things I’m looking forward to doing in England this summer
For context, I’ve been spending 10 months of the year in Sri Lanka where I live with my partner Rash. This is the second summer I’ll be visiting England for a two month stint to (most importantly) see friends and family and host my Portugal retreat.
In the classic ‘grass is always greener’ trope, as the trip draws closer I get excited about doing the things I haven’t been able to, and seeing the people I couldn’t see.
So, if you’re spending summer in England like me, then here are a few things you could sprinkle into your summer plans. Ranging from completely free to more pricey.
Hampstead Heath Ladies Pond, London
This was a regular spot for me when I was living in London. With friends or solo it truly feels like you’re stepping back in time. Ladies lying on the grass sunbathing, reading fiction, tops off, dipping in the pond, doing a few laps, drying off - bliss. Plus there’s no phone signal!
Gardening with my Mum
My Mum has poured so much effort into her gardens over the last few years and since having a home and garden of my own (which is very far off being beautiful even with a huge amount of effort put into it) the clearing, the raking, the sweeping, the digging and the planting makes gardening such a mindful activity. It gets you outside, it gives you a clear task, hopefully something manageable to finish in a day or at least make good progress and can actually be quite hard work/good exercise! Combining this with spending time with my mum who loves being outside is something I’m so looking forward to.
HEART—TEMPLE community meet up!
After the retreat in Goa I knew I wanted to get everyone back together (and those who couldn’t make it). So I’m in the process of planning a community meet up in London. Sunday late-morning park yoga followed by a picnic, chats & hopefully some sun! This will most likely be on Sunday 9th August. Drop me a message, email or comment to let me know you’re interested and I’ll send all the information over asap.
Going to the cinema
Ok it may seem counterintuitive to spend time inside during the summer but we all know it’s not going to be 25 degrees and sunny for 2 months straight. There’s no cinema near where we live in Sri Lanka and it feels so homey to buy a ticket and a large popcorn and immerse yourself in another world for 2 hours.
Trying out the new yoga studio in Frome
A new studio has popped up in Frome, Somerset near where my Mum lives so I’m excited to take some time for taking classes with other teachers. I’m in Bali right now and have managed to go to classes almost every day (sometimes two!) and it’s felt so nourishing to be in a space held by another.
Testing new fun recipes
From sweet treats to alcohol-free nightcaps to delicious plant-based meals, I’ll be trying out some new fun things this summer, ever-inspired by my Pinterest food board. From espresso brewed over maple syrup, flaky sea salt, ice and oat milk, to jam and buttered toast cookie dough, to avocado chocolate mousse, to some of Radhi Devlukia’s delicious Ayurveda-friendly recipes in her book Joyfull, it’ll be a delicious summer of eating.
Getting through my summer reading list
Which currently consists of: Just Kids by Patti Smith, Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell (and then watching the film), What the Buddha Taught by Walpola Rahula, Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata and two new releases: Big Little Truths by Liane Moriarty (sequel to Big Little Lies) and Peck & Peck by Bonnie Garmus. I loved Lessons in Chemistry so I’m excited to read Bonnie’s second novel.
Self explanatory, dog-time is always a must.
BONUS: Hosting our sold out Portugal Retreat
Ok this had to be a bonus because it’s not in England. But a huge part of my two months in England will be preparing and finalising any planning for this retreat. Plus it’s something I’m super excited about and had to mention! 10 wonderful ladies joining myself and dear friend & chef Chloe in Colares on the Atlantic coast. Held at the intersection of nature, creativity and spirituality we gather for sea dips, yoga, delicious food & the intention to come back into our creative spirit. This retreat is sold out, but if it sounds like something you’d love then we have a surf & yoga retreat in Sri Lanka from 6-12 Feb 2027 with two spaces remaining.
Wishing you all a beautiful summer ahead!
Rosie x
I loved going to the ballet as a child with my Mum and my Aunty so I booked this for my Mum’s birthday present this year. It runs 23 Sept-3 Oct.
