Hi and Salaams all!
This week's blog is going to be a different one! I wanted to come on here and tell you a little bit about myself and my journey. My name is Shabana and I am a nature lover, which manifests in many ways - from my nature walks and invigorating hikes to my adventurous cycling trips that take me into the heart of the great outdoors.
As a little girl I used to love digging holes in the field behind our home and make daisy chains in the summer. But it was through gardening where my passion truly blossomed. I used to tend to an allotment where I cultivated a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. Though my space has since shifted to a tiny backyard, my enthusiasm for growing my own produce remains. Each plant that sprouts and each harvest I gather feels like a small victory.
Through my journey of having an allotment, I learnt about permaculture: fair share, people care and Earth care. This knowledge allowed me to live more harmoniously with nature and it became a part of my commitment to living sustainably.
Speaking of sustainability, it's more than just a passion for me; it's a core principle that guides both my personal and spiritual life as well. As a Muslim, we believe we have been sent as God's representative on this Earth: as Khalifatul Ardh. I try to live by this in all that I do.
Through my business, Amore Terrae, I strive to inspire and encourage others to embrace sustainable practices. I'm incredibly proud to share that Amore Terrae was recognised with the SHE Awards Highly Commended Sustainable Small Business Award in 2023. This achievement is not just a personal milestone but a reflection of my dedication to fostering a more eco-friendly world.
Recently I have taken on cycling as a way to keep fit but also to go out and explore nature, especially finding those little hidden gems of natural beauty that are not far from home - within cycling distance actually! It inspires me to continue doing what I'm doing and to encourage others to join me on this journey too.
Thanks for joining me as I continue to explore and share the beauty and benefits of living sustainably.
Warm regards,
Shabana