As I lean more toward being a creative rather than a logical person, I tend to cringe a bit at the confines of a routine. I love the in-the-moment freedom of expression, as it allows me to have more of an organic output. There is that iconic Mean Girls quote, “On Wednesdays, we wear pink,” but what if you don’t feel like wearing pink that day? Some will know what I mean, while others will find comfort in expectations. I get it.
However disinclined I am to stick to a plan, I do enjoy a good daily ritual, such as the pleasure of a cup of my favorite morning beverage or simple sweeps of fresh and beautiful makeup. I also love the wellness boosts I routinely seek out when in need.
I love sharing what I love. My grandfather taught me early in life that it is better to give than to receive. This month’s essentials were at the top of the list, as I’ve been excited to share them for some time. While I appreciate letting go and experiencing life as it comes, perhaps I am more of a planner than I realize. One thing is for sure: You can expect some fabulous and science-backed essentials this month.
THE ESSENTIALS
My Mini Dream Palette
The pendulum of eyeliner has had a lot of movement over the last few years, swinging from bold lines to nothing at all. I have toyed around with going sans eyeliner, however, I do seem to feel my prettiest with it on. My favorite everyday makeup look over the last few months utilizes a Natasha Denona eyeshadow powder as a liner. I love using this technique to give a French, diffused, Angelina Jolie-esque smoky line. Using the shade “Loyalty,” a matte, deep burgundy brown, I pack the shadow onto a liner brush and tap the excess off. Then, I gently tap and sweep the brush along my top eyelash line, giving a soft wing at the end. It’s beautiful and chic and a perfect compromise. Available on natashadenona.com
L’Oréal Lumi Le Glass Highlighter Stick
While you’re collecting ingredients for tonight’s dinner from the store, you can also scoop up a highlighter that is having a viral moment…and with good reason. With this product, there is no beginning or end; it’s just a glassy pop of light on your skin. This highlighter delivers a reflective, glassy finish with multi-dimensional glow. The technology of Lumi Le Glass Highlighter is just so good. I swipe it on my cheekbones, down my nose, a bit along my cupid’s bow and along my collarbone. I’m loving shade 610 Glassy Pearl Éclat. Available at H-E-B
Dr. Singha’s Mustard Bath
A hot soak in a mustard bath is a relaxing and effective remedy to help my skin eliminate and release impurities. Once the aromatic powder hits the hot water, the rejuvenating and cleansing qualities of the mustard and essential oils begin to relieve ailments such as sore muscles, stress, congestion and sleeplessness. You’ll want the water to be tolerably hot and allow yourself time to spend at least 20 minutes soaking. A mustard bath is my go-to after a tennis match or during an illness. Glucosinolates, the natural compounds found in mustard, have healing properties that are anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antibacterial. Available at Walmart
SurvIVe Infusion & Wellness
I had the pleasure of meeting SurvIVe CEO Andrea Holley in 2018. Holley has incredibly impressive credentials and offers a variety of services specially crafted to rejuvenate and rehydrate. As a regular pick-me-up, I enjoy getting the Brain and Cell Boost in a Refresh Infusion for cellular repair and to improve brain fog. It feels empowering to advocate for myself on my terms when I am sick and can get an IV infusion. I get the hydration and nutrients in the comfort of their office without having to go through hospital registration and discharge. Recently, I had a close loved one receive a cancer diagnosis. As we await his appointment in Houston, we are leaning into a holistic approach, utilizing SurvIVe’s High Dose Vitamin C infusion protocol. Please check with your health provider prior to trying something new. Available at 14330 S Padre Island Dr
Nandaka
I’ve been on a coffee alternative journey for a while now, and for the past 14 months, Pique’s Nandaka has stood out above the rest. I’ve noticed improved mental clarity, a better mood and smoother digestion since I started drinking it. Made with ceremonial cacao from the Andes of Peru, Chaga from Siberia and anti-inflammatory Ayurvedic spices from Sri Lanka and India, it’s crafted with purity and potency in mind. Nandaka is Triple Toxin Screened, organic, vegan, non-GMO and free of added sugar or artificial ingredients. Thanks to its patented Cold Extraction technology, it delivers maximum phytonutrients in every cup. I genuinely look forward to preparing it hot with honey each morning. Its clean, lightly chocolaty and spiced flavor is a treat. With calm, sustained energy, an activated metabolism and mood-boosting functional mushrooms, Nandaka has become an essential part of my daily ritual. Available online at piquelife.com
