Release.

Hi lovelies,

In today’s blog post I have decided to share my inner most thoughts with those of you… like me, who struggle with letting go. Yesterday, as I was decluttering my wardrobe, I noticed that I was struggling to set aside clothes I hadn’t used or worn in months, to either donate or throw in the bin. Although I was no longer in need of even half of them, I struggled to let go of the clutter because of the emotions and memories I had subconsciously attached to them. Later on, when I had completed the decluttering (to the best of my ability), I decided to identify why exactly I had struggled so much to let go of clothes that had served their purpose in my life. As my mind began to wander from this scenario, I found myself questioning my overall ability to let go and declutter in a general sense.

According to Breda Stack, clutter is “anything physical, mental or emotional, that doesn’t serve us or make us feel good”. Each of us has some sort of clutter in our lives, for some this clutter may be the heap of clothes you keep in that corner of your room, and for others, it may simply be the people you’re surround by.

Either way, decluttering is not only beneficial for our rooms, but it is also beneficial for our lives. By letting go of unnecessary baggage, we allow ourselves to release the negative emotions that suffocate us on a daily.

Thanks to Disney’s hit movie Frozen, I have reason to believe that most, if not all of us are familiar with the phrase “let it go”, but have you ever stopped to consider what it actually means to do so?

By letting go, we release all doubt, worry and fear concerning a situation, object, person or outcome. We let go of the things that disrupt our happiness and have seized to serve us on our journey. By letting go we decide to no longer reminisce on what is out of our control, but instead, focus on what is. Letting go creates new opportunities, by stripping away the past. It involves more than just singing ‘LET IT GO’. It is an internal process, that must occur for you to truly feel better. Although I am still working on this myself in multiple areas of my life, by writing this I hope to make a conscious effort to release and be freed from things that have had a hold on me.

I choose to fully accept the experience, situation, and purpose a particular item or person has had in my life and gain control of my present self.

No matter the situation it is important to always remember that you cannot alter the past. We must enjoy what is folding right in front of us without worrying about our needs, desires and wants in the future.

“In the process of letting go, you will lose many things from the past, but you will find yourself” ~ Deepak Chopra

Love, Nyasha x

Shauna’s Summer Social

Hi lovelies,

So last weekend, I was fortunate enough to attend Shauna Doyle’s very first event – ‘Shauna’s Summer Social”. I have been following Shauna’s Instagram for a little less than a year now, but I immediately fell in love with her content because of the authentic online presence she conveys across all her socials. I also love that she is very much an all round blogger and does not shy away from any category – this really stood out for her at her event, where she discussed all things makeup, fashion, biodegradable glitter, sustainabilility, relationships, love island, mental health, future goals and much much more. There was literally something for everyone.

In today’s blogpost I decided to share some highlights I captured, of the outstanding event. Shauna really went above and beyond with every single detail in order to host a fabulous blush babies event that was instagrammable.

Shuana’s Summer Social was held in the luxurius River Lee Hotel, a member of The Doyle Collection, in Cork. Upon arrval, each attendee was greeted, offered a glass of orange juice and photoraphed by @johnarthurphotos infront of the Blush Babies moon gate.

As I walked into the room more, my eyes quickly gravitated to each and every detail. Shauna did not miss any opportunity to personalize the event and make it her own. The whole room was embellished with baby pink tones, stamped with her logo. It was evident that she was involved in the entire organisation process.

As we all approached our seats, waiting for us, was the goodie bag Shauna had teased prior to the event, along with a programme and slithers of cake made by @traceofcakes.

Inside the programme, along with the schedule of activities and sponsors, was a page dedicated for us to jot down ‘what we learnt’, our ‘wishlist’ and ‘notes’. This was a fantastic addition to the programme as it gave each of us an opportunity to write down any products, tips and word’s of advice, that were mentioned as the event progressed. Once we were all settled Shauna then went up and welcomed us all, to her very first event. She spoke with such humility and gratitude, not only to her sponsors, friends and family, but also to us, her blush babies who support her on a day to day.

She then moved on to the first segment of the day, which was ‘Makeup’, where she was joined by Caoimhe (@caoimhebhmua) to do a makeup look on Lucy (@lulusbits). Throughout the process, Shauna and Caoimhe were generous enough to share all their tips, favourite products and answer the ‘hape’ of questions we all had. Once the dewy makeup look was complete, Shauna then invited us all outside for some lunch.

Moctails @thehitchingpost.ie Cupcakes @traceofcakes

After lunch we went straight into the the ‘Styling Session’. For this session, Shauna invited Ali (@ali123_), who is a student brand ambassador for Boohoo, to talk all things fashion. Shauna and Ali had both brought staple pieces from their wadropes, to give us tips on how to style them. I loved that they discussed sustainable fashion in this segment and how it is okay to wear an outfit more than once. Something I had never considered, that Ali mentioned was, if like her, you’re someone who loves wearing dresses and then struggles to switch the outfit up for another occasion, maybe try buying trousers/skirts and tops so that you can alternate pieces to switch up the outfit. The minute she said this it immediately resonated with me, as I am that person who buys dress after dress but never has any other way to change up the outfit besides the original way I wore it. I can’t wait to try out her tip next time I go shopping and see if I can save myself a few euros in the long run.

The final segment of the day, after another short break, was the ‘Q+A & Panel’ where Shauna was joined by four other fabulous ladies.

@carolbyrne30 @aoifeesull @niamhdebrun @cliona_o_hanlon

Together they discussed how they became the influential women they are today, while sharing the reality of their lives behind the screen. Each of them had their own experiences and goals which I really loved hearing about as there was something for everyone to relate to. They did not shy away from their truth but instead shared their raw real life experiences.

All in all, I really and truly enjoyed #shaunassummersocial. The time and dedication she put into the organisation of it all, in the months leading up to it, was really worth while. I wish events like this were on every single weekend. The whole event was very intimate and felt like a massive sister chat.

I am very excited to see what is next for Shauna, but for now I will hold onto what is now a fond memory of mine.

Love, Nyasha x

It’s Not Over… It’s Just The Beginning

Hi lovelies,

Firstly I would like to say a massive thank you to those of you that interacted with my polls and questions on Instagram at the start of the week. It was really insightful to see all your responses on what you would like to see on the blog, over the next few weeks. I promise to try my best to deliver. One particular request I got was to write about results, and seeing as the leaving cert results come out in a little less than a month and the junior cert after that, I decided to share some encouragement for those awaiting their fate.

Exam season is often an extremely stressful period for the best of us. The manner in which they are prepared for and examined often leave students feeling anxious as results day approaches. Although exams usually mark the end of one phase of life, and influence the choices for the next, they are not to be considered the be-all and end-all. It is important to remember that a rounded education is much more valuable than good grades.

From a personal perspective, the lead up to any results day usually leaves me feeling a whirlwind of emotions, which include anxiety, excitement, stress, nervousness and eagerness. Thankfully I’m not the only one. The lead up to exam results is undoubtedly the most stressful time for students, talkless the pressure of needing specific grades for college, or simply, to sit higher level subjects in senior cycle. You may feel like the results you achieve, will determine how your life will pan out in the future, but I am here to tell you that they are just a small part of a much bigger picture, and not the be-all and end-all of success.

Whether you get the results you’re aiming for or not, when you open that envelope, remember to continue to follow your dreams. Just like when you’re on a road trip, in life, there are many routes to get to your desired destination, do not limit yourself based on everyone else’s experience. Take the road less traveled, and see where it might take you.

I’m a firm believer in speaking things into existence, so I would encourage each and everyone of you awaiting results, academic or not – to start speaking positively concerning it. “To achieve great things, you first have to believe”.

Love, Nyasha x

A Guide to Making Friends for Life

Hi lovelies,

I hope you have all had a fantastic week. On the blog, this week, I have decided to delve into the world of friendships. Friendships are an integral part of each of our lives. Being surrounded by good friends has many benefits to an individual. They make hard times easier, and the good times all the better. Unfortunately as we get older, making good friends becomes much harder, because of the shift in expectations from both parties.

Recently, as I was talking to one of my friends, I was reminded of the struggles that come with forming true friendships in adolescence. For me, this stage was filled with conflict, jealousy, mistrust and consistent questioning of people’s intentions. I used to think that I would never be truly content in my friendships. However, over the last month I’ve come to realize that I am honestly so blessed to be surrounded by true friends that go above and beyond my expectations on a daily. The type that I can actually rely on, not question and laugh with, to the point of tears.

This week I wanted to share a short guide to help anyone who might feel like they are truly not satisfied with their friendships. Numerous studies in the last decade show that many people feel like they don’t have any true companions. If this is you, don’t feel guilty, according to Jim Rohn, “you are the average of the five people you spend the most time with”… so if you are not satisfied with your friends – you can’t be satisfied with yourself. I hope that the following steps will be of use to those of you, who are wanting to improve their friendship circle.

1. Be a true friend

The law of attraction, that states, that you attract what you are, plays a pivotal role in the formation of friendships. I quickly learnt this in my teens, when I decided to ditch the mean girl demeanor, that is heavily influenced by the media. I became a ‘girl’s girl’, who was more concerned with empowering the girls around me rather than gossiping and anticipating their downfall. With this character change I began to attract positive friends that were open and welcoming. By naturally shifting to positive thinking I began to align myself with the type of people I wanted in my life.

2. Be yourself

“You came into this world alone and you’ll leave it alone”, so why would you change yourself to suit people who are only in your life temporarily. It’s so easy these days, to find yourself in positions that compromise your identity, just to suit those around you. However, it is much more beneficial to be CONFIDENT IN YOU, without feeling the need to be validated by so called ‘friends’.

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” – Romans 12:2

3. Make the effort to stay in touch

I’m sure you are all aware of the belief that true friends can go long periods without speaking and then easily reconnect, and although I have found this to be true, distance can only be built and sustained by maintaining friendships. Just like relationships, friendships require effort. Friendship’s can be maintained by keeping in contact through texts, calls and face-to-face interactions, where possible.

4. Give and take

Unfortunately each of us have dealt with a friend that seems to take more than they give, at least once in our lifetime. This friend is quick to make all things about themselves. If you find yourself tolerating their selfishness, overtime you may begin to unintentionally form mistrust in future relationships, as a result of this one experience. I would encourage any of you who may feel like they were used in a friendship, either for their time, attention, energy and/or money, to open up again. Friendships are all about balance. Individuals involved must work together to create friendships where each person feels cared about, appreciated and respected. It’s just as important to have good friends, as it is to be a good friend.

When you are surrounded by good people, you’re surrounded by life. Stress is reduced and you begin to experience happiness in all facets. If you have come to realize that you are short on meaningful friendships, I would encourage you to reflect on this guide and start making changes to your circle today.

Be open to inviting new people into your life.

Love, Nyasha x

D.I.Y Vision Board

“Have a vision. It is the ability to see the invisible. if you can see the invisible, you can achieve the impossible” – Shiv Khera

Hi lovelies,

I hope you are all enjoying the month of July so far… I know I am. The sun is shining (SUprIsE, SuPriSe) and I’ve been waking up feeling so motivated… like what more could you ask for. It’s days like this that make me think about how much I could actually accomplish, if I was productive EVERYday of my life.

In today’s blog post I have decided to share a DIY I did this week. I made a vision board so that I could have a visual representation of my goals, that I could hang up in my room and look at for inspiration on days where I feel demotivated.

To make one you will need;

1. A board

My ‘board’ is actually a mirror that cracked… but because I’m a hoarder (lowkey), I removed all the glass so that i could keep the light up frame. Alternatively you could use, a large sheet of card, or stick A4 sheets together. This DIY doesn’t have to be expensive at all.

2. Visions

I got my images on Google, you could also go through magazines and newspapers – but it’s faster to just search online. I really enjoyed browsing the web, whilst brainstorming my short term goals.

3. Art supplies

I used colored paper, scissors, glue, and washi-tape, all of which I already had lying around the house.

The End Result

To stick down my pictures I used tape, I decided not to glue the images to the board, so that I have the freedom to switch up and /or remove my visions as I attain them in the future.

If you have a bit of down time at some stage this week, I would honestly encourage you all to sit down and think about your goals, write them down or better yet make a vision board. By doing so, you’ll find yourself so much more motivated and self-driven. In the words of Hannah Montana, “life’s what you make it, so let’s make it rock… with a new attitude everything can change, make it how you want it to be”.

Love, Nyasha x

H.O.P.E.

“Life is worth living, so live another day” – Justin Bieber

Hi lovelies,

Today, I have decided to discuss a topic that is near and dear to my heart, and that is, mental health. The World Health Organisation describe positive mental health as ‘a state of well-being in which an individual realises his/her own potential and can cope with the normal stresses of life, whilst working productively…’ . An individual’s positive mental health may be compromised as a result of long lasting and extreme negative emotions. Research shows that at least one in four adults, will be affected by some form of mental health issue at some point in their lives, as a result of environmental stresses, genetic factors, biochemical imbalances, or a combination of these.

My battle with mental health began at the age of 14, when I started feeling alone, powerless and despondent. I remember feeling like the whole world was against me. These emotions began affecting my self esteem and the relationships I had with people. For a long time I battled with these emotions on my own as I struggled to make sense of why I was feeling the way I was. I questioned what I had done to deserve the constant thunder cloud’s that shadowed me. I was slowly spiraling to a point of no return.

I can’t remember if it was necessarily by chance, or if I purposely found Zoe Sugg’s channel around this time. Her videos, specifically the ones where she would speak about dealing with anxiety – acted as the glimmer of hope I had been searching for. I found her openness to discussing her struggles and how she was overcoming them, comforting. I began to realize that I had the power to change the emotions that were clouding me – my optimism was back!

Although I have never really spoken in depth to anyone about my thoughts during this period of my life, I am always more than willing to encourage those who may feel like all hope is lost. We need to remember that ‘happiness is a journey, and not a destination’ – we may go through times that challenge us but there is always hope. We are not defined by our mental illnesses. Although it may not seem like it right now, you have the power to be in control of your life. You can achieve your heart desires.

Take it from someone who thought they would never see their 18th birthday, go to college or even one day be content in themselves… this is not the end. It does get better – maybe not overnight, but with time, hard work and dedication to yourself and your well-being, you will begin to see improvements concerning your mental health.

Just Hold On, Pain Ends.

Love, Nyasha x

Believe in You

Hi lovelies,

As I was thinking the other day, I came to the realization that I have a terrible habit of talking myself out of progression in various areas of my life. Like many, if not all of you reading this, I desire to live a successful life, however I often find that I’m battling thoughts of failure when faced with opportunities for advancement. I’d almost liken this battle in my head to the ‘angel and devil on your shoulder’ scenario’s, seen in movies and tv shows where an inner conflict occurs for the character, as a result of what’s happening in their subconscious. This battle usually gives way to doubt and usually leaves me questioning my abilities.

These feelings have occurred for me, for as long as I can imagine, but I only recently identified them, as I was FINALLY going to apply for my provisional license. For two years now, I have been procrastinating the process of learning to drive. Although I have always had a longing to get on the road, the thought of failing, not only the driving test but also the theory, constantly consumed me, prohibiting me from taking any action whatsoever. Despite these reoccurring thoughts, and with the encouragement of family and friends, I eventually booked my theory test in May, and passed with ease. Having then passed the theory I began to question why I had doubted myself for so long. I began imagining all the adventures I could have embarked on – which ultimately made me realize how much time I had potentially wasted… for two years I had been allowing the negative thoughts, plagued in my head to stop me from reaching my goal.

By fostering negative thoughts, we prohibit ourselves from reaching our true potential whilst acting as the greatest obstruction to our own success. This thought process then encourages stagnation in one or more areas, and over time, then causes the individual to have a pessimistic outlook on life.

The truth of the matter is, life isn’t always easy. Work hard for what you want, or you’ll be left to settle with what you don’t. So put in the extra effort, study that bit harder, challenge and push yourself that bit more and most importantly believe in yourself. You never really know how much you can accomplish and achieve, until you try.

Begin visualizing your highest self, and start showing up as them.

You will not regret it.

Love, Nyasha x

Summer Favourites 2019

Hi lovelies,

I hope you are all having a fantastic week so far, and that you are all enjoying the lovely weather that we have been graced with. Among other things, summer for me, consists of glowing skin, adventures, memory making and much more. In today’s blog post, I want to share some of my summer favourites which are essential in making my desired summer a reality

1. Self Tanning Body Lotion

Woman of colour.. self tanner… summer favourite?! Yes, yes and yes! The “Dove DermaSpa Summer Revived Shimmer Body Lotion” is definitely a prize product that i do not see myself parting away with, any time soon. I use this product in the shade ‘medium to dark skin’. Although it is summer, because of Ireland’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, we mainly experience a temperate maritime climate. This essentially means there is often little to no opportunity for ‘golden hour selfies’. However, this moisturizer gives me such good coverage on days that I want to ditch the makeup and flaunt my natural skin, while giving the illusion that I have been basking away in rays of sunshine for hours. The shimmer particles in the product also act as a highlighter, which is always a plus!

2. Lipgloss

The Essence ‘Shine Shine Shine Lipgloss’ in the shade 01, is definitely a must have for me all year round. The gloss gives a wet-look effect, which I know a lot of people aren’t here for, but I am all for it. The texture of it is very wearable and smooth and leaves your lips feeling moisturized, while giving them that glow.

3. Bags and purses

In the last few months I have really fallen for a chunky bag or shopper as my desired handbag. I just find them much more useful for day to day use, because you can carry absolutely everything in them. However, when I am going on adventures/day trips I hate nothing more than lugging around a bag filled with unnecessary bits. Small shoulder bags, like the one pictured above, are the most efficient when you are on the go, as they allow you to carry the minimal necessary bits without the excess weight.

Unfortunately because of the size of my desired bag, I have to resort to downsizing some of its everyday contents, such as my purse. Being honest, I have never been a fan of smaller purses, I am all about the big ones with plenty of card slots (because i just can’t say no to loyalty cards), however the black polka dot one, which I picked up in Stradivarius (also pictured above), has won me over.

4. Fragrances

The Hollister, ‘Crescent Bay’ Body Mist, has been a summer favourite of mine for the longest time now. I am all about body mists in the spring and summer months as I find that they are a much lighter scent, in comparison to a perfume. Crescent Bay is infused with refreshing and bright notes of watermelon and lychee, which are perfect scents for the summertime.

5. A Planner

Summer can be a very busy period for a lot of us because of various commitments. Making use of a personal planner is ideal, in times when you are trying to schedule social events, holidays and outings, in-between shifts in work. As you can see my ‘Molly & Rex’ one is clearly loved because of the creases all over it. The planner offers amazing monthly and weekly layouts and also has sections for me to write my top priorities for each week and events coming up the next, which helps keep me organized. I would recommend anyone who leads a busy life to get themselves a planner not only for the summer months but for the year.

So yeah… there’s five of the products and things I have been loving, so far, this summer. If you would be interested in seeing more of the products and things I am loving, leave me a comment down below and let me know. I would also love to hear about some of your summer favourites and essentials.

I hope you enjoyed the read.

Love, Nyasha x

5 Ways to Look After Yourself

Hi lovelies,

Before I dive into today’s post, I just want to say a massive thank you to everyone near and far for all the support and words of encouragement since uploading my first blog post. I am truly grateful.

Today’s blog post is inspired by a conversation I had with one of my close friends last week, where they opened up about not being in a great place at the moment. This is something that each of us can relate to, at various points of our lives, but because of the many demands of life, often we do not attend to ourselves accordingly. Although we often neglect it, self care is crucial. Self care is defined as the actions one takes to attend to their physical, emotional, relational and spiritual well being. I have decided to share five of my go-to things I do when I am not feeling top-notch, that help me recharge and refocus.

1. Pray and Read the Bible

Praying, reading the bible and/or listening to gospel or worship music are things I find very soothing. Whenever I pray about something that is or has been worrying me I suddenly feel at ease concerning the issue that is consuming me. Reading the word, strengthens me if I am feeling weak and reminds me that God’s plans for me are much greater than I can ever imagine. Here are a few verses that encourage me;

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” – Jeremiah 29:11

Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. -Philippians 4:6

He has made everything beautiful in its time… -Ecclesiastes 3:11

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus -Philippians 4:6-7

God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day -Psalm 46:5

She is clothed in strength and dignity and laughs without fear of the future -Proverbs 31:25

I am with you always -Matthew 28:20

2. Drink Tea

Maybe it’s the ‘Irishness’ in me, but whenever I am stressed I suddenly crave nothing more than a cup of tea. Unfortunately, when I am anxious, the caffeine in tea sets my brain on overdrive which causes me to then overthink. However, a great alternative which still manages to calm my nerves is peppermint tea.

3. Pamper yourself

When I am feeling under the weather there is nothing I value more than my pamper kit (pictured above), which I store in my bed side locker for easy access. Although the application and use of face masks, eye masks and nail polish can often be time consuming, they leave your skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. The aromatic essential oils that are infused in many of these products relax the mind by stimulating your senses.

4. Listen to Music

If you asked me to define music in my own words, I would describe it as a medium that is capable of delivering various emotions to different people. As mentioned previously, gospel/worship music is a personal favorite of mine when I need that extra comfort. However, once I have had my dose of relaxing ‘me’ time, to continue the process of raising my spirits, I usually play my current favourite upbeat jams.

5. Talk to someone

“A problem shared is a problem halved”

A misconception a lot of us have is that, we are suddenly burdens to our loved ones when we share our problems, struggles and/or pain. This however, is not the case. Talking about things that affect you with another person, usually makes the situation seem less daunting and troubling. Just make sure that you are speaking to someone you trust and, that has your best interest at heart, so that you can be reassured that the advice you will get or be given will actually benefit you.

So there you have it, there are the five main things I do when I am not feeling like my best self. We are all wired differently as individuals, so things that work for me might not work for you, but it’s important to find healthy coping mechanisms to overcome lives endless hurdles. If you still haven’t found something that works for you, feel free to try one of mine listed above.

Remember you are never alone.

Love, Nyasha x

Nyasha’s Nook, the blog.

Hi lovelies,

Firstly I want to thank you for clicking onto my first ever blog post. This is a dream that I envisioned many years ago, but because of fear I never actually made it a reality, but today I have decided to let go of my fears.

My name is Nyasha, hence why I have decided to name this blog ‘Nyasha’s Nook’. The word ‘nook’ is used to describe “…a corner for recess, especially one offering seclusion or security”, this is exactly what I want my blog to deliver to my readers.

From a young age, the act of writing provided me with an escape from the hustle and bustle of life and I would like nothing more than for my blog to be a place that my readers can read to unwind. In saying that I hope for my blog to consist of lifestyle, beauty, fashion, food, travel and adventure, and everything else in between.

I am excited to see what this new journey has to offer. To all of who have read to this point, thank you. Hopefully you will come along with me on this journey.

Love, Nyasha x