The power of the mini-break
A couple of weeks ago, I found myself on the verge of ‘burnout’ as the youngsters now call it. Since exposing myself as a sex worker through my memoir, Unashamed I have grown accustomed to feeling exhausted and overwhelmed. However, this felt different.
My last holiday was in July 2023 when I spent five days on the beautiful island of Mykonos to celebrate my 40th birthday. I sacrificed a lot during my 30’s with holidays getting axed. The first half of my 30’s was all about rebuilding my life post domestic violence which included my finances that were left in tatters. Holidays were not a priority. The latter half was all about getting myself sober, setting up my holiday let and writing my book. I understand well that sacrifices need to be made when building businesses and investing in new projects. I see very clearly now that hard graft, persistence and sacrifice are all crucial elements that have got me to this point. But enough was enough and my body finally said ‘no – time to take a mini-break!’
Located on the South coast of England about a two hour drive from West London, The Nici is a little gem in the heart of Bournemouth. Awarded best new hotel in 2024 by Conde Nast Johansens, the hotel is situated right on the beachfront with fabulous sea views. It also comes with a dreamy spa, heated outdoor pool, cinema, delicious food, lots of attention to detail with cool retro-Miami style decorations and the friendliest staff. I practically crawled my way to the reception desk, with my body feeling the effects of my holiday drought. Upon check-in I was given a free upgrade to a stunning corner suite with large balcony and sea views. Given that I booked the most basic room with no view, the generous upgrade came as a welcome surprise.
As soon as I checked in, my phone was turned off and I went straight to the spa. I had pre-booked a 90-minute massage which was practically all I could think about that day. After decompressing in the sauna and a quick dip in the pool, I headed up to the relaxation room where I waited to be called for my massage. I was greeted by a very friendly massage therapist named Vicky. About half an hour into the massage, I finally began to feel my body relax. The overload of information, planning, worry and anxiety was slowly beginning to dissolve as I flickered in and out of a heavenly sleep.
When I finally checked into the room, I did not hesitate to sink into the King sized bed, spreadeagled while absorbing every ounce of the peace and quiet. I was so impressed by the hotel that I ended up extending my stay for an extra night. The running themes for my time away consisting mostly of fluffy dressing gowns, slippers, room service, breakfast in bed, walks along the beach, fish and chips at Harry Ramsden’s, sauna, steam room and lots of sleep.
Two days later feeling refreshed, recharged and ready to tackle anything, I returned to London feeling like a new and improved version of myself complete with an external glow. It made me realise just how important it is to have time off even if just for a short period. We may not feel like we can spare the time (I certainly didn’t) but the benefits in the long run are huge. My challenges were still waiting for me back in London as soon as I returned but my time away helped put things into perspective. It installed a new-found confidence in me and my ability to cope with life’s curve balls. Sometimes in life all we need is that short break away out of our usual routine, break our habits, break our thought patterns, try something new. There really is so much power in the mini-break.
To book your stay head to: The Nici