Living in London in your 20s is basically an extreme sport. One minute you’re saying “just one drink” after work, and the next, it’s 1 AM, you’re waiting for the night bus, and you’ve got a very energetic beagle waiting for his morning run in a few hours.
Trying to balance a buzzing social life, early morning routines, and not completely exhausting myself is an ongoing challenge. Here’s how I manage to keep up with London’s nightlife without completely sacrificing my wellness; or Clarkie’s morning exercise.
1. Choosing My Late Nights Wisely
Let’s be honest; London is full of temptations to stay out late. From rooftop bars to comedy clubs and impromptu pub crawls, there’s always something happening. I used to say yes to everything, but I quickly realised that not every invite is worth sacrificing sleep for.
Now, I have a rule: one or two proper late nights a week, max. The rest of the time, I opt for early dinners, cosy pub evenings, or meet-ups that don’t leave me dragging my feet the next day. Prioritising plans that align with my energy levels has made a massive difference.
2. The Magic of the Morning Reset
The one thing that keeps me from spiralling into chaotic, sleep-deprived London life? My morning runs with Clarkie. No matter what I got up to the night before, the sight of him excitedly wagging his tail at 7 AM makes it impossible to hit snooze.
Somehow, a morning run in the fresh air clears my head better than an extra hour of sleep ever could. It’s become my non-negotiable; whether it’s a quick jog along the Thames or a slower walk in the park, that time outside resets my body and mind.
3. Making Time for Recovery
Socialising and running on little sleep isn’t sustainable forever. So, I make sure to factor in rest and recovery days. If I’ve had a heavy night out, the next morning’s run is more of a gentle stroll with a coffee in hand.
Hydration, a good breakfast, and a slow start to the day mean I don’t completely wipe myself out. I’ve learned that balancing it all doesn’t mean doing everything at 100% all the time; it means knowing when to push and when to take it easy.
Final Thoughts
Balancing London’s social scene, personal wellness, and looking after Clarkie hasn’t been easy, but it’s doable with a bit of structure. I still love my nights out, but I’ve also learned to prioritise routines that keep me feeling good; physically and mentally.
The trick? Finding what works for you, setting some boundaries, and always making time for the things (and pups) that matter most.
