This article was first published in the City Press.
We might have abandoned new-year-new-me resolutions, but we can’t afford to abandon the self-care movement, for it is the lifeline for love in all our relationships. One of the best things you can for your wellbeing is to immerse yourself deeply, in nature, where you can let your mind idle like a tree rustling to a gentle breeze.
Drive out of town for an hour to Magaliesburg, observe how green the highveld is from the summer rains and arrive to the tender hands of the staff at Valley Lodge where zebras roam freely, for a weekend stay, as I did. My itinerary included sundowners at the riverbed, spa treatment, picnic lunch by the riverbed, sundowners at the lookout lapa, a manicure just before checking out as well as breakfast and dinner served at the restaurant. Day visitors can visit the spa for a massage and or a manicure, or book a picnic lunch by the Magalies Riverbed, and or sundowners at the lookout lapa.
‘Would you prefer to picnic indoors because of the rain, sir, we also have a lovely lookout spot where we could set up for you?’
‘Please bring out the umbrella, the fold up chairs and table instead. I am very happy to have a rainy picnic by the river’ and luckily for me, the drizzle stopped shortly afterwards. Johnas our waiter for the stay, added blankets too so we could stay warm in the event the rain persisted, but it was suddenly humid. The boats lounging picturesquely about the river — for free use by guests and day visitors — were calling for me to idle on the river.
I launched one, let it float idly and I began to watch my thoughts float like the boat that carried me. There were birds singing and nesting on trees nearby, some even glided on the river to show off the strides in their wings, others gliding above the skies where they were still reflected in the water — noon so beautiful, it left me drowsy with romance. What is romance, but an idealised version of reality? And what is more ideal than the splendour of nature?
One could elevate the experience further with a hot air balloon ride, with prior arrangement and depending on the weather. Valley Lodge is a four-star establishment that offers a variety of activities from birdwatching, to walking trails, fly fishing, the convenience of being near the Cradle of Humankind and it boasts facilities like tennis courts, conference facilities, a chapel, braai area and rowing boats. The spa is complete with 6 private treatment rooms, a heated jet pool, a jacuzzi, and a gym. Their pool is beautiful for sunny days and all the rooms have private covered patios overlooking the greenery of the reserve and the river.
On your way back: After checking out at Valley Lodge, and on your way to the city, make sure to stop at Black Horse Brewery for lunch — order their Eisbein to go with their craft beer, and stroll through their lush gardens.
Whether alone or with a partner, go out and show yourself some love, don’t wait for someone else to do it for you. Be your own darling and continually celebrate the fact of life, in the face of so much death.