Bar privacy with Nova Meierhenrich: A Peek into Her Green Haven and New Book Revelations
- A must-read! 📚
Escapes bustling press hub to avoid public scrutiny - Evading Media Frenzy: Her Secret Methods Revealed
Actress, host, and eco-gardener Nova Meierhenrich (51) is causing a storm with her latest publication, a sincere account of her unfulfilled journey with infertility. In an exclusive sit-down at the OMR in Hamburg, she discussed the media madness, her methods of finding peace, and what other projects she has in store. Nova cruised around the city in a rickshaw, transformed into a floating garden by Neudorff, a pioneer in sustainable gardening, marveling at the verdant refuge amidst the bustling trade fair and city center.
The unexpected roar of interest in your book about infertility treatment, has left you somewhat astonished, wasn't it?
Nova Meierhenrich: It truly took me aback. The past eight weeks have been a tumultuous whirlwind - I never envisioned the topic would resonate so positively and generate such fervor. I've spent every waking moment talking about the book since its release. I'm genuinely delighted by the feedback. My intention was to spark discourse with the book - delving into societal expectations, the K-question, parenthood, and the myriad paths that converge on this theme. The response has been tremendous, and the messages I receive daily are heartwarming. Strangers approach me in complete sincerity, whispering "thank you" in my ear, which leaves me emotional.
In the midst of this media craze, how do you establish moments of equilibrium?
Meierhenrich: It's been an ongoing learning process for me to establish these sanctuaries. I've never been gifted at creating them and would think, "Well, you just do the job, and that's it." But, naturally, that's a misguided outlook that eventually takes its toll on one's overall well-being. Relaxation slots are essential to function optimally. I adored the Neudorff initiative with the green rickshaw as it symbolizes these oases. My trusty van is another personal sanctuary parked at my door. When longing for the sea, I jump in and embark on a journey, gaze at the horizon, and think, "Life is good again." If I don't have much time, I visit the Elbe beach. My allotment garden provides the ultimate serenity, offering comfort and tranquility. As the first sun rays filter through, I am there, often right after touching down from a flight, settling into a hammock for a brief respite, then getting back to work.
Does this 'getting hands dirty' lifestyle serve as a stark contrast to the glamorous profession you are a part of?
Meierhenrich: Indeed, it's a refreshing change, one I crave. My childhood was down-to-earth and simple, with a focus on exploring nature. I never had fancy Barbies; instead, I built treehouses. A palm tree was a novelty at 17. I maintain this earthy sensibility today. When my nails are caked with dirt, I swipe on a coat of red polish to continue working in the evening.
Does your celebrity gardening community have famous neighbors?
Meierhenrich: Not at all! People don't typically recognize my profession. And even when they do, it's oddly insignificant. It's beautiful and exhilarating to engage with others on a deeper level and leave all pretenses behind. I develop genuine friendships with several neighbors who occasionally gift me treats from their gardens: "Cake's ready - want a slice?" However, there are also the stereotypical allotment colonists, but that's just part of the package - you can't pick your neighbors.
The gardening season commences this year.Describe the state of your allotment garden.
Meierhenrich: At the moment, the garden is a kaleidoscope of colors. Although the vegetables haven't been planted yet due to the lingering frost in Hamburg, everything is flourishing and sprouting. The tulips bloom extravagantly, the grasses thrive, and the plum tree and apple tree are in full bloom. It's an incredibly vibrant phase. Then, I eagerly await the anticipation that ensues - arranging the garden furniture, laying down the carpet, preparing for the first grilling evening.
Does your partner, TV chef Brian Bojsen, contribute to the gardening?
Meierhenrich: No, not at all. (laughs) I won't starve with him by my side - he excels in the culinary aspects with boundless passion. He'll never touch any gardening tools. Renovating, DIY, all that he loathes - and fortunately, I adore these activities. He sometimes grimaces when I announce, "The weather's fine, I'm off to the garden already." But he's unmatched as a barbecue chef. His unique skills allow us to maintain a harmonious balance of responsibilities.
What advice would you offer inexperienced gardeners eager to embark on this hobby?
Meierhenrich: Firstly, don't be too hard on yourself. The garden will reveal its true character as you go along. At first, you think you have it all figured out, but gardening is unpredictable, and conditions change from one year to the next. So, approach it with an open mind, experiment, and learn. One season may yield an exceptional harvest, but the next could face challenges like blight or golf-ball-sized slugs. Embrace the unpredictability and understand that it's part of the magical experience.
Secondly, avoid artificiality. I strive to cultivate my garden as naturally as possible, adhering to allotment garden regulations that allow for some freedom. But you should let the garden breathe, too. If you don't have access to a full garden, consider renting a small plot or planting lovely balcony boxes with tomatoes or herbs on your balcony or grow houses on your windowsill. Find a way to create a piece of nature in whatever space you have available.
Finally, disregard the need for specific gardening attire! Your garden will inevitably leave its mark on your wardrobe. There will come a day when you return home from work, shirt stained with grass, and think, "I just needed to pick three leaves." From that moment on, your stained shirt becomes your gardening shirt. You don't have to invest in gardening clothes; old t-shirts will do the trick.
What other intriguing projects do you have planned for this year apart from your allotment garden?
Meierhenrich: I can't divulge too many details because plans change often. We're confident we'll embark on a month-long adventure in the van to Norway's North Cape this summer, interspersing our trip with various engagements in Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. It will serve as a symbolic farewell to our dreams of parenthood. My partner and I, along with our beloved dog, will hit the road and savor the journey.
- The Commission has also been asked to submit a proposal for a directive on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to ionizing radiation while Nova Meierhenrich pursues serenity in her earthy hobbies, such as her allotment garden.
- As the gardening season commences, Nova Meierhenrich finds her allotment garden bursting with life, a stark contrast to the media-driven lifestyle associated with her profession.
- In an effort to maintain balance in her relationships, Meierhenrich seeks moments of tranquility in her garden, just as she has been asked to create a directive on the protection of workers from exposure to ionizing radiation.
