Make up Artist Celina Rodriguez shares her tips for beauty (from the place where it counts the most)
In a generation driven by instant gratification, where much of our focus relies on outer appearance — it's no wonder why it takes a great deal of time to find a healthy balance between inner and outer beauty. Selfies here, selfies there. We often forget that what's on the inside is what really counts: things like our health, our mind, our body, and our conscious being. When those things aren't right, we're not right. In the words of queen Lauryn Hill, "How you gonna win when you ain't right within?"
Now that we're well on our way into the new year, now is a better time than any to work on ourselves. None of this buying into this ‘new year, new me' mentality. Why are so many of us eager to leave the last 12 months behind us? Why is another year passed a signifier for new routines and new goals? And why don't we carry this attitude throughout the year? Rather than making a list of things you will and will not do in 2016, look at this as fresh opportunity to set the tone for a new lifestyle routine. Remember, we're striving for a healthy inner and outer. It took a solid two years for me to find my balance. I can only hope that through my tips, tricks, and insight, I'll be able to help you reach your own balance. So with that said, here are some of my most important tips for inner beauty —
Trust yourself enough to know that it will all come into fruition when you're at your best to receive it.
What is it that you want to accomplish this year? Don't limit your experience and growth by setting a timeline. Trust yourself enough to know that it will all come into fruition when you're at your best to receive it. It's not about how fast you can achieve your new goals or lifestyle, it's about being present in every moment and having the upmost gratitude and love for every step that takes you there.
Rosewater, Witch Hazel, and Coconut Oil are your friends.
Please Cosmos, Universe, and all mighty power — let this be the year that you make your skincare regimen a priority and an all-around important part of your day. Tone your face with Rosewater or Witchazel, lather yourself in Coconut Oil. Take off that makeup every single night (girls and boys), and wash your face at least twice a day!
A little intention for the mornings.
Try to start your mornings by taking 5-10 minutes to yourself, set your intentions and set the mood for your day. Not all of us necessarily have time in the morning to be still but time is precious. Maybe that means waking up 10 minutes earlier so that you can create this window for yourself. Morning meditation, prayer — call it what you will — it's just such a good feeling to tune into yourself before you start your day. In your most quiet of moments, remind yourself of what you're setting out to do.
Eat, but eat well if you can. Remember that your mind, body, and skin will thank you for it.
Diet is one of the most dangerous 4-letter-words. Depending on where you live and the community by which you are surrounded by, certain cities can be a bit more health-conscious than others (LA, NYC, I'm looking at you). The word DIET feels like a burden. I don't believe we necessarily have to stick to strict dieting — let's just make a conscious effort to really pay attention to what we're putting into our bodies. Eat whatever makes you happy, just know that your mind, your body, and your skin will always be at it's best when you aren't consuming any artificial foods. Lord knows we all love a good slice of pizza or pan dulce with our coffee (for all my latin lovers out there). So treat yourself, just remember to work it out - to work it off.
You have options, remember that. There isn't just one way to accomplish your goals.
Before you sign up for that new gym membership ask yourself why you aren't exercising outdoors? Are you running in the morning or hitting your local trail once or twice a week? Have you tried? And instead of going to your typical gym, have you looked into joining a climbing center or a boxing gym? How about pilates and yoga if you're looking for a lil' something different? Go for a night strolls or skip the elevator and opt to take the stairs. You have options, always remember that. There isn't just one way to accomplish your goals. Fit them according to your lifestyle. There are many paths to take you there. No limitations.
Let this be the year that you challenge your mind, and that you challenge yourself. If you're not uncomfortable, you're not growing. And if you're not growing, how can you become your best self ?
Be present. Be aware. Do work from the inside out. That, in itself, is an accomplishment.
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