Motherhood & Self-Care: The Moments I Steal for Myself
Motherhood is often framed as an all-consuming role, and for a while, I let it consume me. My baby girl is five now, but when she was born in Dallas, Texas, I had no idea how much life would change. At just four months old, we packed up and moved cross-country in the middle of the pandemic, stepping into uncertainty with no real plan for how it would all unfold.
I wanted to be close to my family, to return to my community, and to finally go back to school. But school was delayed due to COVID, and I found myself spiraling mentally. I was working from home full-time, taking care of my daughter full-time, and completely against daycare—both because of the cost and my own hesitation to leave her in someone else’s care. Looking back, I realize I was slowly losing my sense of self, and the worst part was, I didn’t know how to get it back.
Just after my daughter’s first birthday, my own birthday was coming up—only about two and a half weeks later. And I decided I was done feeling miserable. I needed something to shake me out of survival mode. So, I called up one of my girlfriends and asked if she’d come with me on a wellness retreat for my birthday.
It was going to be my first time away from my daughter, and as most moms do, I felt guilty. That tinge of guilt lingered in the back of my mind, but I didn’t let it stop me. The trip was four days long, and the moment I landed in Arizona, something inside me shifted. It was the first time in what felt like forever that I could hear my own spirit, my own breath, my own presence. I felt peace in a way I had never experienced before—deep, overwhelming gratitude and clarity. It was like stepping into a new life, and in many ways, it was.
Those four days were filled with everything I didn’t realize I was missing: horseback riding in the mountains, hiking, yoga, Pilates, lounging by the pool, eating incredible food, having deep conversations, and just taking in the beauty of my surroundings. I felt whole again. I felt like ME again.
That trip taught me something invaluable: I have to take care of myself. If I am not well—mentally, emotionally, spiritually—then I am not showing up as the best version of myself, and that includes being a mother.
Today, life is even busier. I still work full-time, run my business, and I’m in school full-time. My daughter is older now and in school herself, but my responsibilities have only increased. Even with all of that, I make it a point to carve out time for myself because I know firsthand what happens when I don’t.
The guilt? It doesn’t stand a chance anymore. Because I know this truth: When I take care of myself, my daughter benefits too.
We often believe that being a good mother means giving endlessly, but the reality is, when we are internally falling apart, we are not the present, attentive mothers we think we are. Our children feel that depletion, even when we try to hide it. They deserve better. We deserve better.
Finding balance isn’t always about grand getaways—sometimes, it’s stealing small moments for yourself. Maybe it’s 15 minutes in a room alone, just breathing. Maybe it’s a slow morning with a cup of tea before the day starts. Maybe it’s prioritizing therapy, movement, or a creative outlet. Whatever it looks like for you, know that it matters.
You don’t have to feel guilty for taking care of yourself. When you are good, your babies are better.
So steal those moments, claim them, and never apologize for them. They make all the difference.
A Self-Care Reflection
“‘Me time’ is not selfish, it’s necessary”
A few months ago, I wrote a short post titled "How to Create a Self-Care Routine that Actually Sticks." In it, I recommended starting with your why—why does self-care matter to you? But as I reflect, I realize I didn’t go into detail about why it matters to me. And after all, Evasha Skin is all about self-care.
So, how did we get here?
If you’re new here, welcome. Evasha Skin initially started as a need—a solution to a physical problem. In 2016, I had a terrible eczema flare-up, which launched me into searching for a solution that would work for me. What started as necessity turned into passion, a fuel that lit a fire so bright within me that I had to share it. In 2021, I officially took the dive.
But Evasha Skin is so much more than just a solution to a single problem. It’s a healing environment, a space of intention and care. Yes, I develop products meant to nourish your body, but they are also meant to replenish and nurture your being. Every scent is intentionally selected. Take my best-selling Rose Cardamom Body Butter—it’s not just popular because it smells divine or melts like silk into the skin. The scent of rose is known to be deeply relaxing and a companion in grief. Cardamom is uplifting and promotes relaxation, while the warm, sweet aroma of vanilla has a calming effect on the nervous system, helping to ease stress. Life moves fast these days, and I created these products to encourage a moment of stillness, indulgence, and presence with yourself.
I’m certainly not perfect and sometimes have to be reminded to slow down or to take a little extra care of myself. A friend told me the other day that she still has some of her butter left, and my immediate thought was: HOW? I run through mine so fast! But just as quickly as I had that thought, I was reminded of my own intention. I’ve been reminded often lately to slow down.
One of my favorite ways to unwind is by taking a hot shower and lathering myself in the Rose & Cardamom body butter—I love feeling the butter melt into my skin, the way its aroma wraps around me. Then, I slip into cozy clothes and either curl up with a good book or take a much-needed nap
Self-care is important to me because I cannot pour from an empty cup. I work full-time, I’m in school full-time, and I’m a full-time mother. My responsibilities are many, and I still do my best to make it a point to take some time for me.
It is imperative that you find some way to love and care for yourself. That might look like getting your nails done for some—it might be a trip to therapy, a coffee run to catch your breath, or a long, hot bath followed by a nourishing butter or cream. Whatever self-care looks like for you, I encourage you to prioritize you and carve out time that is just yours.
Navigating Grief: in Real Time
a sea of lit tealight candles
Friday, December 13th, I got the call no one wants to get—the call that changes everything. My Papa had passed away. I was absolutely in denial. I ended the call and immediately made arrangements to get back home as quickly as possible.
The drive felt like a blur. An hour later, pulling up to his complex felt surreal, like I was stepping into a space where time didn’t quite know how to move forward. I didn’t know what I was walking into.
When I arrived, my mom met me with a hug and asked my partner to keep our daughter in the car. My heart dropped—that meant Papa was still inside. Somehow, I was still holding it together. I followed my mom inside. To my right was a police officer (coincidentally) named Chantel, and to my left was the medical examiner.
I’ll spare you the details, but I was able to see Papa one last time and say goodbye, though he was long gone.
To say I miss him doesn’t even begin to cover it. Papa had a presence—one you could feel the second he walked into a room. His voice boomed, commanding attention. He was the kind of man who stayed to himself but loved his family deeply.
He’d tell you he didn’t like you, but the truth was, he loved you a thousand times more. That was Papa—a man of contradictions, humor, and undeniable love.
His absence feels even heavier…
Papa taught me how to fish, cooked the best greens and smoked the greatest ribs. Hearing “Gimme the beat, boys, and free my soul, I wanna get lost in your rock n’ roll…” at any given moment, reminds me of car rides with it blasting from his pickup truck that smelled like tackle boxes and a smoker pit.
I’ll never forget the memories we shared. I have a voicemail from him that makes me laugh and cry. Back in May, I had called him nonstop for two days without a response. When he finally called back, he left me this message:
"Hey baby, ain’t nothing wrong with me. This damn phone cut off, and I didn’t know until this morning. But everything is okay."
These days, I catch myself checking my phone, hoping for a voicemail just like that. But this time, there won’t be one. He’s really gone. And somehow, someway, I think I knew this was coming sooner than I imagined.
Some days, the grief hits like a tidal wave, and all I want to do is curl up in bed and cry until there’s nothing left. Other days, I feel the urge to clean—my car, the house, my purse. When I think of him, I hear his voice: “Go clean something.”
That was classic Papa. If I ever told him, “Papa, I’m bored,” he’d reply, “Nice to meet you, Bored. I’m your Papa. Why don’t you go clean something?” I can still see my younger self rolling my eyes at him and hear his laughter in response.
I also find myself thinking about the things he loved—fishing, music (especially Michael Jackson), westerns—books and novels, Chuck Norris, Steven Seagal, whiskey and Coke, and later, gin and tonic.
People often tell me, “Take care of yourself.” While I know they mean well, it can get exhausting. I understand that not everyone understands grief or knows what to say in the moment. But I do appreciate when people ask about Papa—what he liked, my favorite memory, or my funniest memory with him. Even if I can’t answer in the moment, those questions mean a lot to me. They give me a chance to sit with those memories.
Taking care of myself doesn’t always look like what others expect. Some days, it’s indulging in a distraction, like scrolling through social media (but not too much because that escape can get darker than my reality). Other days, it’s letting myself cry my eyes dry in bed.
I’ve learned that part of self-care is allowing myself to grieve however I need to in the moment. It’s about feeling my feelings, even when they’re hard.
Grief doesn’t get better, but it does get easier to cope with. Whether it’s 8 minutes, 8 days, 8 months, or 8 years later—if you feel like wailing for your loved one, do it.
Papa, you really did it this time. You will be missed more than words can say.
If you’re struggling with the loss of a loved one, know that you’re not alone. Help is available.
Crisis Text Line: Open 24/7. If talking feels overwhelming, you can text Home to 741-741 for immediate support.
National Mental Health Hotline: Confidential and staffed by trained professionals. Available 24/7 to offer support, connect you to grief counseling, or provide other free services. Call (866) 903-3787.
A Sensory Journey
Take a moment and imagine this. Picture the soft glow of candlelight, the gentle hum of your favorite song, and the sensation of satin sheets draping over your skin. This is the essence of our Whipped Body Butter—luxurious, comforting, and deeply nourishing. More than just a product, it’s an invitation to create moments of intimacy with yourself, where care and calm take center stage.
At the heart of this decadent butter lies its unique scent—a blend of cardamom, rose, and vanilla, chosen as much for their aromatic beauty as for their ability to support your emotional and physical well-being.
Cardamom: This warm, spicy note carries a subtle sweetness that feels like a gentle hug. Known as a mood booster, cardamom has the power to calm and center you, making it perfect for grounding moments of self-care.
Rose: Often referred to as the “Queen of flowers,” rose whispers of self-love and acceptance. Its soft, romantic aroma opens your heart, encouraging you to see yourself with kindness and grace.
Vanilla: Who doesn’t adore vanilla? Vanilla feels like a hug in scent form. Its warm embrace eases stress and anxiety, creating a sense of coziness.
When brought together, these notes form a fragrance that soothes and uplifts, turning even the simplest routines into something sacred. Apply it daily to wrap your skin in silk-like softness, or reserve it for those moments when life feels heavy, and you need an intentional pause to refill your cup.
This body butter holds a special place in my heart. From its satin-like texture to its soothing aroma, it’s my go-to product. Funny enough, its creation was a happy accident—proof that some of our best work emerges unexpectedly. But that’s a story for another day.
For now, I want you to know that you’re worthy of every ounce of love and attention you give to yourself. This is more than self-care—it’s self-celebration, and you deserve every second of it.
How to Create a Self-Care Routine That Actually Sticks
Building a self-care routine is one of the best ways to prioritize your well-being, but keeping it consistent can be a challenge! Here’s how to create a self-care routine that actually sticks, bringing you lasting benefits and a sense of balance.
Start by Finding Your Why
Every lasting change begins with purpose, so take a moment to identify why self-care matters to you. Maybe it’s to feel more energized, to reduce stress, or to carve out time that’s just yours. Understanding this can keep you grounded and help your self-care routine feel meaningful, not just another item on the to-do list.
Begin Small and Focus on What’s Achievable
It’s tempting to dive in headfirst, but starting small gives you the foundation to build a lasting habit. Consider dedicating just five minutes a day to something simple, like a quick skincare ritual or breathing exercise. These small steps lay the groundwork for something sustainable, making it easier to commit without feeling overwhelmed.
Choose Activities That Genuinely Nourish You
Self-care routines stick best when they’re filled with things that actually bring you joy. Reflect on activities that make you feel restored, whether it’s a warm bath, journaling, stretching, or applying a calming body butter before bed. By picking things that excite you, your routine becomes less of a duty and more of an enjoyable ritual.
Anchor Your Routine to an Existing Habit
One powerful way to help your self-care routine feel natural is by linking it to a habit you already have. Try adding self-care to something consistent, like your morning coffee or nightly skincare. For example, if you brush your teeth every night, you can follow it up by massaging in a nourishing body butter, slowly creating a sequence that feels as natural as brushing your teeth.
Make It Non-Negotiable
Treat your self-care time like an important appointment you wouldn’t cancel. Block out that time on your calendar, even if it’s just ten minutes each day. By setting this boundary, you’re reminding yourself and others that your well-being is a priority—and that’s worth honoring.
Practice Self-Compassion and Flexibility
Self-care isn’t about doing everything perfectly. It’s about returning to what you need, even if you miss a day or two. If life gets busy, don’t stress over skipped routines; instead, ease back in with gentleness. This flexibility keeps your routine sustainable and encourages you to keep going without guilt.
Reflect and Revise as Needed
Every few weeks, check in with yourself to see how your self-care routine is working. Are you enjoying the rituals? Are they bringing the benefits you hoped for? Use these reflections to refine and adjust your routine to better suit your needs as they evolve.
Creating a self-care routine that actually sticks is all about small steps, flexibility, and honoring your needs. With these strategies, you’ll develop a routine that supports you every day—one you’ll look forward to, not just feel obligated to do.
Why Preservatives Matter in Skincare
When it comes to skincare, there’s often a lot of debate around preservatives. Many of us prefer natural, preservative-free products to avoid synthetic ingredients. However, preservatives play an essential role in ensuring the safety and longevity of certain skincare formulations—especially those containing water. At Evasha Skin, I take pride in using only skin safe preservatives when needed. Let’s explore why preservatives are important, what broad-spectrum protection means, and how I prioritize skin safety in my products.
What Are Preservatives and Why Do We Need Them?
Preservatives are ingredients that help prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, mold, and yeast in skincare products, especially those that contain water. Water-based products like lotions and creams are particularly susceptible to contamination, making preservatives necessary to protect the product—and your skin.
In fact, without preservatives, water-based products could spoil quickly, leading to irritation, infections, or worse. While my body butter and oil-based products are naturally preservative-free due to their lack of water, my body cream contains a preservative to ensure safety and effectiveness.
My Preservative of Choice
For my body cream, I’ve chosen Optiphen Plus, a broad-spectrum preservative that offers excellent protection against bacteria, yeast, and mold. This is the first preservative I’ve worked with and its performed well over the years. Let’s explore what broad-spectrum means and take a closer look at the ingredients that make up Optiphen Plus to understand why it's such an effective and safe preservative.
What Does Broad-Spectrum Protection Mean?
Broad-spectrum protection refers to a preservative's ability to defend against a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, yeast, and mold. In a product containing water, like my body cream, it's important to protect against all of these potential threats because water can become a breeding ground for harmful contaminants. A broad-spectrum preservative like Optiphen Plus ensures that your product stays fresh, safe, and free of unwanted bacteria or mold for longer periods.
What Is Optiphen Plus Made Of?
Optiphen Plus is made of three key ingredients that work together to provide strong, broad-spectrum protection while remaining gentle on the skin. These ingredients are:
Phenoxyethanol
Caprylyl Glycol
Sorbic Acid
Each of these ingredients plays a specific role in preserving your skincare product and ensuring that it remains safe and effective.
Breaking Down Optiphen Plus: Ingredients and Their Role
1. Phenoxyethanol
What It Is: Phenoxyethanol is a synthetic compound that is widely used in cosmetics and personal care products. It’s a glycol ether, which acts as an effective antibacterial agent.
Where It Comes From: Although it is synthetically produced, phenoxyethanol can also be found naturally in green tea.
Why It Works: As an antimicrobial, phenoxyethanol helps to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in your body cream. Its broad-spectrum properties make it effective against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. It is also safe for use at low concentrations (usually between 0.5-1%).
2. Caprylyl Glycol
What It Is: Caprylyl glycol is a naturally derived emollient and humectant that also acts as a mild antimicrobialagent.
Where It Comes From: This ingredient is typically derived from coconut or palm oil.
Why It Works: Caprylyl glycol works in conjunction with phenoxyethanol to boost the preservative system's effectiveness. It inhibits the growth of yeast and mold, while also keeping the skin moisturized and smooth due to its humectant properties. It is known for being non-irritating and beneficial for skin hydration.
3. Sorbic Acid
What It Is: Sorbic acid is an organic compound used primarily as a mold inhibitor in both food and cosmetics.
Where It Comes From: Sorbic acid occurs naturally in the rowan berry but is synthetically produced for commercial use.
Why It Works: This ingredient helps prevent the growth of fungi, such as mold and yeast, which can flourish in water-based products. It is a key component of broad-spectrum preservation, ensuring that products like my body cream remain stable and free from contamination.
Why Optiphen Plus Is a Safer Choice
Optiphen Plus stands out because it is paraben-free and formaldehyde-free, two types of preservatives that are often avoided due to their potential health concerns. Instead, the combination of phenoxyethanol, caprylyl glycol, and sorbic acid provides a safer and gentler approach to preserving skincare products.
Why I Use Optiphen Plus in My Body Cream
Water Content: My body cream includes distilled water, which is a key hydrating ingredient. However, any product with water provides the perfect environment for bacterial growth without proper preservation. That’s why using a preservative like Optiphen Plus is non-negotiable for safety and quality.
Longer Shelf Life: With a preservative, my body cream stays safe and effective for months after opening, allowing you to enjoy the nourishing benefits without worry.
Natural and Ecocert-Approved Preservatives in Skincare
At Evasha Skin, I believe in transparency and using only high-quality, safe ingredients. While some products don’t require preservatives, those that do must be protected without compromising on natural integrity. Here are a few other natural preservatives and Ecocert-approved options I love:
1. Leucidal Liquid: Derived from fermented radish root, this natural preservative is often used in water-based formulations for its antibacterial properties.
2. Geogard ECT: A popular Ecocert-approved preservative, Geogard ECT offers broad-spectrum protection and is commonly used in organic skincare. It combines dehydro acetic acid and benzyl alcohol.
3. Potassium Sorbate: A mild, natural preservative often used in conjunction with others for broad-spectrum protection. It’s gentle on the skin and approved for natural formulations.
4. Sodium Benzoate: This is another Ecocert-approved preservative, often used in conjunction with potassium sorbate to extend the shelf life of water-containing products.
Why Vitamin E Oil Is Not a Preservative
A common misconception in the skincare world is that Vitamin E oil acts as a preservative. While it’s a fantastic antioxidant that helps extend the shelf life of oil-based products by preventing them from going rancid, it does not protect against bacteria, mold, or yeast. This is why oil-based products may still remain preservative-free, but water-based products like my body cream require a more robust solution.
Choosing Safety Without Compromise
At Evasha Skin, I’m committed to creating natural, effective skincare products that prioritize both your skin’s health and the safety of the formulas. While most of my products are preservative-free, my body cream uses a preservative to ensure long-lasting safety and broad-spectrum protection. Rest assured, the preservative choices I make are always with your skin's well-being in mind. As I continue to evolve my product line, I plan to transition to a preservative like Leucidal Liquid, which is derived from fermented radish root and is a natural, plant-based option. This will help me maintain the use of ALL-natural ingredients across my product range, further aligning with my mission of offering safe, nourishing, and eco-friendly skincare.
DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this blog post is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical or professional advice. While I strive to use safe, natural ingredients in my products, individual results may vary, and skin sensitivities can differ. Always perform a patch test before using new skincare products, and consult with a dermatologist or healthcare professional if you have any concerns or conditions. Please note that while I share my experiences and knowledge, this information is based on my personal research and product development. For specific questions regarding ingredient safety or skin conditions, professional advice should be sought.
Body Butters vs. Body Creams: Which Is Best for Your Skin?
When it comes to nourishing and hydrating our skin, body butters and body creams are two popular choices, each offering unique benefits. As a licensed esthetician and the creator of Evasha Skin, I understand the importance of finding the right product for your skin type. With my new line of body creams complementing my signature body butters, let’s explore the key differences and help you choose the best option for your skincare routine.
What Is Body Butter?
Body butter is a rich, creamy moisturizer with a high-fat content, perfect for locking in moisture and providing deep hydration.
Ingredients: My body butter features kokum butter, known for its nourishing and firming properties. It also includes tamanu butter, which offers healing benefits for irritated skin and a combination of oils ideal for those needing extra moisture, especially during dry seasons.
What Is Body Cream?
On the other hand, body cream has a lighter, more fluid texture, making it ideal for everyday use.
Ingredients: My body cream is crafted with distilled water for hydration, glycerin to attract moisture, and emulsifying wax to blend oil and water seamlessly. Infused with kokum butter and nourishing oils, it provides moisture without the heavy feel, making it suitable for normal to oily skin.
Key Differences
Understanding the key differences between body butters and creams can help you make an informed choice:
Body butter is thick and luxurious, perfect for dry skin and deep hydration. Creating a barrier to lock in moisture, making it great for nighttime use or during colder months. It is best for very dry skin or when your skin needs extra nourishment.
Body creams are lighter and easily absorbed, ideal for everyday and providing hydration without feeling heavy, suitable for warmer weather and daytime wear. They are great for normal to oily skin, providing a lighter option that still delivers hydration.
When to Use Each Product
I recommend using body butter at night or when your skin needs extra nourishment. Its rich texture is perfect for locking in moisture while you sleep.
For daytime hydration, body cream is your go-to product. Its lightweight formula allows for easy application and quick absorption, making it perfect for layering under other products.
Both body butters and body creams offer unique benefits tailored to your skin's needs. Whether you’re battling dryness or simply seeking a light, hydrating option, choosing the right product can make all the difference.
Explore my body butter and body cream offerings today to find the perfect match for your skin! Feel free to reach out with any questions or for personalized recommendations—I’m here to help!
Disclaimer
The information provided in this blog post is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical or professional advice. While I strive to use safe, natural ingredients in my products, individual results may vary, and skin sensitivities can differ. Always perform a patch test before using new skincare products, and consult with a dermatologist or healthcare professional if you have any concerns or conditions. Please note that while I share my experiences and knowledge, this information is based on my personal research and product development. For specific questions regarding ingredient safety or skin conditions, professional advice should be sought.
The Simple Things
Every day, I am reminded of what it means to be grateful by my daughter. It's not just that I am grateful to have her in my life, but also for the little things she does. I perform regular, everyday tasks like feeding her, brushing her teeth, combing her hair, bathing her, and putting clean clothes on her. After each task is completed, she comes to me and says, "Mommy, thank you for combing my hair," or "Thank you for brushing my teeth, Mommy." I acknowledge her gratitude and, in my head, I think, 'Well, it's my job.' But out loud, I am thankful that she finds joy in something that seems so basic to me.
Her expressions of gratitude make me reflect on our everyday lives as adults. I don't think we, as a people, are grateful enough for the 'simple' things in life. We often overlook the mundane blessings that make our lives easier and more comfortable.
I have always believed in expressing gratitude, even for the simplest things that seem so minor. Think about it: a squeeze of toothpaste to start your day, or having just enough money for a small coffee from your local coffee shop. These might seem like minor details, but they contribute to our well-being and comfort. By acknowledging and appreciating these small blessings, we cultivate a mindset of gratitude that can transform our perspective on life.
Gratitude doesn’t always have to be reserved for grand gestures or major milestones. It’s the simple, everyday acts of kindness, the routine comforts, and the basic necessities that also deserve our recognition and appreciation. By expressing gratitude for these small things, we not only improve our own outlook but also inspire those around us to do the same.
So, let's take a moment each day to be grateful for the small things: the toothpaste that freshens our breath, the coffee that gives us a boost, the roof over our heads, and the loved ones who bring us joy—every small blessing counts. In practicing gratitude, we find more joy and contentment in our lives, and that is truly something to be thankful for.
Get to Know Me: A Journey of Passion, Growth, and Skincare
Hey there, lovely souls! Today, I'm excited to share a little more about myself and the journey that led me to create Evasha Skin. Ever since I was old enough to take control of my skincare routine, I've been fascinated by the art of nurturing and caring for my skin. This early passion eventually led me to become a licensed esthetician, where I could turn my love for skincare into a profession.Growing up, I spent a lot of time helping my grandma in the vegetable garden. I was also the kid who collected rocks, would make mud pies, and rainwater potions, always eager to explore the world of planting, growing, and creating. It's no surprise that this love for nature and creation eventually blossomed into a deep affinity for tending to my own plants, herbs, and natural ingredients used in my skincare products.Evasha Skin was born out of the encouragement of my friends and family, who were already enjoying my homemade products long before they were available for sale. Their unwavering support and belief in me pushed me to take the leap, and I've never looked back. Creating Evasha Skin feels like a calling, something I'm truly meant to do, and I don't anticipate that ever changing.In addition to running Evasha Skin, I also work a full-time job and am a full-time student at GVSU, where I'm finishing up my bachelor's degree in Integrative Studies with a focus on Project Management and Global Communication. Balancing these responsibilities can be challenging, but it's a journey of growth and learning that I embrace wholeheartedly.One of my greatest joys is being a mother to a sweet 4-year-old who loves to "help mommy make more creams." Her enthusiasm is infectious and reminds me daily of the importance of pursuing my passions.In my free time, I enjoy diving into the various worlds of fantasy fiction. My favorite author is Sarah J. Maas, and while I love every series she has written, "Throne of Glass" holds a special place in my heart. I'm also a big fan of Sai Mecca's series "Foolish," where fantasy meets urban fiction and is referred to as Hoodoo fiction. This series never fails to captivate me with its vivid storytelling and rich characters.I hope this glimpse into my life has helped you get to know me a little better. Thank you for being a part of the Evasha Skin community, and I look forward to continuing this journey of passion, growth, and skincare with you all.With love and gratitude,ChantylFounder, Evasha SkinThe Power of Community: Finding Strength in Connection
In times of joy and in times of sorrow, one thing remains constant: the importance of community. Recently, I experienced the loss of my uncle, a moment that could have been filled with sadness and despair. However, thanks to the love and support of my family, his funeral was a celebration of his life, filled with laughter and fond memories. It reminded me of the incredible strength and comfort that comes from being surrounded by loved ones.
In addition to dealing with this loss, I've also been facing a physical challenge—an abscess on a tooth that requires a root canal retreatment. Despite the pain and discomfort, I've been overwhelmed by the kindness of my friends, my sisters and partner, who have gone out of their way to ensure I know they're there for me, no matter what I need.
Amidst these personal challenges, I found myself contemplating whether to attend a networking event for women entrepreneurs. Socializing can sometimes feel like a daunting task, especially when dealing with personal struggles. However, I decided to step out of my comfort zone and attend, hoping to connect with like-minded women who could potentially become friends, collaborators, or supporters. I'm so glad I did. The event was a wonderful experience, and I had the opportunity to meet some truly inspiring women. Their stories and enthusiasm reignited my passion for my work and reminded me of the importance of building a supportive community around me.
Now, as I sit down to relax and unwind, I'm filled with gratitude for the community that surrounds me. Whether it's my family, my friends, or new acquaintances, their support and love have been a source of strength and comfort during challenging times. As I dive into the third book in the ACOTAR series, I'm reminded that no matter what life throws our way, having a strong community to lean on makes all the difference.
So, to all the wonderful individuals who have been a part of my journey, thank you. Thank you for your love, your support, and your unwavering presence. Together, we can weather any storm and celebrate every joy, knowing that we are stronger together.
Self-Care Sundays: A Glimpse into My Relaxing Rituals
As the weekend draws to a close, I find solace in the quiet moments of Sunday—a day dedicated to rejuvenation and self-care after a week filled with the various hats I wear, from work and school to nurturing my business and the joys of motherhood.My self-care ritual begins with the subtle dance of sweet-smelling incense, a personal touch that sets the tone for the day. Lately, I've been enchanted by the invigorating scent of lemongrass and ginger – the Altar incense from CuratedSOUF. Trust me, it's a game-changer and you should get some too – refreshing and revitalizing. I light one as soon as I wake up, allowing the aroma to gently fill the air, creating a calming atmosphere that lingers throughout the morning.The journey continues with a luxurious hot shower, a moment to cleanse away the week's stresses. My go-to is the Cardamom, Rose & Vanilla body butter, a divine indulgence that leaves my skin feeling pampered and nourished.In my skincare routine, I've crafted a ritual that is both personal and effective. An herbal face wash, made by yours truly, sets the stage, followed by my favorite serums—hyaluronic acid and vitamin C. The finale is a dose of moisture with a ceramide moisturizer by CosRx, sealed with a light facial oil that I create myself.While Sundays often come with a touch of academia for my ongoing classes, I make a conscious effort to tackle any homework early in the day. This leaves the rest of my Sunday open for moments of pure relaxation, whether it's getting lost in the pages of a good book or immersing myself in the world of a captivating movie.I understand that Sundays aren't always synonymous with relaxation for everyone, but I encourage you to find at least one thing that brings you peace. Whether it's a warm cup of tea, a brisk walk, or simply taking a few moments for yourself, prioritize what makes your heart content.Warmth, Depth, and Beauty: Navigating the Duality of Organic Skincare and Natural Inspiration
In the tranquil embrace of nature's lush greenery, I discover more than inspiration for skincare; I uncover a lifestyle deeply rooted in authenticity and organic beauty. This journey, fueled by a passion for natural and organic skincare, transcends mere trends, drawing from the timeless allure and resilience of nature's vibrant palette.
My commitment to harnessing nature's purest gifts echoes the depth and richness found in thriving ecosystems. Just as a forest thrives in harmony with its surroundings, my approach to skincare delves beyond surface-level aesthetics, embracing the essence of authenticity, warmth, and healing.
While the beauty industry often gravitates towards bright, airy portrayals of clean beauty, I find my soul resonating with a different aesthetic—a 'dark & moody' elegance that captures the mystery and depth inherent in both nature and Evasha Skin. This distinctive photography style, characterized by soft, embracing glows and nuanced shadows, feels welcoming, exuding an authenticity and warmth that resonates with my core values and creative vision. As you navigate Evasha Skin's offerings, you're not merely exploring products; you're embarking on a journey that celebrates individuality, connection, and the transformative power of nature's purest gifts.
Embracing the philosophy of clean beauty and organic skincare, I vowed to authentically embody my essence in every facet of Evasha Skin. Join me in this exploration, where we embrace the radiant beauty found at the intersection of nature's mysteries and Evasha Skin's heartfelt creations. Together, let's celebrate authenticity, depth, and the timeless allure that defines both the natural world and the essence of Evasha Skin.
A special shoutout to my beloved friend, Kendra Lynece for the amazing photoshoot. Incredibly talented and loved beyond measure. You can check out more of her work over at Kendra Lynece Photography