressive kids club and water play area that I have ever seen. We booked the Family 2 bed Room but we were kindly upgraded to the family 2 bed suite. I’m not sure what the difference was but the balcony was huge. Unfortunately due to the heat wave rippling through Europe at the time, we were unable to enjoy it fully. I loved the Bulgari amenities in the bathroom, one of my favorite scents – Eau De Vert. The lack of bathroom door was a bit strange and too open plan for me. The room was impeccably clean, and for the first time I’ve ever encountered, they had enough hangers for our clothes for the entirety of our stay. We always start the holiday with room service to relax on the day we arrive. This was on point – everything was cooked to perfection and they had a great selection (unlike other European hotels that we have been to). I have to say overall the service was a bit hit and miss, they were a little slow at the breakfast buffet and by the pool but Nammos and LPM certainly made up for this. Our highlight was the gastronomic experience and service we had at LPM, which was utterly exquisite and highlighted the warmth of the Cypriot culture that we all know and love.
