Beauty Archives | The Rakstar

The Daily Act

The Rakstar — Sun, 04 Aug 2024 18:37:11 +0000

Rakstars, have you ever felt that the day goes by so fast that you don’t get the chance to do something that prioritizes you? From school to work to taking care of the family to doing chores that seem so boring and mundane. What about carving time out for yourself so that you can dance the night away?

We mindlessly are bogged down with tasks that we have to do, that sucks out all the fun and lowers our energy and we become not excited anymore. Fear not, there is one thing we can all add to our self-care routine. The Daily Act!

What is The Daily Act?

Daily Act is where you set up some time each day for a self-care intention. You prioritize your well-being, giving that spark of joy for yourself. It can be from resting in your pajamas with a mask on or going for the walk that you ever so desired. Moreover, it’s about doing the act of taking care of yourself – the calm energy you have longed for.

ACT stands for:

A – Action: Taking an action to boost your overall happiness.

C – Cultivate Consistency: Establishing Regular habits.

T – Trust the Process: Consistency yields results and through patience and resilience, you will achieve your desired outcome.

When you practice this on a daily basis, not only will you yield your desired results, you will be a calmer, happier and confident person. Taking time for yourself has so many benefits but it all starts with you.

You are taking the action to start, being consistent on your journey and through trusting the process – you become a better you.

Let’s take a look at some examples that you can incorporate into your self-care routine on a regular basis and let the flow of calmness enter your soul:

10 minutes of meditation

Boxing class to get rid of the stress of the day away

Taking a 15 minute snooze

Wearing comfy cozy clothes

Watching your favorite tv show

Sketching/ Drawing

Painting your nails

Rearrange your skincare draw

10 Minute dance break

Aerobics class

Zumba dance class

Staring out the window

Stop thinking and being present in the moment

Clean your space

Plant seeds in your garden

Stand outside in the rain

Talk to people

Sing like your on stage

Let out a cry

Try on your favorite outfits

Listen to a podcast or audio book

Run on the treadmill

Do a 10 step skin care routine

Reading a chapter of a book

Once you find a Daily Act that resonates with you, don’t be afraid to add it to your calendar, agenda or even a sticky note. Make the time for yourself – start with 10 minutes each day, sneak away and just listen to your heart. Sometimes that’s all it takes to promote your self-care and be well. Once you form a habit, it will be hard to stop and each day that little thing you do for yourself – that Daily Act – well, you will look forward to it as the day starts, sparking that inner joy that was beneath all those mundane tasks.

You got this Rakstars!

: Photo by Oleksandr P

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Bathing Bliss (Step by Step Guide to Relax)

The Rakstar — Sun, 04 Aug 2024 17:40:32 +0000

View this: the world outside fades away as you step into your personal oasis, a haven of warmth and serenity—your beautiful bathtub. In this haven, time slows down. You find yourself immersed in a soothing blend of relaxation, a good book, a warm drink and dare we say fragrant flower petals. Welcome to Self-Care!

Draw a warm bath, one that’s just the right temperature. Immerse yourself in soothing waters to melt your worries and stressors away. Be a Queen or a King by adding a handful of fragrant rose petals, to create a spa-like ambiance right in your bathroom. You are regal after all.
Choose your escape by selecting a good book to another world. Forget that daily grind. Submerge into a gripping novel, maybe a cozy mystery or a self-help gem—the choice is yours! The best way to make sure those pages do not get wet is to find yourself a waterproof e-reader, like the Kindle Oasis, so you can fully immerse yourself in your literary escape without worrying about water damage.
Sip and Savour this bliss because that’s what a bath is all about. Brew your favourite herbal tea or prepare a rich favourite drink. Consider investing in a spill-proof mug, such as the Yeti Rambler, to ensure your drink stays in the cup.
Luxuriate yourself as you sink into the bath, book in one hand, warm mug in the other and rose petals adrift, close your eyes for a moment. Yes, take a deep breath, feel those stressors of the day start to dissolve. Breathe in the subtle scent of the petals, letting their aroma whisk you away to a peaceful scene.

Links to Your Relaxation Luxuriate

Rose Petals: Transform your bathtub into a floral paradise.
Kindle Oasis: Your waterproof portal to countless literary adventures.
Yeti Rambler: Keep your beverage warm, no spills allowed.

The Power of Self-Care

Rakstars, it is important to take time for yourself. Try having a luxurious bath-time ritual. This is an investment in you – your well-being. When you take care of yourself, you can alleviate burnout and stress and be more uniquely yourself. Your productivity soars, your body is rested and you can fly (okay, so maybe that is more of a metaphor – don’t actually try to). This is a reminder that you deserve moments of self-indulgence. As you soak in the warm water, can you feel yourself nurturing your mind, body and soul.

So Rakstars, when life feels overwhelming, remember that your sanctuary awaits, along with petals, pages and the promise of calm. Let the stressors melt away in the soothing embrace of your bathtub bathing bliss.

: Photo by Monstera Production

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Corporate Girl Evening Self-Care Routine

The Rakstar — Sun, 14 Jul 2024 19:49:21 +0000

As the day goes dark and it’s nearly time for night night. Not a soul is out on the street, all are in their homes, what are they doing one may ask? Well, that’s easy. They are indulging in their evening self-care routine!

As dinner ends, I gently wind-down. I begin by slowing my pace and finish up the dishes. I like to indulge in aromatherapy using calming scents of lavender or chamomile essential oils. One drop in a diffuser and it helps to create a tranquil atmosphere, ready for relaxation. I like to treat myself on the weekends to a warm bubble bath filled with epsom salts, essential oils and some rose petals. We are royal, aren’t we? The hot bath washes away the stress from the week, leaving me fresh and renewed.

I do like to disconnect from the screen at least an hour before bedtime to give my eyes a break and a mind to relax. Although sometimes, I do get obsessed with binge watching my favourite shows, I know my body is tired and thus, be strict on myself to turn off any blue screen devices.

I change into my cozy pajamas, something soft and comfortable marks the transition that soon it will be bedtime. I warm the kettle, placing a chamomile tea bag or a hibiscus tea bag in my teacup – soothing me from the inside for a restful night.

As I lay in bed, I like to take a few minutes to practice mindful breathing, inhaling the calm and exhaling the tension. This helps to present me in the present moment.

I dim the lights opting for a softer warm tone so that it’s not hard on my eyes and it signals to my brain that it’s time to wind down. I keep a journal by my bedside and jot down some thoughts that come to mind or any stressors where I can release whatever my mind has been holding on to.

At last, I hold my book and smell the pages. Something on paper filled with stories allows me to transition to the full state of relaxation. I change up my books – sometimes it’s novels, self-help or a classic. Anything of interest.

Finally, when my yawns appear to be present, I place the book on my side table, flop my pillow down and hit the lights for a restorative sleep.

Good Night! Sweet Dreams, Rakstars.

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Corporate Girl Morning Self-Care Routine

The Rakstar — Sun, 14 Jul 2024 19:42:45 +0000

Hey Rakstars,

We all have the morning routine, whether it’s jumping out of bed and dashing into our clothes, running out of the door with a coffee in our hands or it’s sleeping in and snoozing for the rest of the day. Whatever your day may look like – there should always be time for self-care.

Have you ever tried to start your day with tranquility? Be in the zen zone! It is possible. With a little bit of time management skills, you can plan your morning. After all, incorporating self-care in the morning sets your tone for the day.

Do you want to be a happier person and smile at the crowd or a grumpy person who can’t wait till they sleep again? The choice is yours.

If you’re in doubt, try it for yourselves. Here is my self-care routine. I hope it helps.

Soothing sounds of my alarm clock drizzle in. I slowly open my eyes lying on my back staring at the ceiling. I take some time to stretch and adjust my eyes. I slowly wake up. It’s important to gently get up to prevent any stress in the body.

I sit on the edge of my bed and take a few minutes of deep intentional breathing. Inhaling positivity and exhaling any tension.

I have been in love with morning stretches. It is something that is so peaceful yet encouraging for the muscles to move. I stretch my body slowly, reaching for the sky – reaching for all those dreams to turn to reality and then twist gently from side to side. Another stretch I love is rolling my shoulders to release any overnight stiffness.

I don’t have an obsession with coffee – at least not yet. I like to sip on a warm cup of herbal tea, sometimes green tea and sometimes hibiscus, for whichever mood I am in. It is important to hydrate yourself in the mornings and the warmth of the hot drink comforts me.

I like to take a warm shower in the mornings, letting the warmth soothe me for the day ahead. I like to use a fragrant shower gel, it makes me feel happy and smells good.

I put on my skincare – the serums, the creams and all the fun and good stuff. I like to change my routine up for spontaneity as it always depends on the mood I am in. Sometimes, I go full force and work on those 10+ steps or I like to be minimal and cut back depending on my time. Either way, I like to indulge and pamper myself.

I’m obsessed with dressing comfortably, wearing something that makes me feel good. This comfort contributes to my overall sense of well-being and it stimulates my mind that I got this. I put on a cozy top (love long sleeves so that I am never cold) and stretchy pants. That is the golden outfit for me.

For breakfast, I like to prepare a nourishing wholesome meal such as oatmeal, fresh fruit and coconut yogurt, sunny side eggs or a smoothie. Whatever is quick and easy for that day.

My biggest love for the mornings is spending a few moments outside. The trees are tall where I live and so I like to just stand outside and view nature. Squirrels hopping around each tree, baby chipmunks running from bush to busy and a bunny rabbit with a brown pom pom tail. I feel that it’s important to connect with the world around me as it makes me feel grounded. Try it for yourself and see the difference it has on your day.

I sit at my desk and repeat positive affirmations to myself reminding me that I am capable and strong and can get through anything that comes my way. This helps to set a positive tone and a positive mindset.

I love to journal, where I jot down my thoughts, my goals and aspirations. I like to fill in my to do list for the day at this time and write down some things that I am grateful for. It really helps to put you in your mindspace.

It is important to create a calming serene space around you that promotes positivity, calmness and motivation. Adding plants or soft lighting and even decluttering can help you achieve those goals.

Whenever I feel like I am losing hope or am just out of it, I like to play gentle music or even a meditation – just to calm my racing thoughts. Or sometimes when I am stressed up, I do the complete opposite and listen to rap music shouting out the lyrics. It works, trust me!

And that’s it, Rakstars. My morning routine. Having a self-care routine is an act of love for yourself. Remember that a routine is all about nurturing yourself while being regal, ambient and kind. Having an established self-care routine can help inspire you and set a peaceful tone for the day, enjoying the calm energy it brings.

: Photo by Marcus Aurelius

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Acne? Who Me?

The Rakstar — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 20:10:08 +0000

Rising Above the Stigma

Disclosure: An Open Conversation About Acne. Not meant to hurt anyone’s feelings. This is just a rant – an opinion piece.

We want to make it clear that our intention here is not to hurt or offend anyone. The Rakstar understands that acne is a sensitive topic and we want to create a safe and supportive space for discussion and reflection.

“Don’t judge me. I see you’re rolling your eyes up and down at my face. It’s obvious and quite rude. I don’t say anything because frankly I don’t want to get into the whole situation. Maybe you feel sorry for me and maybe just maybe you are thankful it’s not you. Maybe you feel better, high and mighty and think you can rule me. But listen, you can’t. Acne is not some sort of disease that you need to step 10 feet away from me. No, it is not caused by eating bad greasy food or that we are dirty people. No, it’s not that we pick our skin or that we don’t wash our face. No, acne is something we are going through. Please we do not need your unsolicited advice. I have a dermatologist for that, thank you very much. Yes, I do feel insecure about it and it’s not because of me. It’s because of you. The way you look at me as if I am an alien from outer space. No I am human, thanks for asking. When I am alone, I’m calm. I’m fine. When I’m out with others, I’m self-conscious – waiting just waiting for someone to say something. Please don’t. If I want to ask for your help, I will ask.”

Have you ever felt the weight of judgmental stares and unwanted advice pouring your way? You are definitely not alone. Acne is a tear of hearts that many of us go through but it does not… I repeat Rakstars…does not define who we are. Let’s set the record straight in a supportive space so that we each can feel better about ourselves and our skin.

Stigma?

Let’s talk about the zebra in the room—those judgmental stares and eye rolls and condescending tone. Yes! You’ve seen it and unfortunately, we have all been there. It’s as if having acne is some sort of disease where we are put under a microscope for everyone to just scrutinize and think they are better. But here’s the truth, Acne, as scary as it may sound, is not a contagious disease and it’s definitely not a reflection of our hygiene nor our lifestyle choices. Yep you heard right!

Misconceptions!

Acne often gets a bad reputation where people think it’s caused by us eating greasy food, being dirty or not taking care of our skin. Really you don’t say? (We can be condescending too, if we wanted but we are kind) If it was that easy to get rid of Acne, don’t you think we would be taking care of all those things by now? But let’s remove these myths once and for all. Acne is known medically as Acne vulgaris – a skin condition which is influenced by genetics, hormones and other factors. It’s not our fault that we have acne and we shouldn’t feel ashamed or embarrassed of it.

The Unsolicited Advice!

Ah, the unsolicited advice. You have heard it! Haven’t you?

“You should eat more vegetables.”

“You should wash your face with cold water.”

“You should stop eating chocolate.” (Never!)

“When my cousin’s daughter’s best friend’s cat’s friend’s neighbor’s daughter had acne – she used this special cream that was found in the Amazon forest – you should try it. It cleared her skin in a day.” (Really, Aunt Marge – thank goodness you are not a Doctor.)

We’ve all been there, Rakstars. Friends, family members and even strangers offering their “miracle” solutions to our acne misery woes. But here’s the deal and don’t take this the wrong way. We have dermatologists and medical estheticians for that. We’ve got our skin care routines in check and we’re doing our best to manage our acne. We appreciate your concern (not really), but please respect our choices and our boundaries. And as much as you think that giving your advice is helping it has the opposite effect, making us feel more conscious about our skin. The fact that you brought it up makes us feel that we are looking like a giraffe at a penguin park.

Emotions ride the Rollercoaster

Acne can bolt us down on the rollercoaster called Our Self-esteem. This is not because of us. It’s because of how others perceive us. The way people look at us. The judgmental looks! The whispered comments! All of it adds up. When we are alone, we can be at peace with ourselves, but in social situations, we often become self-conscious, waiting for someone to say something mean or hurtful or give that unsolicited advice or just stare at the pimple itself like it will magically pop. So here’s a simple request: please don’t. If we need advice, we will reach out. In the meantime, a little empathy and some understanding can go a long way. It’s not easy having Acne.

Empowerment & Self-Love

Living with acne is definitely a rollercoaster that doesn’t end straight away. It is not something that can be cured overnight, but it doesn’t define our worth. Rakstars, we are so much more than our skin. So why can’t we support each other, lift each other up and remember that we’re all humans with beautiful experiences. Acne is just one chapter of our story and you know what, you know what (added for dramatic effect), we are the authors of our own lives.

Rakstars, remember that you are beautiful, both inside and out. Don’t let the judgments and misconceptions of other people dim your light. You are a full LED light bulb okay! You’ve got this. Embrace yourself and don’t be afraid to ask if you need help. Love Yourself! Rakstars, we can rise above the Acne stigma and we can create a world where we feel comfortable in our very own skin. You are beautiful with or without Acne, don’t you ever forget that!

: Photo by Anna Nekrashevich

: Photo by Ron Lach

: Photo by cottonbro studio

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Unlocking Inner Beauty: What I Wish I Was vs. What I Am

The Rakstar — Sat, 25 May 2024 20:35:06 +0000

Embrace Your Unique Self for Confidence and Happiness

You have a list, don’t you?

Come on, I know you do.

Don’t remember what I’m talking about?

Let me remind you.

The list you have about what you want to look like. Maybe it’s being tall or being skinny or maybe having big shoulders. Physical attributes that you know you can’t change. Our perceived imperfections. Perceived. You ask someone about you being short and they will say they love it. But you don’t. You ask someone about your weight and they will say it’s the same as theirs. You ask someone about your big shoulders and they will say they never noticed. Are imperfections may just be… perfections?

Let’s talk about something that’s been on our minds, some point or another. The way we look. Yes, our appearances. You, your friend, your parents, your teachers, your doctors, your dentist and even your neighbour.

Now do you remember that mental checklist of what you wish you looked like, the physical attributes you’d like to change, the “ideal” versions of ourselves that we imagine. But have you ever stopped to think about whether these perceived imperfections are really imperfections at all?

Skinnier?

Prettier?

Taller?

So what’s on your list? Did you think about it when you looked at yourself in the mirror?

Maybe you wish you were taller, skinnier or had perfect skin. It’s natural to have these thoughts. We all do. But here’s the thing: these are just perceptions, not facts. What you might see as imperfections aka things you don’t like, others might see as beautiful quirks that make you exceptionally you.

Have you ever asked someone else about these perceived flaws? I bet if you did, their response would surprise you. They might tell you that they love your height or that they don’t even notice that it’s a flaw. You see Rakstars, the imperfections we obsess over are often the very things that make us stand out in a crowd, like a Rockstar!

Pause for a moment and look at yourself in the mirror or in the camera app on your phone. Seriously, go ahead, take a look. Do you see yourself? Not just your reflection, but the real you! The you that’s made up of so much more than just an appearance. If you can look in that mirror and love what you see, confidence overrides insecurities and the right people will love it too.

Beauty is what radiates from our hearts and souls. Guess what? The more you embrace and enjoy your inner beauty, the more confident you will become in owning those perceived imperfections.

You are not a robot, nor are you an alien. So why on Earth would you act like one? We’re all human and that means we come in all shapes, sizes and colors. It’s time to stop stressing over what you can’t control and only focus on what you can.

Remember Rakstars, you have the power to change some things, like adopting healthier habits, exercising and staying hydrated. Taking care of yourself.

As for those perceived imperfections, you think are imperfections, well, they’re just that: perceived. No one ever said they were imperfections except for you. However, if someone does happen to make a negative comment about something you’re self-conscious about, remember, the issue might not be your “imperfection” but rather their insensitivity (or maybe just themselves in general).

So let’s be real, Rakstars, you are who you are. Celebrate this! Love your unique qualities and don’t stress on what you can’t control. Those perceived imperfections, remember, are just perceived. No one said it was an imperfection but you. Surround yourself with people who appreciate you for you and say bye to those who don’t. If someone does say something about it – use your better judgment. This perceived imperfection is not the problem, maybe hanging out with them is?

The only real imperfection here might be spending time with people who can’t see your inner beauty. Why hang out with people who put you down? Adios Amigos!

Rakstars, it’s your confidence, your kindness and your inner beauty that truly define you. So, let your light shine, because you are more than enough. It’s time to love yourself and your perceived imperfections. At the end of the day, you are a Rakstar!

You’ve got this! 💪😊

: Photo by Eric Torres

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