May Day & Hackney Half
Happy May Day!
It’s so nice to see the sun shining again, right? That’s what May Day is all about.
In the beginning, May Day was a Celtic festival called Beltane. This festival acted as the joyful fire-lit celebration that marked the midway point between spring and summer. People would dance around bonfires and generally rejoice in the fact that the cold and grey was behind them. This time would honour the awakening of life, growth, and the sun's strengthening power.
After these roots were laid down, came the May Pole. For me, I remember May Day celebrations around the May Pole with lots of fondness, and dizzy miscoordination! The practice of weaving ribbons around the pole has been a staple for centuries, symbolising community, fertility and the coming together of everybody in a pretty whimsical way! Towns and villages would crown a May Queen, and the dancing would often go on for hours of the day.
When we get to the late 19th century, May 1st took on a new meaning, representing International Workers' Day. This day revolved around advocating for workers' rights, rest, and the crazzzyyy idea that people deserve a break. Couldn’t agree more!
Following this, the first Monday in May was established as a public holiday in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland in 1978. And so that leads us to today, with the Early May Bank Holiday pencilled in every year.
But besides all its history and evolution, from fires to bunting, May Day has always been, and I’m sure will continue to be, about pausing and marking the turn of the season. It’s about the wonderful pleasure of realising that the world has gone green again and taking the time to actually enjoy that.
The ancient Celts were definitely right to stop everything and appreciate being alive! Maybe they just needed a good massage to go with it (😂😉). Happy May Day!
If you're taking on the Hackney Half Marathon, you've likely been putting in the miles, training hard, and focusing on race-day prep. But have you factored in recovery?
Serena is here to support you before and after the big day. Whether you're building up to the starting line or winding down after crossing the finish, a well-timed sports massage can make all the difference.
30 minute Sports Massage @ £45
Pre-Race Prep or Post-Race Recovery Session
Here's what a targeted 30-minute session can help you with:
Injury Prevention: Targets overworked areas to reduce the risk of strains and pulls.
Boost Circulation: Stimulates blood flow to prep muscles and aid recovery.
Reduce Muscle Tension: Releases tight spots and restores natural movement.
Support Wellbeing: Calms the body and mind for race day focus.
Aid Recovery: Helps flush waste and ease post-run soreness.
When to Get the Most Out of It:
Pre-race: 1–3 days before race day to warm up tissues, calm nerves and prep your body.
Post-race: 1–3 days after to support recovery, manage soreness, and re-balance your body.
→ Every session is tailored to your needs, whether you're after gentle recovery work or targeted release where it counts.
Ready to Book?
Available 14–19 May
Got questions? Message on WhatsApp (Serena: +44 7760 494320)