Birthday Energy: A Personal Tradition of Joy

Not everyone likes to celebrate their birthdays. Over the years, I’ve learned not to be pushy about it and to let my loved ones take the lead on what they want to do. Depending on the person, I might still nudge a little and organize something—even something small—but inside, I’m always a bit perplexed by the decision not to celebrate.

And to be clear, by “celebrate,” I don’t mean anything elaborate or over-the-top. I’m not expecting them to organize fireworks and a champagne fountain for their special day (although, I would be totally into that). I’m talking about doing something just a little out of the ordinary to mark the day: a movie night, a casual lime, a slice of cake, a special meal. Something that acknowledges that this day—your day—is worthy of pause and intention.

I’m the complete opposite. I can stretch my birthday across the whole month. Weeks after the actual day, I’ll still be down to do a “birthday thing.” I’m out of the country on the date? No problem. We’ll celebrate when I get back. My wish is that I always have the ability to celebrate my birthday in a way that feels joyful and loving: showering myself with self-love and soaking up good energy from the people around me.

The last few birthdays have felt extra special. Maybe it’s because, during the pandemic, we had to celebrate from a distance. The birthdays that followed—where we could finally gather again—hit differently. The energy was electric. There was something deeply felt about being in the same space again, sharing food, laughter, music. Every birthday lime felt like a full-blown fête. I guess it’s true what they say about absence making the heart grow fonder—or to remix the saying: after the lockdown, the lime sweeter.

Last year, my Twinsta and I had a beautiful birthday. It started with a private morning yoga session (shoutout to our lovely teacher Isoke from the Well Being Way, who even brought us vegan cupcakes!). The day flowed into a long, laughter-filled afternoon and evening with friends, delicious food, great music, and plenty dancing!

And after all that? The perfect wind-down: pizza, cake, and a movie night at home. Looking back at the photos, I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. The people who showed up for us, who brought their love and time and presence, who helped set the tone and vibe for the day—from arranging décor and cocktails to making sure everything ran smoothly with the restaurant staff to simply being there—I’m just so, so thankful.

And now, my birthday is almost here again.

As I reflect on the past year, I’m thankful for every moment that has brought me back to this point. This is going to be another beautiful celebration, one that hopefully includes sun, sea, laughter, and that radiant feeling of being surrounded by people I love. And I know more moments of joy await when I return home and continue the celebrations with family and friends.

I’m sharing a few photos from last year’s birthday in the video below, along with a really touching speech from one of my lovely friends.

I hope you enjoy the video. And more than that, I hope it’s a reminder to take time—on your next birthday, or any day that feels like a milestone—to celebrate your beautiful, vibrant life. Whether it’s a beach day, a quiet dinner, or dancing till your feet hurt, make space to mark the moment.