Perfect Poise, Perfect Life
Bring your body into balance and revolutionise your life
By Noel Kingsley
Publisher Hodder Mobius
AVAILABLE HERE
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Two peaceful spots
Pool in North Woods, Hampstead.
Of the several lovely places we visited during last weekend there are some that emblazoned themselves on my mind more than others. A visit to Kenwood House in Hampstead owened by English Heritage was lovely, rewarding and culturally stimulating. Where else in the world can you view masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Gainsborough, Reynolds, Romney, Guardi and Canaletto for free without even paying an admittance charge? Fenton House, also in Hampstead, owned by the National Trust was equally stimulating and fascinating with its fine collection of keyboard instruments including harpsichord, virginals, Clavichords and spinetts.
While music and art provide me with immense amounts of pleasure, as a spectator, listener or as a participant in my humble attempts at violin and photography, there are other parts of me only satisfied by connecting with nature, by seeking solitude away from my busy client based Alexander Technique practice to be amongst ancient woodlands, on top of hills with distant views or in wild and overgrown dingley dells secreted away from the unknowing passer-by.
Two such places were real highlights of the weekend. Hampstead Heath in north London is well known for its views across the city, its great walks, botanical variety and even the swimming lakes. But the North Woods that lie just to the north of the main Heath are less well known and lying in a hollow is a placid pool surrounded by oaks. This is place does not attract many visitors, but it is so peaceful, a haven full of energy and life.
Although my hobby is photography; you may be aware that I specialise in black and white hand made pictures that I produce in my darkroom in the traditional manner; it may surprise you therefore that digital imaging is a foreign medium to me and I know nothing about it! However I took a few snaps with my Leica C-Lux camera which you can see two here.
Bluebells in woodland, Chilterns, Oxfordshire.
Monday Bank Holiday saw us out in the Chilterns walking in favourite areas, through woods, over hills, down winding lanes, past the windmill at Turville and past the most wonderful display of Bluebells you could ever hope to discover. Lying as a purple carpet they extended on and on, between the birches and oaks, grouped in their thousands as swathes.
It's just so good to get out into the country, get the air about you and use those muscles for the most pleasant of occupations away from the beaten track. I'm now sitting in my office awaiting another client who will arrive in a few minutes. I think back to the pool at Hampstead and the Bluebells in the Chilterns. They were there yesterday..... I suppose they are still there even when I'm not looking at them.... Mental note, must go back and visit again soon. :-)
