Thriving in the City

This country bumpkin has lived in London for nearly 10 years. I love this city but the pace and energy required can be relentless so I have had to learn how to make it work for me. Here are my top tips:

1.       Walk It!

I walk as much as possible. I’m sure there’s some science behind this (that vitamin D and those endorphins) but I find walking as much as possible, rather than solely taking the quickest route by tube helpful. I often walk part way home –from King’s Cross to Victoria – before catching the train from there. Sunlight, fresh(ish) air, and I now know central London pretty well without having to rely on le google, which humanizes the city I think by making it feel less anonymous.

2.       Local Community

With friends and colleagues spread far and wide around the city, I’ve found that having a local network helps to make London feel less transitory and more home. I’ve been part of a book club for 8 years and the friendships there are with people of different ages who I wouldn’t have met in my usual social circle. We have different viewpoints/experiences, and definitely some clashes of opinion!

3.       Yoga, yoga, yoga.

Going to classes in my local area, rather than just central studios, has a totally different vibe. There’s something really special about coming together to practice with familiar faces and a teacher who knows you and your practice. I was lucky to do my teacher training locally and my fellow trainees have been a real source of support and fun.

4.       Be a regular

I go to my local coffee shop several times a week. Having chats with the staff and regular customers is really nice and any excuse for a custard tart is a plus.

5.       Escape!

London is the greenest city in the world but sometimes parks just aren’t enough and I need to take myself off to the countryside proper. I’ve been doing day hikes and longer trips with Outdooraholics for several years. Embracing 15+ mile hikes followed by a well-deserved pint is sometimes just the ticket when the city gets too much. It’s also a reminder that there is life outside the London bubble.

6.       Say no

I’m definitely someone who gleefully fills up my diary with catch ups, events and appointments, only to burn out at the weekend and crave lazy days in my pjs. I’ve learnt that I need to pace myself and not say yes to everything. Introvert me needs some quiet nights in to recharge with pasta, bubble baths, yoga and a good book. Then I can fully enjoy going out-out.

7.       Be a tourist

On the flip side of saying no, it can be easy to get caught up in daily life and forget how amazing the city really is and all its opportunities. I’ve found that I need to put things in my diary though, otherwise it will just pass me by and that exhibition I’ve had my eye on has sold out. So if I see something I’d like to do, I go ahead and book in the fun times.

And my biggest tip of all…avoid Oxford Street at all costs!