Navigating Life’s Curveballs: Finding Beauty in the Struggle
Hey family! Welcome back to the Stay Juicy blog. Today’s topic, which is all about navigating life when it’s “lifeing.” I’m talking about those moments when everything just seems to pile up and you feel like you’re on the struggle bus. If you caught this week’s episode of the Stay Juicy podcast, you already know the incredible stories and experiences I shared from my aesthetic practice. But if you missed it, no worries—I’ve got all the juicy details right here for you.
The Magic of Transformation
On Fridays, my practice turns into a sanctuary for aesthetic treatments. It’s a magical day for me. Women (and some men) come in for Botox, fillers, or just a little touch-up before a big event. However, it’s never just about the superficial beauty. The real transformation happens when these amazing souls realize they need their spirits uplifted even more than their appearances. One patient in particular, a nearly 40-year-old mother of four children under the age of seven, really touched my heart.
She came in feeling the weight of her world. Just listening to her day exhausted me! But as I encouraged her to look in the mirror and appreciate her beauty and all she’s accomplished, something magical happened. We did less than what she intended for the day, but she left feeling inspired. And that, for me, is more important than any business metric.
Real Talk: The Challenges We All Face
This week was particularly reflective for me. I encountered another patient who had gone through a divorce, was laid off, and was battling depression and perimenopause. She came in wanting all sorts of aesthetic treatments, but as we talked, it became clear she needed more than a superficial makeover. We delved into her hormonal imbalances and mental health, aiming to get her the help she really needed.
It’s important to listen to your body and mind. If you’re feeling irritable, overwhelmed, or depressed, particularly if you’re a woman between the ages of 35 and 60, it’s worth considering if hormonal changes could be a contributing factor. Sometimes, it’s about more than just aesthetics. It’s about recognizing the deeper issues and taking meaningful steps to address them.
Self-Care Strategies
So how do you manage life when it’s throwing you all sorts of curveballs? Here are four strategies that I find incredibly helpful:
- Journaling: Write down your thoughts to get clarity. This helps you see patterns and reflect on what you’re really feeling.
- Meditation: Even if you think you can’t meditate, you can. Think of it as observing your thoughts, like watching clouds float by. It’s about noticing rather than eliminating distractions.
- Self-Care Routine: Don’t underestimate the power of consistent self-care. Whether it’s yoga, a morning routine, or just making sure you’re eating well, these habits can make life’s challenges more manageable.
- Sleep: This might sound basic, but trust me—lack of sleep can turn molehills into mountains. Prioritize your bed time like your life depends on it (because it kind of does!).
Facing Unwanted Change
Life is full of transitions—some wanted and some definitely not. A client whose son came back home after dropping out of college and another dealing with a rebellious teenager brought this point home for me. It’s frustrating and can make you question everything, but it’s important to remember that everyone’s path is their own. You can only do your best and try to support them without losing yourself in the process.
The Elephant in the Room: Hormones and Mental Health
Especially for women, hormonal changes can really mess with your mental health. If you’re feeling unusually down, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Balance your hormones, see a therapist regularly, and consider all avenues for proper treatment.
Final Thoughts
No matter what life is throwing at you right now, know that you’re not alone. Take time to honor where you are, how far you’ve come, and what you’re dealing with right now. Life’s journey isn’t just about milestones and accomplishments; it’s also about the valleys and the struggles.
So, let’s do the work. Let’s be intentional about our growth and self-care. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Keep journaling, meditating, sticking to your self-care routine, and most importantly, sleeping well.
Stay brilliant. Stay beautiful. But most of all, stay juicy. Until next time, take care of yourself!