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Businesswoman feeling lost and lonely

What is it that we See, when we feel Lost and Lonely?

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For only happiness rains, when you are in spirits of joy. A feeling so high above the water, that one day, you feel as if you are a fast car running off the bridge only to be saved by a gravitational force. Moments of love, identity and a cup of coffee – bring warmth, but what about the other joys? Is there joy in feeling lost and lonely? It is often quite comforting but the sound of silence, feathers away your thoughts, just hearing nothing but silence. A way to teach your mind to shut it. Looking at your surroundings, noticing the tiniest of details like a crack in the molding or a stain on the floor, lets you sit and ponder. 

Feeling lost and lonely isn’t something to be sad about. It is something to embrace and feel happy. This is the time where we search for the answer, it is the climax of the story, the shifting moment in time that cannot be lost or surrendered. This is the gazing point to the tip of the highest mountain, you are already there, no force can change that but you. 

Are you ready to take the next stance?

Hit the highest level.

Stand far from the ground. 

Hit a tornado or two but still rise for the challenge?

Do you have the ground running or are you running the ground?

This is the moment to not feel sorry for yourself. This is the moment to exaggerate your presence of self-obsession, self-confidence, self-care, self- you. You are in this moment of loneliness so you can figure it out on your own. Don’t let feeling down make you a victim. Feeling down is what the hero needs for their transformation. You are the hero of your own story. You are the Rakstar that you set out to be. No one can change that. You walk the streets with the crown on your head, you light up the world with your presence and you are always kind. 

So shine bright like a diamond!

Businesswoman feeling lost and lonely
Photo by Los Muertos Crew

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The Daily Act

The Daily Act

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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!

The Daily Act
Photo by Oleksandr P

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Calm Energy

Creating Calm Energy

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Creating Calm Energy

In the pace of our fast, often busy, very busy, extremely busy lives, achieving a state of calm can feel like a dream that will never see fruition. The hustle and bustle of everyone’s daily routines whether it’s going to school or work pressures – the never ending demands can leave us yearning for a sense of peace and tranquility – a beach vacation. A feeling where you just want to snuggle up to a good book, read beneath the stars and call it a day. But, in reality, our lives are far different than that of our wants. Rakstars, let’s create calm energy—something that can help us achieve a balanced and harmonious life.

The Essence

What is calm energy? Why do we need to be calm? What is the purpose of calm energy? What does it truly entail? It’s not about suppressing your emotions or becoming a yoga master overnight. Instead, calm energy is all about learning a state of mind that empowers you to live your life while navigating your life’s challenges with a good mindset.

Mastering the Calm Energy

Here are some actionable strategies that can help you master your calm energy:

1. Mindful Mornings: When you wake up and take in that sunshine. Remember to breathe and smile. Meditation or deep breathing exercises can help encapsulate a positive and serene tone for the hours ahead.

 

2. Declutter Your Environment: A messy, cluttered space can often lead to a cluttered mind. Take the time to tidy up your surroundings, creating a sense of calm and order. When everything is organized and placed in the proper spot, it makes life a little easier. Making you keep calm and carry on. 

 

3. The Breath: Deep and intentional breathing can help you throughout your day. This simple practice can serve as a support or a grounding mechanism so you can feel level headed amidst life’s challenges.

 

4. Nature Time: When you delve into natural surroundings, it can help to recharge your inner calm energy. Try taking regular walks in the park or simply find a quiet spot in your garden and sit. Take in the air and breathe and let your mind wonder. It feels good. 

 

5. Digital Detox: Try to spend at least one hour away from any screens. It’s hard these days because you can’t operate anything or do anything without one. Keep it simple. Take a look at your surroundings and just relax. Forget about the pings and the messages and the emails and the new posts. In fact, take a break right now before you read the rest of this post. Here, I will keep a bookmark right here so when you come back from your break you know where you left off.

 

***START HERE***

 

Welcome back, how did you like it? Feel more refreshed! We sure hope you do!

 

It is important to recognize the impact of digital devices on your peace of mind, especially before bedtime. No one wants to think of work before going night night. Limit your screen time so that you can have a more restful and calm night’s sleep.

 

6. Healthy Lifestyle Choices: It is important to prioritize your well-being by living a wholesome lifestyle. Remember Rakstars, this includes nourishing your body with healthy foods, regular workouts, and ensuring you get enough sleep.

 

7. The Gratitude Gift: Create a gratitude journal to shift your focus toward the positive aspects of your life. Sometimes we delve too much in the negative that we forget about us and all the good things that have happened. For example, when you woke up in the morning you had that amazing matcha latte – let’s be grateful to our barista for making it wonderful! Expressing our gratitude can help to foster a sense of calm contentment and appreciation.

So there you have it, Rakstars, the pursuit of calm energy. This is an absolute necessity not a luxury. Try to create inner peace within you, by remembering that you’re not only enhancing and making your life better but also becoming a source of inspiration for those around you.

If you are calm, so will others. You can create a ripple effect of calm and balance creating a better world. Rakstars, are you ready? Share your gift of calm to others.

Calm Energy
Photo by Kelsey Erin Sky

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Bathing bliss - step by step to help relax

Bathing Bliss (Step by Step Guide to Relax)

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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!

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.

Bathing bliss - step by step to help relax
Photo by Monstera Production

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Pay yourself first

Pay Yourself First

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Why do people have a world of luxury? I’m saving so much but I can’t afford what others have? 

No. 1: Don’t compare what you have and what others have? Your life is not the same as them, nor your neighbour. You do you boo.

No. 2: Are you paying yourself first? No, well, read below: 

The Power of Paying Yourself First

Financial freedom is a life we all dream of. But there are ways to achieve it and there are steps that need to be taken. Nothing is as easy as a blink of an eye, but through the test of time, paying yourself first is unlike no other advice we hear. 

What does it mean to Pay Yourself First? 

Paying yourself. You like the sound of it. So do I. It is the concept of taking a percentage of your income to a YOU account. So essentially, it now becomes part of your expenses. You take your income minus all your expenses including a percentage that you allocate to yourself. This way the money you take from the percentage is now focused on you. This shifts the approach from just spending on whatever and whenever to intentional wealth-building.

Pros of Paying Yourself First

Discipline

In a vast society of many many things, when we prioritize ourselves, we live in a world where we want to be strategic with our money. Who doesn’t like spending money on themselves? You are forced to live within your means while working towards your financial goals. The practice of budgeting and training yourself, where every penny goes, make you more financially conscious about your spending habits, thus investing the money you save for yourself, for something you most desire. 

Wealth though Time

Let’s just say you take the amount you pay yourself and throw it into an investment account where compound interest works its magic wand. You have now paid yourself more money. Thus building your one stop step to the wealth machine. 

Emergency Fund

This is your BFF. When you pay yourself first, this allows you to maintain that emergency fund because you can contribute to it. Have that peace of mind and reduce your stress load from any unexpected expenses that could have negative consequences on the money side of things.. 

Mindset Change

When you prioritize yourself and your needs. You are no longer poor. That’s right, Rakstars. You are not poor. You have an abundance of resources at your fingertips. You pay yourself which means you are empowered. You are no longer an observer, you are an architect building that life you so desire. Your mind opens up to all wonders and you can do what you imagined you couldn’t before. Go ice skating, treat yourself to the amusement park or buy that designer item you had your eye on. 

 

Tips for Implementing “Pay Yourself First”

Set Your Financial Goals

What is your short-term financial goal? 

What is your long-term financial goal?

Examples can include: Luxury handbag, payment on a house, emergency fund, maybe you want to start thinking about retirement. I know I do!

Automation can be your Friend

We can’t simply remember that the 15th of every month and the last day of every month is pay day! So many things happen in life and it gets crazy busy. Try to make the process smooth by setting an automatic transfer to a different account, so that you can watch it grow. 

Beginning will be small

At first, setting everything up and allocating a portion/percentage of the income may be small amounts. That’s okay. You’ve started. This is the main thing! When your income grows, you grow as a person – you will see, so will the amount and value you get for paying yourself first.

Rakstars, paying yourself first is an opportunity to invest in yourself. Whether it’s going to conferences, learning a new instrument or purchasing something you had your eye on, you are allowed to prioritize your wellbeing. By making choices and laying out a concrete foundation for your wealth by paying yourself first. Not only are you going to live the life you dreamed but you will enjoy it. You don’t have to wait till your 99 in retirement to enjoy life. Enjoy it now!

Pay yourself first
Photo by Karolina Kaboompics

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Person writing in a journal

Corporate Girl Evening Self-Care Routine

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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. 

Person writing in a journal

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Lady in pj sipping on hot drink

Corporate Girl Morning Self-Care Routine

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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. 

 

Lady in pj sipping on hot drink
Photo by Marcus Aurelius

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Lady looking at herself in the mirror while spraying her face

Spray My Face…Please

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In the world of skincare, innovation develops to rejuvenate and refresh our skin. Our beautiful faces that we so ever please for hydration and good looks. One amazing addition to our never ending skincare routine because come on let’s face it – skincare has become the new self-care. Drum roll please….The Face spray. A burst of hydration, a touch of soothing luxury and a hint of science—all bundled up together in a beautiful fine refreshing mist.

The Science of Thermal Face Sprays

At first, you think it’s just water. Why on earth would you pay x amount for water in a bottle for your face? Dollar store DIY anyone? But let me tell you, thermal face sprays are not just water in a bottle…it’s way more than that. The term “thermal” is derived from the inclusion of thermal spring water in many formulations. This water is sourced from natural springs, which is rich in minerals like selenium, zinc and even silica. These minerals are believed to soothe skin, making thermal face sprays an excellent choice for those with sensitive or cranky skin types.

Fun Fact: Did you know that the thermal water undergoes a unique process from the depths of the earth all the way to your spray bottle? This process keeps the water’s purity and enhances its mineral content, resulting in a product that not only hydrates but also feeds your skin. Pretty cool, huh?

The Multifaceted Benefits

Instant Hydration

Thermal face sprays provide an immediate quench relief which makes this the perfect on-the-go use or a quick pick-me-up during a really long day. You can definitely use it for a pick-me-up whenever and wherever. The fine mist ensures that the skin absorbs the moisture evenly which leaves your skin feeling revitalized and plump.

Soothing Sensation

The minerals in thermal spring water have anti-inflammatory properties. So, whether you’ve spent a day in the sun or your skin is feeling the effects of environmental stressors or maybe real stressors like Susanna in Cubicle B, a thermal face spray can offer relief or fight against those evil looks but unfortunately can’t melt the haters away. 

Setting Makeup

A quick spritz can help set your makeup allowing you to give off a more natural look as well, a dewy finish. Who doesn’t love that? It helps to meld the layers of makeup together and prevents the dreaded cakey look. Yikes!

Travel Essential

Whether you’re jet-setting or enduring a long commute on the train, thermal face sprays are a travel essential. They help combat the dehydrating effects of air travel or long hours in air-conditioned environments. Plus, they can really help to wake you up whether you are in a long boring lecture or are just plain bored at work with tasks that make you want to sleep.

Choosing the Right Thermal Face Spray

Not all thermal face sprays are created equal, so it’s essential to choose one that suits your skin’s needs. Look for products that are free from harsh chemicals as these can counteract the soothing benefits of the thermal water.

Let’s get real here, Rakstars. The thermal face spray is a luxury essential, offering your skin hydration, soothing relief and if I might say, a touch of wonder. So, the next time you feel the need for a skincare refresh, reach for a thermal face spray and let the fine mist work its magic. Your skin will thank you for it! As well, Susana in Cubicle B has got nothing on you!

Our favourite face sprays: 

La Roche Posay Thermal Spring Water

Eau Thermale Avene Thermal Spring Water

Lady looking at herself in the mirror while spraying her face
Photo by Karolina Kaboompics

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Acne? Who me? Rising above the Stig,a

Acne? Who Me?

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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. 

A man with acne wiping his face with a cotton pad

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.

Woman with black hair with acne

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!

Acne? Who me? Rising above the Stig,a
Photo by Anna Nekrashevich
Woman with black hair with acne
Photo by Ron Lach
A man with acne wiping his face with a cotton pad
Photo by cottonbro studio

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Picture of lip balms looking good

Pucker Up or Pout: Lip Balm

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Nourishing Lip Balm, humble and kind. A beauty accessory for all, this plays such an important role in maintaining the softness of our beautiful kind lips. 

Moisture Yes Please

Lip balm’s primary function is the moisture, like literally. It creates a protective barrier so that our lips do not become dry or chapped even in the harsh weather. No hot chocolate is going to moisturize those lips.

Cracking and Peeling:

Lips balm can prevent your lips from peeling. Let’s be honest here, it looks unpleasant when you are talking to someone. Dry lips are not that quite attractive and it can be painful. 

Lip Health

Yes, your lips need to be healthy too. When using ingredients like shea butters, essential oils and beeswax, this can help to keep your lips supple and soft like butter. 

Better for Makeup Application

Lip balm can create a smooth canvas like a baby’s bottom. Any lipstick, lip pencil and lip gloss can glide on for a smoother flawless finish. Plus, it can stay on for a longer period of time. 

Multiuse

Lip Balm is awesome, since you don’t have to use it for your lips. No, Rakstars, you don’t. You can use it for a quick fix for dry cuticles, rough elbows or to even tame the beast (those eyebrows) in a quick fix. 

Rakstars, try out these moisturizing lip balm – they are like a soft cloud or if you want you can create your own.

Sephora: Lip Balm

Amazon: Lip Balm

DIY Lip Balm Recipe:

Person making lip balm DIY with essential oils

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil
  • 1 tablespoon shea butter
  • 1 tablespoon beeswax pellets
  • A few drops of your favorite essential oil for fragrance (e.g., lavender, peppermint)

Instructions:

1. In a heat-resistant bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of coconut oil, 1 tablespoon of shea butter, and 1 tablespoon of beeswax.

2. Heat the mixture in a microwave or on a stovetop until fully melted.

3. Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil and stir well.

4. Pour the mixture into small containers and let it solidify before using.

Lip balm is a daily essential for beautiful and dare I say kissable lips. Dry Air Winter season or Scorching Sun season, lip balm is meant for all seasons. Use it as a secret weapon and create your own customized to your liking. Rakstars, smile with confidence.

Picture of lip balms looking good
Photo by Antoni Shkraba
Person making lip balm DIY with essential oils
Photo by Ron Lach

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