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

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 

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

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

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

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

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

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

Grace in Preparation

Today was rooted in intention. I spent the morning cleaning and preparing for a prayer I’ll be observing tomorrow, an auspicious day that holds deep meaning for me. There’s something powerful about these rituals, especially when they’re tied to honoring feminine energy. I find joy in embracing the strength, softness, and quiet resilience that comes with being a woman. It’s a reminder of the sacred balance I carry within.

Midday brought a gentle pause. I visited a friend for coffee and a short shopping trip, a break from the busyness, but also a moment to slow down and breathe. These small interludes, filled with laughter and light conversation, often become the reset I really needed.

Later, I prepped dinner with care before heading to temple. The experience was grounding, immersing myself in prayer, reflection, and the shared energy of the space. It reminded me that even in seasons of uncertainty, there is always something deeper to lean into. Something steady. Something sacred.

Being part of that moment gave me hope. It gave me confidence. It reminded me that I am held, guided, and capable of rising into whatever lies ahead.

My affirmation for today - 

I honor my strength, embrace my culture, and trust the sacred rhythm of becoming. I am grounded, guided, and rising with grace.

~Nerusha

Leaning into New Possibilities

My day began with a short morning walk, a quick moment to centre myself before the day picked up pace. It wasn’t a long one, but it was enough. Enough to breathe, reconnect with my thoughts, and set a steady tone for what was to come. Lately, these little routines have become anchors for me, reminders that even in the busiest seasons, I can still create pockets of peace.

The rest of the day moved quickly, errands to run, admin to tackle, life to keep in motion. But what I was most excited about was a small online workshop I attended, one focused on tutoring and digital education. It’s a space I’ve been exploring more intentionally, and I believe it’s an avenue for real growth.

There’s something rewarding about leaning into new skills, expanding your horizons, and discovering ways to make an impact, even outside of your traditional career path. For me, it’s not just about income, it’s about influence, flexibility, and finding meaning in the work I do.

Today may have been practical and task-heavy, but it was also filled with quiet progress. These steps, however small, feel like part of something bigger, something unfolding.

And that gives me hope.

~Nerusha

Finding Stillness After the Storm

 

After a restless night, I woke with my mind racing, remnants of yesterday’s case study interview still echoing in my thoughts. That quiet voice of self-criticism had already crept in, replaying moments I wished had gone differently. I felt the need to clear my head, so I stepped out into the morning. A slow walk. A warm coffee. A pause to breathe. It helped more than I realized.

The morning brought movement, but it also brought release. There’s something grounding in walking without destination, just letting the path do the work and allowing fresh air to soften the tension within.

Later, I met a friend for brunch and ceramic painting. It was exactly what I didn’t know I needed. A calm, creative space. No pressure. Just quiet, chilled vibes, colour palettes, and heartfelt conversation. The paintbrush became an extension of that emotional reset, each stroke pulling me further from the stress and closer to presence.

The rest of the day flowed in that same spirit. I chose to relax, giving myself permission to step back after weeks of preparation and high energy. That decision felt nourishing. Guilt-free rest is something I’m learning to embrace.

In the evening, I cooked dinner for a loved one, a small act, but one wrapped in care. Cooking, for me, is another form of therapy. A way to offer warmth, to reconnect through simplicity. And sharing that moment felt like the perfect end to a day rooted in gentleness.

Not every day is about doing more. Some days are about softening. Releasing. Recalibrating.

~Nerusha

A Lesson in Pressure and Presence

This morning began as many do, with yoga. A quiet flow to settle the nerves and bring focus to what lay ahead. As I moved, I noticed a deep orange stretch across the sky. I stepped outside to watch the sunrise, an intentional pause to ground myself in gratitude and positive intention. Whatever the day held, I wanted to meet it with clarity and calm.

Today was D-day, my first case study interview. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, but I carried a quiet hope that I’d come through it well. After my walk, I rushed home to prepare for the 9 a.m. call, heart racing, energy high, ready to show up. I was excited. I was grateful for the opportunity. And I was nervous.

The interview didn’t unfold as I’d hoped. Unexpected circumstances made it challenging, overwhelming, even. The pressure, coupled with my own internal build-up, created an experience that felt more unsettling than empowering. I did my best in that moment, but I won’t pretend it was easy. Once it was over, I exhaled with relief. But the weight of how it went stayed with me.

Later, in reflection, a truth settled in, even with 20 years of experience, when certain areas aren’t actively practiced, they fade. And in pressured situations, it’s hard to recall buried knowledge on demand. That realization stung, but it also taught me something valuable.

Preparation isn’t just about knowing the content, it’s about rehearsing the pressure. Mimicking time constraints, simulating the interview environment, and practicing with intensity can make all the difference. Building that inner groundedness isn't just ideal, it’s essential.

Today didn’t go perfectly. But it wasn’t wasted. It was a lesson. A step. A crack where the light gets in.

I’m learning. I’m recalibrating. And I’m still rising.

~Nerusha

Preparing to Show Up Fully

 This Sunday began with one of my favorite rituals, early morning walks with family. We strolled the promenade, sipping coffee, laughing at familiar stories, and taking in the scenery like we hadn’t seen it a hundred times before. These moments, rooted in love, joy, and gentle upliftment, are priceless. They anchor me. They remind me of what’s steady when life gets unpredictable.

The rest of the day was quieter, more focused. I spent time prepping for an upcoming interview, and while the nerves are real, I can feel the excitement bubbling beneath them. There’s something empowering about preparation, it’s not just about gathering information or rehearsing answers. It’s about stepping into readiness. Telling yourself, I belong here.

I gave the process my full attention, reviewing notes, reflecting on experiences, and reminding myself of the work I’ve already done. And in that space, I found a sense of clarity. The mix of nerves and excitement tells me I care deeply. It tells me that this matters.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to prepare. Grateful for the possibility of something new. And grateful that I get to show up, not just with qualifications, but with intention, heart, and hope.

I've done the work. I’ve laid the foundation. And now, I get to rise.

~Nerusha

Grounded in Connection, Rising with Grace

 

The day began bright and early with a morning walk along the promenade, soft light rising over the ocean, fresh air filling our lungs, and the quiet hum of laughter between family. These simple rituals, shared steps, shared silence, shared stories, have become my grounding. We sealed the morning with light breakfast and coffee, a calm pause before life scattered in its many directions.

What followed was a day built on connection. I spent time with loved ones, caught up with friends, and tried a new restaurant with someone dear. The food was incredible, yes, but it was more than that. It was a celebration. A quiet toast to the launch of my photography initiative. Sharing joy over good food, honoring small wins with those who’ve walked beside me, it reminded me why this path feels so meaningful.

Throughout the day, I kept coming back to one feeling, gratitude. For the people in my life who’ve shown up, time and time again, through every season. Their support isn’t loud, but it’s unwavering. Whether it's a check-in, a conversation, a shared meal, it holds me. It grounds me. It reminds me I’m not alone in the rising.

The evening was a beautiful close to it all. Dinner at our longtime favorite spot, the kind of place that holds memories in the walls. We tried the pumpkin spice chai and saffron spiced chai, a treat, and a moment to savor. The warmth of the meal, the laughter across the table, the ease of being fully seen, it was more than a meal, it was comfort.

Today was full, emotionally, creatively, soulfully. And as I tucked into the quiet later, I realized the true highlight wasn’t productivity or progress, though they were there, it was presence. Being with those who care, being cared for in return. That’s the part I’m most grateful for.

~Nerusha

Rooted in Grace

 

This morning began with a quiet walk, my way of easing anxiety and grounding myself before the weekend. Fridays often carry dual energy, the push to reflect on all that’s unfolded, and the pull to slow down, to exhale into rest. As I walked, I breathed in the crisp morning air and let the week gently settle behind me.

Afterwards, I slipped into focus, working through case studies with steady intent. There’s something reassuring about diving into purpose, especially when the mind needs anchoring. The rhythm of problem-solving, the clarity it brings, helped me reset.

Later, I met a dear friend for coffee, a warm pause in the day that unfolded into something much deeper. Our conversation moved between stories, struggles, laughter, and shared vulnerability. Hearing what others carry, the weight, the worries, the wins, was humbling. It reminded me just how much grace we owe each other.

Sometimes we forget how layered our lives are beneath the surface. And how much we all need the same things, care, kindness, and the presence of someone who simply listens. That coffee wasn’t just a catch-up, it was an invitation to stay soft, to choose compassion, and to lead with empathy wherever I go.

The entire day echoed that sentiment. A reminder that we rise stronger when we’re gentle with each other. And sometimes, a kind word or quiet hug does far more than we know.

~Nerusha