You Can't Weigh Beauty: Redefining Body Image

Happiness Is Not a Body Shape 

I received a great response to my "How to be Confident" blog post last week.  So, this week I decided to talk about something that I myself have always struggled with and that is body image issues.

If you've been following my blog or follow me on social media, you may know that I compete in beauty pageants.  You may be thinking to yourself, "There is no way SHE has body image issues!"  But, what you may not know is that this is something I struggled with for many years.  I am not going to go into any great detail about what I went through because this blog isn't about me... This blog is about learning to stop hating our bodies!  The hate-fest on our bodies needs to stop because all we are really doing when we project that negativity onto ourselves is digging ourselves deep into a dark and gloomy rabbit hole.  My hope is that by the end of this blog, you will no longer feel enslaved by someone else's opinion of how you "should" look.

Whether we realize it or not, we all have some sort of expectation of how our body "should" look.  The media and society tell us ALL the time that in order to be happy, liked, and loved; we need to look certain way.  My challenge to you this month is: instead of focusing on changing your body, focus on celebrating it!

5 Practices to Redefine Your Body Image 

Gratitude. 
Make a list of the things your body enables you do.  I can walk, run, jump, bike, swim, etc.  There are a lot of people who aren't able to do many of the simple things we regularly take for granted.  Reflect on this list when you are frustrated with your body.  Maybe you didn't reach your goal weight this month? or maybe you gained a few pounds.  When you have moments like these, remember your body is pretty dang awesome and be thankful for the amazing things you are able to do! 

Ditch Social Media.
Oh, social media!  One of my favorite quotes is, "Don't compare your behind the scenes with other people's highlight reel."  Do NOT beat yourself up and compare yourself with others... especially based on their social media posts.  Many people only post the positive and not the negative in life. There are a few times each year when I take a break from all social media.  It influences us so much more than we know and I think it's important to step away from it every now and then.

Mirror Talk. 
A lot of us look in the mirror and often think thoughts such as:
I'm fat 
I hate my stomach 
I wish my thighs were smaller 
If I could lose this much weight, I would be happy 
I hate my arms 
These pants make me look fat 
My skin is ugly  
This needs to stop! For the month of March, I encourage you to start looking in the mirror and telling yourself, "I am beautiful inside and out."  Sweet talk yourself up... talk to yourself the way you want to be talked to by others! Tell yourself how beautiful you are!

Ditch the enablers 
We are bombarded daily with pictures of photoshopped bodies that are simply unrealistic.  The media plays a huge role in bringing down our self-esteem but they are not the only ones responsible! Our family and friends play a role as well.  Make sure you are surrounding yourself with people who are supporting, uplifting, and motivating you!

True Beauty 
Remember that true beauty is not skin deep.  Sparkling From The Inside Out was titled this way because I truly believe that we must work on the inside in order to shine on the outside.  Beauty has nothing to do with your body, it has everything to do with your mind!

Keep in mind that the key to happiness isn't having a perfect body, the secret is learning to love your body and creating a positive self image.  A healthy body serves little purpose without a healthy mind to accompany it.

XoXo 
Ashley 

5 Beauty Products I Love

5 Beauty Products I Love 

These are some of my all time favorite beauty products that I use daily!  For me, these products were game changers that became my essentials.  These are some of the very best beauty products on the market, in my opinion! I love them, I use them, and I recommend them!  

Chi Silk Infusion

This stuff is the real deal.  I have naturally curly hair, so whenever I straighten my hair, I try to avoid as much damage as possible. I ALWAYS use Chi Silk Infusion when straightening my hair.  I have tried many other serums when styling my hair and this is by far my favorite.  This product protects your hair from heat damage AND makes your hair feel silky and look shiny.  I can notice a big difference whenever I straighten my hair without using it. I also like this serum because it’s thin… it doesn’t leave your hair with that greasy feeling, which a lot of other serums do. It's a little expensive, however one bottle lasts forever.  I usually only use a small amount (dime size) before blow drying and then another small amount before flat ironing or curling.  

(Link Here...Sold at most drug stores) 

Urban Decay Eye Shadow Primer 

I use to think that eye shadow primer wasn’t necessary until I tried Urban Decay Eye Shadow Primer Potion.  I love this primer because it makes your eye shadow last all day and night.  This product does a fantastic job of keeping your makeup in place!  Your eye shadow will not crease, budge, or fade! This primer has the best balance when it comes to texture.  It’s creamy, and easy to apply without being too creamy.  It’s easy to blend and a little bit goes a long way.  One tube lasts about a year with daily use! 

(Link Here...Sold at Sephora and Ulta) 

There are four different “potions” I prefer the Eden because it’s a matte primer.  The others have shimmer in them.   

Clean & Clear Oil Absorbing Sheet 

I don’t like to re-apply makeup throughout the day so these babies are my saving grace.  Each pack comes with 50 sheets that you can blot your face with, removing the oil but not removing your makeup!  I have pretty oily skin, so I keep a pack of these in my purse and use them throughout the day.  I really dislike re-applying make up on an already dirty face, I think it’s harmful to the skin.  When I can do something to avoid a breakout, I take advantage of it! Love these things… I have been using them for years.  

(Link Here...Sold at most drug stores)

Voluminous Carbon Black Mascara 

 I looovveeee this mascara! It’s the best mascara on the market.  I have used several other name brand mascaras from expensive make up stores and I ALWAYS come back to this mascara.  The brush is perfect, very easy to apply.  I like the carbon black because it’s very black, giving your eye lashes a dramatic look.  It doesn’t flake, it comes off easily, it's not too thin or thick. I feel like it adds volume, length, doesn’t clump, and applies evenly! It’s just a really good mascara!  Whenever I go on modeling jobs, I check out the makeup artists collection of makeup and this specific mascara is used by almost all make up artists.   

(Link Here...Sold at most drug stores)

Instant Bronzer Shimmer Powder 

I received this as a gift years ago and have continued to purchase it ever since! I love this stuff… I don’t use it daily but I do use it a lot.  I love to dust myself in it for a little extra glow.  I feel like it gives my skin a pretty, sun kissed look! I usually sweep it on my chest, shoulders, arms and legs depending on what I’m wearing.  

(Link Here...Sold at Victoria’s Secret) 

I hope your week is off to a fabulous start and that you enjoyed this blog! 

I am very excited to share more of my beauty tips and tricks with you all! 

Xoxo 

Ashley 

How to Store Juice

 Happy Monday and Happy June! It officially feels like summer.. Woo Hoo! 

One of the most frequently asked questions I receive is... "How long can I store my juice?"  Making fresh juice can be extremely time consuming and tedious (especially in the beginning... it gets better the more you do it, I promise) ...  If you are anything like me (busy busy busy) going thru the juicing process everyday is pretty much out of the question.  I simply just don't have the time for it, which is why making juice in advance is a must! 

If you do some research online you will almost always read that the beneficial nutrients in juice are dissipated after just a few hours and that juice is best when consumed within the first 24 hours.  While this is true... juice does in fact have the most nutrient value within the first day, you can still drink juice after the first 24 hours and get some of the benefits... you just have to store it the proper way!

Tips for Longer Lasting Juice 

1. NEVER leave juice unopened (i.e in a cup with no lid)  The more air that hits the juice, the more the nutrient value drops. You should never allow your juice to become warm. 
2. Never leave at room temperature.  Juice stays fresh longer when cold.  I just recently bought an Igloo cooler back pack that I take with me EVERYWHERE.  I have re-freezable ice cubes that I throw in my backpack every morning along with jars of juice and I take that baby with me in the car, to work, to the gym... literally everywhere.  It keeps my juice ice cold and it helps me stay on track with eating healthy all day.
   
   
3. Pour juice you don't plan on drinking right away in an airtight sealed container.  I like to use Mason Jars for several different reasons.  They are the best airtight sealed jars I've used, they are portable, easy to clean, and I have yet to break one... which is pretty amazing for me.  I have dropped one on concrete and it didn't break.. pretty impressive if you ask me! 
   
4.  Add extra lemon juice to preserve juice.  
   
5. Place your produce in the fridge.  Using fruit that is already cold will significantly help keep your juice fresh for a longer time period.  
6. Freeze your juice for long term storage.  If you know that you aren't going to be drinking the juice you made for several days, you can freeze it and it will stay good until you are ready to defrost it.  You can also do this so your juice will stay cold throughout the day, usually by lunch time your juice will be ready to drink.

***WARNING***

When your juice starts to change in color, smell, and taste... It's starting to go bad! I have personally stored juice up to 5 days and have not had any problems.  With that being said, a lot of juicing is trial and error.  Watermelon for example goes bad within a day and I have never been able to drink it after the first 12 hours.  So just be cautious when storing juice! 

With this week being the 1st week of June I just wanted to encourage you all to make the most out of your summer!  Make it your healthiest summer yet... You deserve to have the body you've always dreamed of! I know earlier I talked about being busy which most of us are but your first appointment of the day should always be with yourself.  It takes 4 weeks for you to start seeing changes in your body, it takes 8 weeks for friends and family to start seeing changes, and it takes 12 weeks for the rest of the world.  Once you start seeing results it  becomes an addiction! 

I received these pictures last week from two people who have started juicing since I started my blog and was completely inspired!  I am so glad that I can be a small part of other people's journey!

And here's a little transformation picture of my own! 

Have a blessed week everyone! Much love to you all! If you post a picture of your juice, tag me! I love seeing all the photos!

#Sparkingfromtheinsideout

XoXo,

Ashley

For Daily Tips and Recipes follow me on: 

Instagram: ashleynicolemora1 

Twitter: MissAshleyMoora 

Fit In Feb Challenge

 

With spring break less than a month away and summer just around the corner, earlier this month I decided to sit down and write out a plan for myself that incorporated juicing and clean eating.  It’s a lot easier for me to stick to a plan when I have it written out and I’m not guessing what to eat next.  I printed this plan out and I have a copy of it hanging everywhere… my fridge, my office, and my car.  Having that constant reminder of my goals and my plan is what keeps me on track. 

This plan is something I wrote and designed for myself.  I didn’t have it approved by a dietitian or anything… I just combined personal experience with what I have learned from my personal trainers over the past 5 or so years. 

It’s challenging but it works :) I have no issues when it comes to replacing meals with juice.  I don’t feel deprived or feel like I am low on energy… I actually feel the complete opposite! I feel full, satisfied, and energized!

Fit In Feb CHALLENGE

·      No Dairy

·      No (processed) Sugar

·      No Wheat or White Flour Products

·      Juice 80% of everyday

·      Only have one cheat meal a week

·      Always cleanse on Monday

·      Stick to Meal Plan

·      Workout at least 5 hours a week

·      No Cokes (including Diet)

·      No artificially flavored drinks

·      No Processed Foods

·      No creamer with coffee

·      1 piece of gum a day

·      No Energy Drinks

MONDAYS

6:30                Drink a glass of Lemon Water.

7:45                Drink First Juice.

9:00                Drink a cup of Green Tea.

10:00             Drink a 16oz Juice.

11:00              Drink a glass of water with Lemon or other fruit.

12:00              Drink a 16oz Juice.

1:00                Drink a cup of Green Tea.

2:00                Drink a glass of 16oz Juice.

3:00                Drink a glass of water.

4:00                Drink a glass of 16oz Juice.

5:00                Drink a glass of water.

6:00                Drink a glass of 16oz Juice.

7:00                Drink a glass of water

8:00                Drink a glass of 8oz Juice (If needed) 

TUESDAYS

7:45                Drink a glass of Lemon Water.           

9:00                Breakfast Burrito with Ezekiel tort. 2 Eggs.  Green Chili.  (Feta Cheese Optional) Coffee with Almond Milk and natural sweetener              

10:00              Drink glass of water          

11:00              Water or Tea if needed       

12:00              Drink 16oz Juice    

1:00                Cup of Green Tea     

2:00                Drink 8oz Juice         

3:00                Drink glass of lemon water

4:00                Drink 8oz juice Juice with Nuts  

5:00                Cup of Green Tea       

6:00                Drink 16oz  

7:00                Water                                      

8:00                8oz Juice if needed

 

WEDNESDAYS

6:30                Drink a glass of Lemon Water.          

7:45                Drink First Juice    

9:00                Water with Lemon (or other fruit)              

10:00              Drink 16oz Juice    

11:00              Cup of Green Tea     

12:00              Salad with Chicken, Tomatoes, avocado, and feta cheese.    

1:00                Glass of Water          

2:00                8oz Juice        

3:00                Cup of Green tea      

4:00                8oz Juice with all Natural Bar  (brand-ALT Laura Bar.  I like these because they have minimal, all natural ingredients. They are Vegan, gluten free, dairy free, and non-GMO.)       

5:00                Glass of Water            

6:00                16oz Juice    

7:00                Water              

8:00                8oz Juice if needed

THURSDAYS

6:30                Drink a glass of Lemon Water.          

7:45                Drink First Juice   

9:00                Cup of Green Tea       

10:00              8oz Juice with nuts            

11:00              Glass of Water          

12:00              Sandwich on Ezekiel Break with either lunchmeat or tuna.  No cheese.   Mustard only.  Tomato or avocado ok. 

1:00                Water or Green Tea

2:00                8oz Juice      

3:00                Water            

4:00                8oz Juice with all natural bar                              

5:00                Cup of Tea                                                      

6:00                16oz Juice    

7:00                Water              

8:00                8oz Juice if needed.  

FRIDAYS

6:30                Drink a glass of Lemon Water.          

7:45                Drink First Juice    

9:00                Coffee with Almond Milk and natural sweetener                          

10:00              8oz Juice with All Natural Bar    

11:00              Water            

12:00              16oz Juice    

1:00                Cup of Green Tea     

2:00                8oz Juice with all natural popcorn          

3:00                Water            

4:00                16oz juice    

5:00                Water              

6:00                Baked Chicken with Almond Meal and Salad   

7:00                Water              

8:00                8oz Juice if needed

SATURDAYS

8:00                Drink First Juice                   

9:00                Water              

10:00              16oz Juice with Nuts         

11:00              Water            

12:00              16oz Juice with Bar           

1:00                Cup of Green tea      

2:00                16oz Juice      

3:00                Water            

4:00                8oz Juice      

5:00                Cheat Meal                              

SUNDAYS

6:30                Drink a glass of Lemon Water.          

7:45                Drink First Juice    

9:00                Cup of Green Tea       

10:00              16oz Juice    

11:00              Water            

12:00              16oz Juice with Nuts         

1:00                Water            

2:00                16oz Juice      

3:00                Cup of Green tea      

4:00                Healthy Family Dinner i.e. Chicken and Salad 

5:00                Water              

6:00                8oz Juice if needed

7:00                Water              

8:00                8oz Juice if needed

Here are a few examples of the clean recipes I have posted... for more food items to incorporate into this diet, check out my non-juicing blog.

Breakfast Burrito

 Bake or microwave spaghetti squash.  Make sure you cut or poke holes in it before heating it up!

 After scraping out the seeds, scrape out the squash and throw it on a hot pan with olive oil or non-stick spray.  Cook until crispy like hash browns. (So yummy)

 Heat up your tortilla and add your ingredients!

Wrap it up and it's ready to go! 

 I dipped mine in red chili :)

If you want to get real fancy you can add feta cheese and turkey bacon!

 These are my favorite nuts to snack on!

These bars are the BEST bars out there in my opinion! It's all about minimal ingredients and all natural foods.  These babies have such few ingredients, it's AMAZING! Most protein bars are loaded with chemicals... just compare labels next time you are at the store.  If there are more than 10 ingredients.. it's probably not great for you.  ALT is the best brand!

*** JUST A FRIENDLY REMINDER***

If you fall off your diet, don't give up! 90% is still an A! Don't turn a moment of weakness into a cheat day or a cheat week... just enjoy that piece of chocolate and get right back on track with your day :)

If you have any questions please leave me a comment or shoot me a message on FB.

XOXO, 

Ashley 

For Daily Tips and Recipes follow me on: 

Instagram: ashleynicolemora1 

Twitter: MissAshleyMoora