As much as I enjoy writing about aesthetics, I am also devoted to interpreting and finding meaning in everything (sometimes where there really is none, too). I realize it is my responsibility to give you advice about the extras, the add-ons, the controversial and sometimes superficial things, and I would like to dedicate this article to emphasizing the wellness aspect of my column and what it means to me.
Since my little obsession with beauty and skincare started, I have been interested to figure out why it means so much to me. I loved setting aside time to come up with this whole morning and nighttime routine, and I had a genuine curiosity as to why I placed value on something others could easily deem as shallow. After giving (probably too much) thought on this topic, my philosophy regarding beauty circulates around one major idea: we all have bad days; we let little things affect us, and I want to focus on how little things can also save us.
It’s almost guaranteed that growing up and gaining experience means doubting oneself at least a few times through the obstacles we face. Relevant to this column, consider the example of body image. Eating disorders amongst men and women are more prevalent in our generation today than ever before, with 86% of women surveyed on a college campus admittedly reporting the onset of an eating disorder by age 20 (Anad, 2014). There is no doubt that with the growing number of media outlets and advanced accessibility, people adapt to, or become so used to, being influenced by flawed advertising. While I understand I do not exert control over the disturbingly large number of thinspiration blogs, I can control myself. In a time period where body acceptance is frustratingly rare, adding on a body care routine can be surprisingly beneficial. I believe in caring for your body simply because it allows you to see yourself in a different light. This is different from excessively working out or obsessively eating to try and change something. This is simply lighting candles and feeling clean and cozy before bed. This is a hot bath with sweet smells and relaxing music, all of which do not have the power to cut and carve you into your ideal body. However, they allow you to practice seeing yourself naked and feeling okay with it. To note, I absolutely advocate working out and eating healthy if done for the health benefits rather than the number on a scale. A number is not a defining measure.
Loving your body is a process, but in my opinion, it’s more about accepting your body and allowing yourself the strength to be vulnerable–staring at a mirror–in front of yourself. Who ever would have thought that one of the most excruciatingly vulnerable, and somehow terrifying, moments would be standing up and physically facing oneself? I continuously hear of people shaming themselves–and evidently reflecting this shame on others–about weight, shape and physical characteristics. And I feel as though this issue is consistent with my column.
I don’t give makeup advice on how to mask your features. My only intent is to provide interesting techniques on how to enhance them. I don’t believe luxury products will immediately solve a deep-rooted problem such as body dysmorphia, but I do believe it’s one step forward if practiced in conjunction with other therapies. Spending extra time caring for my exterior turned out to be its own therapeutic treatment. The goal is not to change my body but to respect it. I hope to share products and advice that support this theory on the positive effect of purposeful body care rituals on body acceptance. Take this advice how you will; you do not need to develop a diligent routine each morning and night but rather whatever you feel suits your lifestyle best.
I will admit beauty definitely falls into the category of “little things”, but depending on its purpose, it’s not necessarily always an insignificant or a superficial thing. We have one life and one body, and it’s okay to do what’s necessary in order to appreciate them. It is essential that we allow ourselves the experience of indulgence with each. Express your gratitude personally. That’s truly significant.