Journey to U4ia (euphoria) is BrownStyle Magazine’s new column written by Vanessa Simmons. In this candid and inspirational series, the mom and multi-hyphenate entertainer shares her journey to wellness and mindful living.
Greetings BrownStyle Family! I hope this month has been treating you well. Spring is officially underway, and with it comes new blooms and transformations.
I’m especially excited about this new season, figuratively and physically. The last season of my life has been one where I was forced to look inward and learn how to grow through trials and lessons. In those still and quiet times, I learned something invaluable about gratitude and appreciation. Most importantly, I learned the importance of treasuring what I already have and taking a pause before pushing for more.
Lately, I’ve also been learning how to romanticize my life with what I already have. My goal is to make what seems ordinary and mundane into something special, something extraordinary.
Ahead, read how I’ve elevated my wellness over the last few weeks.
Being More Intentional With My Morning Ritual
How you spend the first hour of your day determines the outcome of your day. I find that on days when I’m intentional in this particular practice, I experience better days than when I have a rushed morning.
First things first, I try not to rush to my phone. I know it’s easier said than done— and I can assure you that I don’t always hit this mark either— but it does make a difference for your overall mindset and the way you approach the world.
The second thing that has elevated my morning routine in the simplest way is stretching. It only takes about 5 minutes, but the benefits are long-lasting. Some of the benefits include improved circulation, posture, and a boost in mood. Plus, it just feels good!
(There are even some stretches that can help you lose some inches off your waist and slim your face if practiced daily.)
Another part of my morning ritual is my morning coffee. I’ve recently switched from regular coffee to Ryze Mushroom Coffee, and it gives me just as much energy as a cup of joe. I found that it has not only helped me manage my stress better throughout the day but also improved my digestion and gut health. (The flavor does take some getting used to. For a touch of sweetness, I usually add in creamer!)
To add a bit of romanticizing to my morning cup of joe, I add supplements like Bulletproof’s Collagen to help me glow from the inside-out and Brain Octane MCT Oil, which helps with fat burning, sustained energy, and nourishing the brain. (Both of these additions also work well in smoothies; in case you’re not a coffee drinker.)
Knowing that I’m starting my day with something that helps my physical and mental health helps make me feel more pulled together and ready to conquer my day.
Facial Ice Baths
If you’ve been on social media recently, you’ve likely seen Ashton Hall’s intense morning routines. I know people have their opinions on his approach, but I can appreciate the commitment to routine.
Another thing I consistently do as a part of my own morning routine is a facial ice bath for an extra jolt! It wakes you up and gets the blood circulation going in your face— resulting in glowing healthy skin.
I add filtered water and ice to a bowl and dunk my face in for 10-15 seconds, and repeat 2-3 times. I find that it helps a lot with inflammation and decreases puffiness. When practiced regularly, it also helps to balance cortisol levels. It’s like a spa treatment, but something that you can commit to at home with items you already have.
Leveling Up My Bath Time Routine
Bathtime is my favorite time of the day! It’s usually how I begin or end my day.
Soaking in a bath is one of my absolute favorite ways to relax. (I’m pretty sure I got that from my dad. If you know, you know that’s how he would end every episode of Run’s House with his words of wisdom.)
Now as an adult seeking solace from stressful days, I run to a bath as soon as I’m home to indulge in that same feeling of relaxation. I also use this time to meditate and listen to a new podcast or audiobook.
I’ve always heard about shower meditations, but I never actually put them into use. Let me say, it’s made a world of difference!
The process is so simple— and trust me, you don’t need to really overthink it. The practice really calls for you to be present in the moment to cultivate mindfulness and relaxation. You start by setting an intention before stepping into the shower.
Once you’re in, engage your senses by focusing on the water, grounding yourself in the moment by becoming aware of your body and what feelings or sensations come up. Breathe deeply and imagine the water washing away all of your worries or stress. (The breath will really be the key component of the practice, as this will help deregulate your nervous system.)
To add some extra razzle-dazzle, I suggest investing in some eucalyptus to place in your shower for the aromatherapy benefits. The eucalyptus also helps with respiratory relief and decongestion, as well as, help with mental clarity and alertness.
| ✨ Add A Detoxification Element To Your Bathtime Routine ✨ |
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| ✨ Epsom Salt Detox Bath: Mix 2 cups of Epsom salt, 1 cup of baking soda, and 1-2 drops of your favorite essential oil (optional) into a warm bath and soak for 20 minutes. ✨ Green Tea Bath: Brew a cup of green tea using 2 green tea bags. Add it to your bath along with 1 cup of Epsom salt to a warm bath. Soak for 20 minutes and experience benefits such as reduced anxiety, relieved muscle tension, and detoxified skin. (This one happens to be my favorite because it increases my metabolism as well as aids in my daily fitness efforts.) |
Practicing Gratitude
I could go on and on with my tips on how to turn everyday normal activities into a luxe experience, but these are just a few ways I find the extra joy throughout my day, which helps me cultivate gratitude.
Gratitude is directly connected to our mental health, and it helps us to focus on positive aspects of life by reducing stress and anxiety and the things that come up when life just isn’t going our way.
It’s all about perspective and how we choose to look at what life is presenting us in the moment. Will we let the circumstances get us down, or will we take hold of what is given and make the best of it?
All these lessons have taught me to keep looking for joy and finding simple ways to maintain wholeness. Sending you all love and lots of light until next time!
XO,
Vanessa
Editor’s Note: This story has been edited and condensed for clarity.
By BrownStyle Magazine in Special Editions
72 pages, published 1/17/2025
