Berna Terblanche on make-up artist milestones, finding love, and deep inner work
A holistic wellness and massage practitioner writes about a serendipitous sweat lodge ceremony, running as a form of therapy, ‘feeling into’ a subject and living along South Africa’s Garden Route.
1 Tell us about your career in the wellness industry.
My career in the wellness industry began in 2009 at a boutique day spa in the Klein Karoo, where I laid the foundation for a path rooted in service, care, and holistic well-being. Over time, I expanded my professional skillset by qualifying internationally as a Nail Technician through Young Nails (I’m also a qualified in Bio Sculpture Gel), and later as a Professional Make-up Artist. These qualifications not only refined my technical abilities but also deepened my understanding of personal care as an integral part of wellness.
I later joined a world-class, Italian-inspired spa at Pinnacle Point in Mossel Bay. It was here that my client-centered approach truly took shape, as I worked with people from all walks of life and further developed my ability to meet diverse needs with sensitivity and professionalism.
In 2020, my journey took a more holistic turn when I completed my Reiki training up to Master level, followed by certifications in Crystal Energy Healing and Life Coaching. Along the way, I gained experience across a wide range of roles - including Receptionist, Shift Coordinator, Personal Assistant, Nail Technician, Make-up Artist, Massage Therapist, Life Coach, and Sales Representative. This breadth of experience has allowed me to build a versatile and well-rounded professional foundation.
Currently, I work as a Receptionist and Administrative Assistant at a dental practice in George, while offering Wellness Coaching, Massage Therapy, and Energy Therapy to clients after hours. I am also the host of The Blissfully Balanced Podcast, which is available on all major platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.
Image: Pexels, model used
2 You’re devoted to life-long learning. When you look back, which three workshops, courses or seminars stand out?
A commitment to lifelong learning has shaped my professional path in profound ways, with a few formative experiences standing out as pivotal moments of growth and transformation.
At the top of the list is the Young Nails International Nail and Business Training I attended in Johannesburg in 2017, following my win at a National Young Nails Nail Competition. The experience was nothing short of extraordinary. Meeting industry leaders Greg and Habib Salo, alongside Tracey Reierson from the United States, and learning directly from them was of immeasurable value. The knowledge and insight gained during that training remain deeply treasured, both in my work as a nail technician and beyond.
Equally significant was my International Reiki training. Although the course was completed online, the journey itself was long, awe-inspiring, and deeply transformative. Progressing through all three levels and ultimately to Master level proved to be far more than a professional qualification. What began as a desire to help others became a powerful process of self-healing. The training required lifestyle changes, deep inner work, and the willingness to face personal shadows - essential steps that ultimately prepared me to hold space for others with integrity and compassion.
The third standout experience was my Professional Make-Up Artist training, completed in Johannesburg in 2014. This training opened the door to a wide range of opportunities, from working alongside some of South Africa’s leading photographers, make-up artists, and models to participating in fashion shows, styled photo shoots, matric balls, and weddings. It also led to my work being featured on the website of one of South Africa’s top modelling agencies, as well as in Lééf Magazine - milestones that marked an exciting and expansive chapter in my creative career.
Also listen to Berna’s insights into creating a space where your child – and inner child – can flourish.
“Finally, and perhaps most importantly, I prioritise time in nature and adequate rest.”
3 Content creation is something you enjoy. How do you approach the challenges involved, such as new technologies or time constraints?
In an era defined by constant technological change and ever-tightening schedules, time and technology are unavoidable challenges. My response to them, however, is intentionally intuitive rather than reactive.
I approach content creation by first allowing the topic to reveal itself. Those who follow my work may have noticed that I post less frequently than before, and this is by design. I begin by “feeling into” a subject - sitting with it, meditating on it, and assessing whether it truly resonates. If it doesn’t, I set it aside. For me, content must carry meaning. I am particularly drawn to sharing information with an educational purpose, offering people a solid foundation of understanding in areas that feel important and timely to explore.
Once a topic is clear, I move into a structured planning and brainstorming phase, where AI has become a valuable support tool. From there, I develop a plan of action and break it down into manageable, bite-sized tasks. This allows me to integrate content creation into my daily schedule with ease, doing more on days when time allows and maintaining momentum through scheduled calendar tasks that help keep me focused and accountable.
I have also learned the value of asking for help. Rather than spending excessive time on areas where my knowledge is limited, I choose to outsource when necessary. While I understand technology well enough to manage the basics, I am not an expert, and I am continuously learning. More advanced projects - such as building a website - are better handled by specialists, a realization I reached after attempting it myself and recognizing how much time it consumed.
When it comes to recording content, I work efficiently by doing bulk recordings or capturing material as I move through my day. You never know when a moment might become useful later.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, I prioritise time in nature and adequate rest. Spending time outdoors - preferably barefoot - has a grounding and calming effect that clears my mind and sharpens my creativity. I have found that when I am well-rested and connected to nature, the quality of my work improves significantly.
My guiding principle is simple: content creation should never feel like work. When it does, it’s a sign to pause, step back, and take a break.
Image: Unsplash
4 You love nature and live in one of the most beautiful regions of South Africa. Mention some of the places you visit again and again.
Living along South Africa’s Garden Route means being surrounded by extraordinary natural beauty, and there are several places I find myself returning to time and again.
Wilderness stands out as one of the most magical destinations for me. Despite the current roadworks, it remains a place where nature unfolds in its full splendour. On one side, sweeping views of the ocean and coastline stretch endlessly, while on the other, mountains and dense forests create an equally breathtaking backdrop. Iconic landmarks such as the Map of Africa, the Kingfisher Trail, and numerous other hiking routes make the area endlessly engaging. From paragliding and kayaking to simply soaking up the atmosphere, there is no shortage of activities. The restaurants are exceptional, the overall vibe is rare and memorable, and the people of Wilderness are truly in a league of their own. It is also worth noting that the Netflix series Tuiskoms was filmed here, adding to the town’s unique character.
Image: Unsplash
Mossel Bay, and particularly The Point, holds some of my most cherished memories. Weekend drives with my parents, visits to the lighthouse cave, feeding pigeons, watching rock hyraxes, enjoying soft-serve ice cream while surfers played in the waves, and browsing the stalls - especially at The Goods Shed - are moments that remain vivid. The area offers rich cultural and recreational experiences, from the Diaz Museum and the popular Zipline to De Bakke and Santos Beach, where the Half Ironman famously starts and finishes. Surfing lessons at Diaz Beach, along with strong local restaurants and businesses, further add to its appeal. As a former learner at Point High School - arguably the school with the most beautiful view in South Africa - Mossel Bay will always feel deeply personal. The town is also renowned for having one of the most temperate, mild year-round climates in the world, second only to Hawaii.
Great Brak River, my hometown, was long overlooked but is now thriving. Growth is evident everywhere, something any newcomer will readily confirm. The addition of a waterfront has added to its appeal, and for runners, a simple loop around town from almost any parking spot conveniently adds up to a five-kilometre route.
Gourits is another hidden gem, still relatively unknown to many. For those seeking true peace and quiet, it is the perfect escape. A picnic basket, fishing gear, sunblock, and a swimsuit are all that’s needed to enjoy its unspoilt beaches. With fresh air, striking red rocks, shells, tidal pools, and wide open spaces, it offers a deeply restorative experience. The area also features camping facilities, restaurants, holiday homes, and a river where boats can be launched - rumoured to be home to some impressive catches.
Image: Pexels, model used
5 What is it about running that draws you?
My relationship with running has been shaped by perseverance rather than ease. As a child, I struggled with chronic asthma and found longer distances particularly challenging. During my primary school years, I gravitated toward shorter races and field events, where I performed well, while long-distance running remained an aspiration rather than a reality. I remained on chronic asthma medication until Grade 9, when it appeared that I had outgrown the condition. Even then, building toward endurance running was a gradual and often demanding journey.
I began running more seriously in Grade 11 or 12, continued intermittently after school, and returned to it again in 2009 on and off. In 2015, I entered my first 5 km race purely for enjoyment. It was only in 2019 that I committed to running consistently and began to see real improvement. Today, running is something I deeply love - so much so that if I cannot run, I walk. There is a familiar sense of camaraderie among runners, even the light-hearted envy felt when driving through town and spotting others out on the road or trail.
For me, running is a form of therapy. It is just me and the road or the trail, and the experience is entirely self-directed: what I put in, I get out. I am not competing with anyone else - only with myself. Running continually challenges me to reach limits I never believed my body was capable of. As an outdoor activity, and especially through trail running, it clears my mind, helps release stagnant energy, and allows heavy emotions to fall away.
The most meaningful runs are those where I feel as though I could keep going indefinitely. And the surge of energy that follows a good run is unmatched - it brings a sense of vitality and empowerment that makes me feel ready to take on the world.
6 You recently got engaged to Dr Francois du Toit, whom I’ve also featured on my platform. Where did you meet?
Dr Francois du Toit and I met in 2023 at a wellness retreat. I arrived late for a sweat lodge ceremony and felt unwell toward the end of the session. Afterwards, he approached me to check whether I was alright, and we began talking as we walked back to our tents. What started as a simple, caring interaction naturally developed into a meaningful connection.
We remained friends for quite some time, until around late-February 2025, when our relationship evolved into something more. On the 22nd of November 2025, he asked me to marry him—and I said yes.
You can read Dr Francois du Toit’s Up Close & Personal article, written some time before Berna’s article, here.
7 What do you appreciate about each of your children?
Etienne and his companion at his matric farewell in 2025
What I value most about my son, Etienne, is his deep sense of fairness and integrity. He consistently seeks the best possible outcome for everyone involved in any situation, taking the time to listen to all sides before forming his own conclusions. Wise beyond his years, he is thoughtful, intelligent, innovative, and deeply creative - a natural maker who enjoys bringing ideas to life. His love and care extend effortlessly to nature, animals, and the wider community. With his generous heart and his role as a devoted older brother, he continues to make me immensely proud. While I admire the young man he is becoming, to me he will always be my boy, and I love him dearly.
Michaela
What I appreciate most about my daughter is the joy she brings into every space she enters. Her laughter has the ability to light up a room. She is funny, caring, and deeply loving, with an intelligence that stands out even at her young age. Her imagination is boundless, and she delights in all things creative - especially those filled with glitter, unicorns, and mermaids. With her warm heart and vibrant spirit, she is a joy to be around. She is the most beautiful girl I have ever seen, made even more so by her radiant personality. She is my best friend, and I love her beyond measure.
8 Which dreams for the future are close to your heart?
At the heart of my vision for the future is a desire to travel the world, sharing my knowledge and supporting people across different cultures through healing work - both in treatment and retreat settings. I dream of helping individuals reconnect with lives rooted in peace, love, and authenticity, and of seeing people truly thrive rather than merely survive.
In a fast-paced world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, I hope to see a renewed emphasis on genuine human connection within communities. I long for a collective return to nature and the adoption of lifestyles that are both more active and more grounded, prioritising health, balance, and well-being. Presence, to me, is essential - being fully engaged in the moment rather than anchored in the past or consumed by anxiety about the future.
Above all, I wish for people to recognise their inherent worth, to understand that they are - and always have been -enough. My guiding principle remains simple and enduring: be the change you want to see in the world.
About Berna
Berna Terblanche’s career in the wellness industry began in 2009 at a day spa in the Klein Karoo. Over the years, she expanded her skill set by qualifying internationally as a Nail Technician and a Professional Make-up Artist. She later joined a world-class, Italian-inspired Spa in Mossel Bay. In 2020, she completed her Reiki training up to Master level, followed by certifications in Crystal Energy Healing and Life Coaching.
Berna has worked in a variety of roles—including Receptionist, Shift Coordinator, Personal Assistant, Nail Technician, Make-up Artist, Massage Therapist, and Sales Representative. She currently works as a Receptionist/Administrative Assistant at a dentist in George, while offering Wellness Coaching, Massage Therapy and Energy Therapy to clients after hours.
Berna hosts The Blissfully Balanced Podcast, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and other platforms.
Email address: info@blisshubsa.com
Website: https://blisshubsa.com/
YouTube: Blissfully Balanced Podcast
Facebook: Blissfully Balanced
Instagram: @blissfulbalanceholistics
Thumbnail: Unsplash
Image of Berna Terblanche and loved ones: supplied