Exotic Indulgence Wellness
Im Geraldine Merrill, a native Bristolian who was born and raised in Bristol, England. My exotic wellness journey was inspired by my windrush generation parents, who moved to the UK in the 1960s from Jamaica, British West Indies.
Living thousands of miles away from the land of wood and water didn’t prevent “bush tea” like Cersee, ginger, sorrel from finding its way on the shelves as well as various seasonings, exotic fruits, vegetables, jerk, mango, callaloo, avocado, yam and many more.
Their west Afrocentric approach to food and cooking was derived and influenced by their moroon heritage. Organic food, cooking from scratch, growing fruits and vegetables in the backyard was a way of life.
Growing up, I rebelled and followed fast food trends. It wasn’t until I had health issues that I became mindful of my eating habits and cooked my own meals.
Years later, I decided to take a cooking course at Orange Technical College, and baking and pastry at Lake Technical College to help and inspire others to be health conscious in their food choices.