I spent my birthday alone last week, something I’ve never done before. I wasn’t sure it was the right decision until I landed at the Beaverbrook Hotel just outside of London. I’ve never experienced a hotel that felt more like me (or maybe the highest version of me). This place is a dream for the book lovers, nature enthusiasts, and romantics. I was especially charmed by the stacks of vintage books on every windowsill and tabletop in my room. I had peaceful views of the walled garden from bed. And there’s no quicker way to my heart than an extra deep freestanding tub—after all, a Pisces recharges best in water.
The only thing I truly envisioned for my birthday was a slow, indulgent day at the spa. I had a lazy morning, ordered room service, at noon it was time for my not-so-relaxing dry brushing and massage treatment—but it left my skin feeling as soft as the day I was born. Most spas lean towards a sterile and neutral aesthetic, so I really appreciated how Beaverbrook’s spa felt vibrant and full of life. I was mesmerized by the corridor leading to the treatment rooms and relaxation area with blue and green ceramic tiles and a colorful leaf-patterned stained glass ceiling. I took advantage of the sauna and pools all afternoon.
In the evening, I journaled and wrote out my manifestations for the year ahead. It was the perfect balance—solitude without feeling isolated. Also, the entire hotel staff knew it was my birthday, so I received plenty of attention. It was a day of reflection and I just felt a lot of gratitude for my life and the experience I was having. I’ve stayed in so many beautiful hotels, but this one captured a whimsical, healing, earthy energy I’d love to live in 24/7.
I did wonder whether I would feel lonely. I often get requests for tips on traveling alone without feeling lonely, but that’s never my goal when I travel solo. Sometimes, that’s just a natural emotion that arises, even though I typically enjoy my time alone. There were moments when I couldn’t help but drift back to last year when I spent my birthday with my ex-boyfriend. I’m not afraid of those feelings when they come up because I’m only human! I can observe them, journal about them, and let them go. I focus on what I can appreciate about the moment I’m in, knowing that one day, I’ll experience it with someone else. But for now, I’m grateful for all the things I get to experience on my own—it is a privilege.
Aside from entering the final year of my 30s this year, I’m also in my personal 9-year in numerology. I had an enlightening numerology reading last spring with Janine Slome that was gifted to me by a friend. You calculate your numerology by adding up each individual digit of your birthdate. For me, it’s 3-6-2-0-2-5 = 18, and then 1+8 = 9. The 9 year is all about endings, reflection, and preparing for a rebirth or new beginning. Similarly to eclipses, she told me anything that falls away from my life this year—to just let it because it's not meant to be in my life. So, in honor of my impending rebirth, I’m reflecting on the things I’d like to make peace with this year and leave behind.