Sunday, August 31, 2025

Walking Through the Weight, Rising Into the Week

Sunday morning began bright and early. I laced up my shoes, packed sandwiches and brewed coffee for my cousins and uncles, and we set out for our morning walk. The air was crisp, the sky soft with promise, and the company exactly what I needed. After a heavy Saturday, where emotions felt tangled and overwhelming, this walk became a balm. Movement, conversation, and shared silence helped me release some of what I’d been carrying.

There’s something powerful about connection. Just being with people who care, who listen, who show up, it lightens the load. I’m grateful for that kind of support. It doesn’t fix everything, but it reminds me I’m not alone in the rising.

The rest of the day was quieter, but purposeful. I spent time brushing up on my skills, preparing for the week ahead. Upskilling has become a daily rhythm, an act of self-investment, a way to stay sharp and open to possibility. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it.

By afternoon, I allowed myself to slow down. I rested, let my body unwind, and gave my thoughts space to settle. These quiet moments before sleep are sacred, where reflection meets release, and I gather myself for what’s next.

Today reminded me that healing and growth often happen side by side. That even after a heavy day, there’s still room to move, connect, learn, and rest.

~Nerusha

Saturday, August 30, 2025

Saturday – A Brush with Fragility

The day began on such a beautiful note, an early morning walk with family along the promenade. There’s something so grounding about walking side by side, sharing light conversations, soaking up the crisp morning air, and then pausing over coffee and warm hot cross buns. It was simple, wholesome, and filled with connection, the kind of start that makes you grateful for life’s gentle moments.


But life has its way of shifting in an instant. On my way home, what should have been an ordinary drive turned into something deeply traumatic. A car came speeding down a bend in the oncoming lane, straight toward me. With traffic on my right and cars moving steadily on my left, I had only seconds to act. Somehow, by pure instinct and a small gap opening at just the right time, I swerved and managed to avoid what could have been a devastating collision.


My heart pounded, adrenaline surged through me, and for a few terrifying moments, I couldn’t shake the thought of what might have been. It shook me to my very core. By the time I reached home, I was overwhelmed, tears, fear, gratitude, and disbelief all rolled into one. It felt like a near-death experience, the kind you replay in your mind again and again, unable to press stop.


I found myself turning to something familiar to calm my racing thoughts, I began cleaning, almost mechanically, as if scrubbing and tidying could wash away the replay of that morning. It helped a little, grounding me in the ordinary when my emotions were anything but. I didn’t have the words to speak to anyone at the time, so I carried it within me, letting it sit heavy in silence.


Tonight night, I choose stillness. An early bed, deep breaths, and a quiet prayer for protection. I remind myself that tomorrow is always another chance to rise, to begin again, and to hold gratitude even in the wake of fear.


Life reminded me of its fragility today, and in that, the importance of resilience, of finding ways to steady myself even when shaken.


~Nerusha 

Friday, August 29, 2025

Friday Reflections

Fridays, to me, are meant for winding down, tying up the loose ends of the week, and preparing myself to step into the weekend with clarity. That’s exactly how I shaped my day finishing off the admin that always seems to linger, dedicating time to some upskilling, and running those errands that never quite fit into the weekdays. It was a full day, but it felt purposeful, each task checked off with the intention of closing the week strong.


The evening unfolded more gently. I spent it with a loved one, sharing dinner and supporting their extracurricular activities. I’ve come to realize that sometimes love isn’t about grand gestures or big moments, it’s about holding space for the people in our lives, encouraging them in their own passions, and being present as they step forward.


There’s something deeply grounding about ending a week not only with my own accomplishments but also by showing up for someone I care about. It’s a reminder that resilience isn’t just about our personal journeys, it’s also about the quiet strength we bring into the lives of others.


~Nerusha 

Thursday, August 28, 2025

A Day of Replenishment

The day started early, but with the chill in the air and the clouds hinting at rain, I chose not to tempt a cold. Instead, I listened to what my body was asking for, rest, recovery, and gentleness. I spent the day at home, keeping warm, focusing on my coursework and practicals. I took it all at my own pace, learning where I could, pausing often to simply rest and let my body catch up with me.


Dinner was light and nourishing, a simple vegetable meal as I was fasting. I wasn’t feeling a hundred percent, so instead of pushing myself to attend temple, I allowed myself to rest in. Healing sometimes requires saying no to even the things we love most.


Later, I shared dinner with a loved one before turning in early for the night. These moments, quiet, simple, restorative, carry so much weight in my heart. They remind me that healing is not only about medicine and rest, but also about love, nourishment, and presence.


Grateful for the space to replenish, to let go of the rush, and to lean into stillness. Healing days are just as important as the busy ones.

~ Nerusha

Wednesday, August 27, 2025

Listening to My Body

I woke up this morning with a bit of a sore throat and not feeling my best. Still, I laced up my shoes and went for a walk, hoping the fresh air would help. By the end of it, I knew I needed to be gentle with myself, some meds to soothe my throat, and most importantly, rest to keep it from getting worse. My body was speaking clearly, and I’ve been learning to listen, sometimes the most productive thing we can do is pause, soften, and give ourselves some much-needed TLC.


I had planned to get through some upskilling and admin work, those tasks that never seem to end, but I gave myself permission to take it slowly. I worked at my own pace, resting in between, reminding myself that healing and progress can happen side by side if we let it.


Later in the evening, a loved one brought me dinner. Such gestures, though simple, occupy the biggest space in my heart. There’s something incredibly comforting about sharing a quick meal at the end of a long day with someone who cares, it soothes the body, calms the mind, and reminds me that I don’t have to do this journey alone.


Even though I was still unwell, my heart was overflowing with gratitude. Gratitude for the kindness, for the love that shows up in quiet ways, and for the reminder that healing isn’t just physical, it’s also in how we allow ourselves to be supported.

~ Nerusha

Tuesday, August 26, 2025

Comfort in the Familiar

I woke up today feeling a little under the weather, low on energy and not quite myself. But instead of letting the heaviness linger, I decided to step outside and take a walk. Sometimes the smallest actions, just moving your body, breathing in the fresh air, shift your mood in ways you don’t expect.

What really lifted me though, was meeting a dear friend for coffee and breakfast. There’s something so comforting about being around people who just get you. No explanations are needed, no masks to wear, just ease, laughter, and presence. It was exactly what I needed, a reminder that I don’t always have to carry everything on my own.


The rest of the day turned out to be surprisingly productive. I focused on my photography and admin, sent out some applications, and then a pleasant surprise came my way. An ex-colleague reached out about a position at his company and offered to submit my CV. These quiet acts of kindness never go unnoticed. They carry a special meaning for me, a gentle reassurance that I’m not walking this journey alone.


Through this period, I’ve been overwhelmed by the goodness and kindness shown by those around me, family and friends checking in, lending a hand in small but meaningful ways, and just showering love from all angles. It touches me deeply. Support, care, and genuine connection are the anchors that hold me steady in uncertain times.


I ended the day with a grateful heart, reminded once again that resilience is never built in isolation, it grows in the presence of love, kindness, and community.


~Nerusha

Monday, August 25, 2025

When the Clock Feels Louder Than the Challenge

Monday arrived with another tech assessment looming, and I could already feel the weight of it before the sun came up. Sleep was restless, my mind replaying scenarios and trying to plan for every unknown. The short turnaround time didn’t help, less time to prepare, more pressure to deliver. Still, I woke up early, gathered my focus, and dove straight in.


It wasn’t that the questions were impossible, in fact, I understood what needed to be done. But the ticking clock changed everything. It’s incredible how much time, or the lack of it, can distort performance. I realized something about myself today, I thrive when I can explore the problem fully, examine the angles, and create a thoughtful solution. These rapid-fire assessments, though, reward speed and efficiency above all else. It makes me wonder, have we reduced problem-solving to a race? Are we valuing the finish line more than the depth of thinking it takes to get there?


I can’t help but question the box we are all asked to fit into. Each of us thinks differently, solves differently, creates differently. Yet, assessments often reward the quickest hands rather than the sharpest minds. Is it wrong to need more time? Is it wrong to care about the “how” and not just the “what”? Maybe this is just my reflection, but it feels like we sometimes risk losing the human element in the process.


By the end, I did what I could. It wasn’t perfect, in fact, I felt a little defeated knowing I had more to give but not enough time to show it. But life doesn’t stop for one challenge. So, I shifted gears, turned my energy to the things that keep me grounded, my photography, my blog, sending out applications, and carving out time to plan my next round of learning. I even found space to reconnect with a friend, which reminded me that life is bigger than any one test.


Some days this uncertainty feels heavy. But deep down, I hold onto one belief, what’s meant for me will never pass me by. This journey might not make sense right now, but one day it will.


~ Nerusha

 

Sunday, August 24, 2025

A Sunday of Goodbyes and Gratitude

 The weekend slipped by faster than I wanted, and before I knew it, it was time for my sisters to leave. Sunday morning began at the airport with breakfast together, one last meal, one more chance to laugh and hold onto those moments before their flight. Watching them go was bittersweet; there’s always that pang of sadness when family parts ways. Yet, beneath it all was this overwhelming sense of gratitude. We were together, we connected, and even though life feels different now without Ma, her love still lives in us. It’s present in our conversations, our laughter, and the way we hold onto each other a little tighter. That is her gift to us, unbreakable bonds that continue to carry us.

The rest of my Sunday was quieter, spent immersed in assessments and work that needed my focus. It was a shift from the warmth of the morning to a more task-driven afternoon, but I welcomed the balance. The day ended beautifully, with dinner shared with a loved one, good food, meaningful conversation, and that deep sense of calm that comes when you know you are supported and loved.

As I closed the day, my heart was full, thankful for the people who show up, for family, for friends, and for the love that softens even the hardest goodbyes.


~Nerusha


Saturday, August 23, 2025

Soulful Saturday: Sunshine, Markets & Memory-Making

Saturday began with intention and excitement, an early start, packed bags, and a plan to explore. By 7 a.m., my sisters and I were on the road, ready to soak in the day. Our first stop, the Shongweni Farmers Market in Hillcrest. It was everything we hoped for vibrant stalls, delicious food, and the kind of atmosphere that invites you to slow down and simply enjoy.

We wandered through the market, coffee in hand, sampling treats and browsing handmade goods. The sunshine wrapped around us, and the laughter flowed easily. My sisters loved the experience, and I loved watching them take it all in. These moments unrushed, joyful, and rooted in connection are the ones I hold close.

The afternoon unfolded gently. We explored Fig Tree Farm and Camp Orchards, letting the calm of nature and open spaces guide us. It was a relaxing stretch of the day, no agenda, just presence. The kind of afternoon that reminds you how healing it is to be outdoors, surrounded by beauty and the people you love.

After returning home and resting for a bit, we headed out for dinner at Sibaya. The evening was soft and grounding, good food, shared stories, and the comfort of being with loved ones. It wasn’t just a meal, it was a celebration of togetherness.

As I reflect on the day, I feel full, in heart, in spirit, in gratitude. It was soulful and simple, and exactly what I needed. Time with family, laughter in the sunshine, and the quiet joy of being present.

~Nerusha

Friday, August 22, 2025

A Day of Sunrise, Spirit, and Sisterhood

 The day began bright and early with a walk along the promenade, one of my favorite rituals, made even more special by sharing it with my sisters. We watched the sunrise stretch across the ocean, golden light dancing on the waves, and took in the stillness that only early morning offers. Coffee followed, of course, warm cups in hand, soft conversation, and the kind of laughter that feels like home. It was a gift to share with them what I often experience alone, the quiet beauty of beginning the day with intention.

Today held deeper meaning. It was my Ma’s prayer, an observance in her honor after her passing. We spent the morning preparing for it, grounding ourselves in reverence and reflection. There’s something sacred about these moments, where memory meets ritual, and love continues to echo through the spaces she once filled. The prayer brought a sense of peace, a gentle reminder of her presence still woven into our lives.

The rest of the day unfolded softly. We explored Ballito, indulged in a bunny chow (as one must when in Durban), and did a bit of shopping to seal the afternoon. It wasn’t rushed, it was restorative. A balance of movement and rest, spirit and joy.

Later that evening, we gathered around for card games, laughing, teasing, bonding. It was lighthearted and full of warmth, the kind of togetherness that fills you up in ways you didn’t know you needed. As sleep gently took us, I reflected on the fullness of the day.

It was beautiful. Not because everything was perfect, but because it was real. Shared. Sacred. And I am so deeply grateful.

~Nerusha

Thursday, August 21, 2025

Journey to Familiar Shores

The day began in the stillness of early morning, 3:30 a.m., eyes barely open but heart already awake with anticipation. By 4:30, my sisters and I were packed, ready, and on the road to Durban. There’s something both daunting and exhilarating about driving before sunrise, the quiet hum of the engine, the open road stretching ahead, and the darkness gently giving way to light.

Our first stop was a non-negotiable, coffee. That first sip, warm and grounding, marked the beginning of a journey not just across provinces, but into memory, connection, and renewal.

As we drove, I found myself mesmerized by the changing sky. Nature never ceases to amaze me, the way the deep, inky black of night slowly transforms into a canvas of fiery orange, soft yellows, fading greens, and streaks of blue. The moon and sun briefly sharing the sky, passing the baton from night to day. It felt sacred. A reminder that beauty is always unfolding, even in transition.

We stopped along the way to stretch, refresh, and grab a bite. Roadworks slowed us down, but they didn’t dampen the spirit of the trip. In fact, they gave us time to reminisce, sharing stories, laughing at old memories, and soaking in the natural beauty around us. The journey itself became a moment to treasure.

As we neared Durban, a sense of familiarity washed over me. The landscape, the rhythm, the feeling of home. I was excited, not just to be back in my space, but to experience it anew with my sisters. We were tired, yes, but still buzzing with the energy to explore, connect, and make new memories.

The evening was soft and grounding, dinner with family, shared stories, and the comfort of being together. It wasn’t just a road trip. It was a return to self, to belonging, to the kind of joy that only comes from shared journeys and open hearts.

~Nerusha

Wednesday, August 20, 2025

Fresh Starts and Familiar Roads

 Midweek arrived with a gentle nudge to pause and reset. I had an early 8 a.m. hair appointment, and my sister joined me for coffee and breakfast beforehand, a soft start to the day, filled with laughter, warm mugs, and the kind of conversation that feels like home.

Sometimes self-care isn’t about grand gestures, it’s about carving out space in the chaos to do something that feels therapeutic. There’s something about a fresh look that lifts your spirit. It’s not just about appearance, it’s about energy. About feeling hopeful again. About looking forward to what’s next with a little more lightness. That’s exactly what this morning gave me.

The rest of the day was spent preparing for my drive back home. I checked the vehicle, packed up, said my farewells, and made sure everything was in order. It’s always a mix of emotions, leaving behind the comfort of familiar spaces while stepping back into the rhythm of what’s waiting.

What made this trip different was having my sisters join me. Their presence was heartwarming, comforting, and exactly the support I needed. There’s something deeply reassuring about shared journeys, knowing you’re not navigating the road alone.

As night falls, I tuck myself into bed with a quiet anticipation. A little nervousness lingering, long drives always carry that edge, but beneath it was a calm knowing, we’d be okay. We were together. And that made all the difference.

~ Nerusha

Tuesday, August 19, 2025

In the Heart of It All

The day began with intention, there was a lot to accomplish in a short space of time. My sisters and I spent the morning tending to matters related to our late Ma’s estate, visiting banks, gathering documentation, navigating the quiet complexities that come with closing chapters while still holding them close. It’s a process that asks for patience, clarity, and emotional strength. And I’m grateful I didn’t have to walk it alone.

Being home is always busy. There’s movement in every corner, tasks to complete, conversations to hold, memories to revisit. But in the midst of the chaos, there’s a deep sense of belonging. A comfort in knowing that I’m surrounded by people who understand, who support, and who show up. That kind of presence is something I never take for granted.

This week at home has been soul-enriching. It’s reminded me of the importance of pausing, of reconnecting, of allowing myself to be held. I didn’t realize how much I needed it until I was in it, until the laughter, the shared meals, and the quiet moments filled the spaces I hadn’t noticed were empty.

Yes, there’s a lot waiting for me when I return, projects, responsibilities, goals still unfolding. But this time with family was part of the process too. It was healing. It was grounding. And it was necessary.

~Nerusha

Monday, August 18, 2025

A Monday Rooted in Gratitude

Monday morning began slowly and gently, the way I wish more Mondays could. My sister and I decided to treat ourselves to breakfast at Jules on Jarvis, a quaint little spot in Berea. Over coffee and a lovely meal, we caught up, laughed, and just enjoyed being in each other’s company. These unhurried moments, where time feels like it stretches a little longer, are such a gift.


The rest of the day unfolded with errands and a bit of shopping, nothing rushed, just going at our own pace. Later, the excitement was building for a dinner out with my best friend. A simple ladies’ night, but those are often the best, filled with conversation, laughter, and the comfort of being fully yourself in the presence of people who truly know you.


I’ve come to appreciate these quieter days, the ones that don’t shout but gently remind me of the power of connection. They ground me, bring me back to myself, and remind me of what truly matters. I miss my ma deeply, her absence is always felt, but I hold on to what she instilled in me. She gave me a home, a family rooted in love and togetherness, and for that, I am eternally grateful.


~Nerusha

Sunday, August 17, 2025

A Sunday of Sunshine & Gratitude

Sunday began with a refreshing walk along the Gonubie beach boardwalk. The sun was out, the coastline stretched endlessly in front of me, and there was such a calmness in the air. I found myself slowing down, taking it all in, the shimmer of the ocean, the rhythm of the waves, the beauty of the world that often goes unnoticed in the busyness of life. These are the moments I hold close, and I am so grateful to experience them alongside family.


The rest of the day flowed in such a beautiful rhythm, shopping with my sister, then easing into a slow afternoon spent with friends and their little ones. There’s something so pure about being around kids, their laughter, their boundless energy, and the way they remind us to be present in the moment. We let ourselves just be, immersed in their joy and wonder, soaking up the simplicity of that special time together.


It wasn’t a day of ticking boxes or racing through tasks. It was a day of connection, of laughter, of sunshine, and of gratitude. A reminder that fullness doesn’t always come from doing more, but from being present in love and in the company of those who matter most.

~Nerusha 

Saturday, August 16, 2025

A Saturday of Connection & Simple Joys

My Saturday began bright and early with a 7am yoga class I attended with my sisters. There’s something so special about moving and breathing in unison, sharing the practice together. It wasn’t just about the poses or the stretches, it was about that quiet bond, that unspoken connection that deepens when you do something meaningful side by side.


Afterwards, we treated ourselves to breakfast at Lavender Blue, tucked away in the countryside. The fresh morning air, the farm-style atmosphere, the chatter of people starting their weekends, and the comfort of delicious food, it all came together so beautifully. There’s something about the countryside that slows you down, nudges you to simply be present, and fills you with gratitude for life’s simple pleasures.

The evening unfolded in the warmth of family. We prepared for a braai, lit the fire, and soon everyone gathered around the braai stand. The glow of the flames matched the glow of the conversations, stories of the past, moments of laughter, memories both old and new taking shape as the night went on. These are the moments that remind me of what really matters.

It’s in the togetherness, the reminiscing, the shared meals, and the presence of loved ones that life feels purposeful. In between all the uncertainties and the daily grind, these simple joys become anchors. They ground me, they fill me, and they remind me that even on this journey of change and resilience, connection is the heartbeat of it all.

~ Nerusha

Friday, August 15, 2025

Chasing Lighthouses & Finding Calm


The day began early with a sense of adventure. My sister and I decided to go chasing lighthouses in East London, a spontaneous little mission that already felt exciting. The weather matched the mood, overcast skies, cooler air, and that stillness you only get by the ocean. We started with a slow drive along Orient Beach. It was quiet, almost untouched, and so very beautiful. The calmness of the water held us still for a moment, with yachts floating effortlessly in the harbour and the sun peeking through the clouds just enough to make the water shimmer. There was a kind of magic in that scene, tranquil and deeply relaxing.


From there, we ventured down the West Bank coast in search of Hood Point Lighthouse. The drive itself became an adventure, twisting roads, wrong turns, moments of laughter as we “got lost” but also discovered hidden corners of the coast. When we finally arrived, standing before the lighthouse built in 1895, I couldn’t help but feel that pull of symbolism. Lighthouses have always fascinated me. They’re not just towering structures, they represent guidance, direction, and the reminder that no matter how lost you may feel, there is always a light to guide you home.


The day unfolded gently into the afternoon, taking us to the other side of town where we strolled down the Nahoon boardwalk. The shoreline stretched endlessly, the rocky beaches beneath us, the waves humming their timeless song. Nature in its raw beauty never fails to ground me, it reminds me to breathe deeper and notice the world in front of me.


By evening, the pace shifted into something lighter and more playful. I joined my bestie and her daughter for Bingo night at a local school. It was laughter, chatter, a little competition, and the simple joy of being in community.


It felt like such a full day, woven with adventure, exploration, connection, and grounding. Stepping into the unknown, even just for a drive in search of a lighthouse, reminded me that life holds so many surprises. Sometimes the most unexpected paths bring the most memorable moments. And at the end of it all, being surrounded by loved ones sealed the day with gratitude and contentment.

~ Nerusha

Thursday, August 14, 2025

Homecoming

Another early rise, this time with a suitcase in hand and a heart both heavy and light. I was headed to the airport, homebound. There’s always a certain duality in returning, I love the independence of my own space, but there’s nothing quite like being with family. The laughter, the connection, the grounding presence of those who know you best. After months away, navigating uncertainty and change, the thought of coming home felt like a soft landing for my soul.


Still, this homecoming carried a bittersweet note. For the first time, my ma wouldn’t be there. Everything would feel a little different, and I knew I had to mentally prepare myself for that reality. Loss has a way of reshaping the spaces we return to, of shifting the way we hold memory and presence all at once.


The flight itself felt like a quiet reflection. And then, arrival. My best friend was waiting, arms open, ready with a hug that said more than words ever could. There was no need for explanations. Just a knowing. A shared understanding. A few tears slipped out, not of sadness alone but of release, of recognition, of love.


Being home brought with it a sense of relief, a gentle peace within myself. The humility, warmth, and genuine kindness of the people here, those who have always held a special place in my heart, felt like a breath of fresh air, reminding me that I’m rooted, no matter how far I wander.


Later in the evening, we gathered for prayer. I was so grateful to be part of it. A joyful, soulful space shared with family and friends, united in remembrance of a loved one gone too soon. As we sat together in the lounge, talking, reminiscing, laughing softly through the stories, I felt comforted. There was healing in that togetherness, in prayer, in shared memory.


Coming home isn’t always easy. Sometimes it stirs both joy and ache in equal measure. But today, I was reminded that even in the bittersweet, there is beauty. I was home. And I was glad to be here.


~Nerusha 

Wednesday, August 13, 2025

Grounded in Gratitude

The day began gently, with yoga. I rolled out my mat not just to stretch my body, but to steady my mind, to ground myself, to soften the edges of anxiety, and to find some inner calm before what lay ahead. I had an 8 a.m. assessment scheduled, and while I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect, I kept reminding myself of one simple truth, just do your best.


When the assessment finally began, I was surprised, in the best way. What I thought might overwhelm me actually turned into something I genuinely enjoyed. It was challenging, yes, but it felt like a space where I could show up fully and allow my skills to speak for themselves. Walking away, I felt lighter, encouraged, and proud that I had stepped into it with courage.


The rest of the day unfolded with a different kind of focus, preparing to go home for a prayer. I booked my ticket, started packing my luggage, and in those small actions felt a sense of anticipation and comfort. Returning home always carries with it a feeling of grounding, like pressing pause and reconnecting with what truly matters.


Later in the evening, I closed the day with friends, an unhurried walk followed by dinner, filled with laughter, conversation, and that sense of ease that only comes from being around people who lift your spirit. By the time I got home, my heart felt full.


Today held it all, anxiety and calm, challenge and relief, routine and connection. But above all, it reminded me how important it is to remain open, to experiences, to people, and to the little surprises that make life richer.


I end this day with gratitude. For my breath. For my people. For the journey that continues to unfold, one step at a time.


~Nerusha


Tuesday, August 12, 2025

Facing Forward

 

Today began bright and early, with a clear intention, prepare thoroughly for tomorrow’s supervised assessment. I knew the day would be full, and I leaned into it with quiet focus. There’s always a bit of uncertainty when it comes to these evaluations, no matter how much research or prep I do, I’m never quite sure what will come up. That unpredictability brings its own kind of anxiety.

Yesterday’s Swift Analysis Assessment was a reminder of just how intense these moments can be. The time constraints made it feel like a race against the clock, and I found it challenging to stay grounded amidst the pressure. But even in that discomfort, I showed up. I did the best I could.

Today, I carried that experience with me, not as a weight, but as a lesson. I spent the day reviewing, refining, and preparing with intention. Most of it was spent indoors, immersed in study and quiet concentration. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was necessary. And I believe it was worth it.

As evening approached, I chose rest again, an early night to give myself the best chance of clarity and calm before my 8 a.m. assessment. Because preparation isn’t just about content, it’s about mindset, energy, and self-trust.

I may not know exactly what tomorrow holds, but I know I’ve done the work. And that, in itself, is something to be proud of.

~Nerusha

Monday, August 11, 2025

Pushing Through with Purpose

 Monday morning greeted me with sunshine, fresh air, and a great cappuccino, my favorite trio to ease into the week. I started the day with a walk, letting the movement clear my mind and set the tone for what I knew would be a focused, high-energy day.

My plan was clear,  complete my practice assessments before diving into the real thing. One of them was timed, and it felt like being in a pressure cooker, every second ticking louder than the last. But I stayed the course, leaned into the challenge, and gave it my best shot. These assessments aren’t just about ticking boxes, they’re part of the bigger picture.

By the end of the day, I had completed everything I needed to online. It was intense, mentally demanding and emotionally draining, but also deeply satisfying. I’d done what I set out to do.

There was still admin to tackle, and I pushed through that too, knowing that clearing the clutter helps me stay focused on what matters. But by evening, I could feel the fatigue settling in. So I listened to my body, chose rest, and turned in early, giving myself the gift of a head start for tomorrow.

Some days are about pushing through. Others are about knowing when to pause. Today was both.

~Nerusha

Sunday, August 10, 2025

Seasons of Support and Soft Renewal

 There’s a subtle shift in the air, Spring is approaching. I felt it this morning in the earlier break of dawn, the way the light stretched gently across the sky, and how my body instinctively rose to meet it. There’s something about seasonal change that stirs something within, a quiet eagerness to begin again.

I made my way down to the promenade, as I often do, for our customary morning walk with my cousins. Coffee followed, of course, a ritual we’ve come to treasure. Today we lingered a little longer, letting the conversation flow, reminiscing, laughing, simply enjoying each other’s company. The weather didn’t disappoint, sunny, bright, and full of promise.

Later, I ran a few errands before joining family for lunch at my aunt’s place. Her home-cooked meals are always a treat, filled with love, warmth, and the kind of goodness that makes you eat just a little too much. But more than the food, it was the connection that nourished me. I felt held, supported, and deeply grateful.

I shared some of my canvas prints and fridge magnets with the family, and to my joy, received heartfelt support for my photography business. We swapped stories of resilience, how life’s challenges shape us, how in those moments we discover new parts of ourselves and stretch beyond what we thought possible. It was comforting and affirming to hear words of encouragement from people who genuinely believe in me.

By the time I returned home, my cup felt full. Full of love, full of support, full of quiet strength. And with that, I feel ready to take on the week ahead, with gratitude in my heart and a renewed sense of purpose.

~Nerusha

Saturday, August 9, 2025

Honoring Her: A Day of Connection and Quiet Power

 

Today is National Women’s Day, and from the moment I woke up, my heart was full. Messages from friends and family poured in, each one a gentle reminder of the incredible women who’ve shaped my life over the years. Their strength, grace, and quiet resilience have left lasting imprints, and I carry those lessons with me every day.

The morning began with a much-awaited walk with family. These shared moments, simple, grounding, and filled with laughter, have become a ritual I deeply cherish. There’s something sacred about walking side by side, exchanging stories, and just being present with one another. I’m grateful for that kind of connection.

The day was busy, filled with chores and movement, but the heart of it was an event I attended with a dear friend in celebration of Women’s Day. The gathering included a light lunch and powerful talks by women speakers who addressed the nuanced challenges women face, many of which are often overlooked or misunderstood. Their stories were raw, relevant, and deeply affirming. It reminded me that awareness isn’t just about educating others, it’s about awakening something within ourselves too.

Later in the afternoon, I shifted gears and prepared for an online workshop on Power BI. With the time difference in the US, the session stretched into the evening, but it was worth every minute. I learned new concepts, gained practical insights, and felt that quiet thrill of expanding my toolkit. Growth, even late into the night, feels like a gift.

I sealed the day with a warm cup of masala chai and some snacks, a small comfort, but one that wrapped the day in softness.

The biggest lesson today? Value yourself. Know your story. Honor your journey. And don’t wait for external validation. Be grateful for those who truly see you, and keep rising for yourself.

~Nerusha

Friday, August 8, 2025

A Day of Grace, Growth, and Gratitude

 

My day began in stillness, with a prayer and offering to the divine feminine. As the sun rose, I arranged flower vases, prepared sweets, and immersed myself in the ritual. There was a quiet fulfillment in each gesture, a sense of humbleness, grace, and upliftment that wrapped around me like morning light. These moments remind me that reverence isn’t just in the prayer itself, but in the intention behind it. And today, that intention was pure.

Afterward, I stepped into the rhythm of the day, my morning walk, a few errands, and some admin tasks that needed attention. But even in the movement, there was clarity. I felt anchored.

Later, I turned my focus to something close to my heart: my photography. I began crafting a new sales campaign, driven by a mission to share my work with the world, not just as images, but as stories from my lens and soul. Each shot holds a piece of me, and this campaign is my way of inviting others into that space.

And then came a moment that felt like a quiet celebration, the first delivery of sample products from a South African supplier. Canvas prints and fridge magnets, tangible pieces of my vision, beautifully brought to life. I was overjoyed. Seeing my work in this new form gave me a deep sense of gratitude. I’m learning, growing, and stepping into something I’ve never done before. And that, in itself, is a triumph.

As evening approached, I prepared for temple service, a space of reverence for the divine mother energy. It’s a place I return to for comfort, healing, and grace. The vibration there resonates deeply, reminding me that I am held, accepted, and guided.

Today was auspicious. Sacred. Creative. And I embraced every minute of it.

~Nerusha

Week One: Piece by Piece, I Rise

My first week at Nedbank felt like being handed a 2,500-piece puzzle, daunting at first glance, but slowly, steadily, I began to piece it to...