HERThoughts HERLife HERChoice

[its-esoteric]

Black womxn + Pride month

It's almost the end of pride month, a time where we got to cerebrate the LGBTQ+ community, a time that most of us usually stay anticipating all year. We plan our outfits, make up, decorations, people to go out with , etc. Unfortunately, this year was a little different. Everything that we didn’t believe would happen in our life time has officially happened. There’s been a pandemic thats taken over, there was a race on war...*sigh*... However there is hope!

In the midst of all this craziness, good things did result from it... For example, black people demanding respect, us demanding to be seen. We absolutely LOVE it. However this isn’t it, we need to do more, we need to keep fighting for our lives, we cannot forget & we absolutely cannot settle.

Earlier this month we also got some lovely news when Casta Semenya & her beautiful wife, Violet Raseboya announced that they’re adding to their family. They’re pregnant!!😁

This is such good news even during all this chaos. A baby is always a blessing especially when planned. As we all know Casta Semenya has received a lot of hate and disrespect throughout her career & its been extremely unfortunate. People not believing in her and people constantly doubting her makes her so amazing for continuing her to beat all the odds.

Just to refresh everyone’s minds. Casta Semenya is a black South African womxn. She is a middle distance runner and an Olympic gold medalist. Throughout her career she has faced a lot of black lash with people doubting her gender and wanting to do an immense amount of tests trying to see how much testosterone she has and trying to doubt her potential. They’ve been trying to find every and any reason to not believe that a black womxn can be so powerful, that a black womxn is magic. Why is that so hard to believe? Why is it that we are constantly being doubted by everyone?

Anyway my aim here is to remind everyone that there is a little bit of joy in these very dark times. Its to remind everyone that even though everything in the world or your world could be going wrong, its very important to find some light where you can.

It’s important to look for happiness. Its important for your mental health, its Important for your body and spirit that you’re able to smile, even if you don’t want to. That you allow yourself to feel even the slightest bit of good whenever you can. Its important because you need to keep going, however that looks like for you. You need to be able to survive, not for the people around you, but for you❤️🌈

Esoteric babe Amanda xoxo

[its-esoteric]

A mental check in🖤

"Sistas how y'all feel?

Brotha's y'all alright? " - a mental check in

A check in from a friend, brother, sister, colleague, mom, dad, uncle, cousin, aunt or auntie down from the local supermarket because WOW ... Between the pandemic, loss of jobs and now with the recent killing of George Floyd following so many other killings as a result of police brutality across the world... We're still waiting to exhale huh?

Still seen as too loud. Too proud. Too much opinion for the amount of melanin draped, too... Something. Never just right as you are without having to explain it. Never just listened to because your opinion mattered but most probably because you had to raise your voice higher than anyone else's in the room.

Too something... So that they have something to correct, to rectify, to say "They are powerful because of me, my assistance" but that's a lie.

So repeat after me:

I am powerful because I am ME.

In my skin, with my tone of voice, my slang, my culture, with my anger, my extensive fatigue, 'unprofessional hair' and alla that nit-picking... POWERFUL. I AM JUST AS POWERFUL IN MY SILENCE AS I AM WHILST ROARING.

I AM HEARD BECAUSE I AM... ENOUGH.

Keeping in mind that many of our marginalized communities are also grappling with economic uncertainty, police brutality and the spread of COVID-19 with increased mental health issues. Mental health experts understand that exposure to these pervasive racial traumas and stressors are detrimental to one’s mental health. We also know that many black people who suffer from mental health issues also experience less access to care and services.

In the African community, people often misunderstand what a mental health condition is and therefore the subject is uncommon. This lack of understanding leads many to believe that a mental health condition is a personal weakness or a form of punishment. It helps that we are starting to acknowledge that, because that can finally lead us to knowing that we have a lot of unlearning to do.

So remember to take care of yourself - the cup that keeps giving.

Set an alarm for some time during the day when you are to call yourself back to self and become present with the times.

"Inhale, exhale and be guided"

Drink more water.

Read up and educate yourself on yourself- books from mental health to spirituality which ever way the boat goes, flow.

Be honest with yourself, really honest. How do you feel right now?

How about you rest - not quit- rest, for right now?

Esoteric Babe, Thandie 

[its-esoteric]

Seeing Ourselves: Why On-Screen Representation Matters

Platforms such as Dstv, Showmax, and more recently Netflix have made it more accessible for black womxn storytellers to write, produce and direct their bodies of work. Seeing more black womxn storytellers on local and international platforms is an affirming reflection of the successful careers available to young black womxn in the creative industry.

Seeing black womxn being cast as leads or work as creative drivers of the content that we consume surely is a testament to our existence, our aspirations and dare I say, the future of the global creative industry. And for that, we at It’s Esoteric, can’t help but celebrate these important wins. Woza sibashayele izandla

The first black womxn I will highlight is Busisiwe Ntintili who owns and produces stories from her company The Ntintili Factory. One of the first productions from the leading lady was the highly acclaimed educational series about the spread of HIV among multiple sexual partners, Intersexions (2010). The series was a hit on SABC 1 and went on to win Ntintili a Peabody Award. Now that is what I call award-winning edutainment!

Busisiwe Ntintili went on to romance us with severe black girl magic by producing the film adaption of the book Happiness is a Four Letter Word written by Cynthia Jele. The film follows the friendship of three successful black womxn, all trying to juggle life, love and everything in between. Thinking back to 2016, I don’t think South African cinema had seen such a boisterous yet complex representation of an all-black womxn leading cast.

Another round of applause? I think yes!

As a curator and young black womxn myself, I would be remiss if I did not mention the multitalented artist, actress, and director Mmabatho Montsho. This creative goddess is a true representation of existing in the highest expression of her potential. We first saw her on our local television screens as Lumka on the popular SABC 1 television soapie Generations. She also happens to be one of the leading ladies on Busisiwe Ntintili’s Happiness is a Four Letter Word – shout out to black womxn collaborations!

Not only does she do an excellent job on screen, but her talent also extends behind the scenes where she has written for award-winning Mzansi Magic hit series Lockdown (another all-female lead project). There’s more, Mmabatho Montsho is responsible for directing an award-winning short film based on the struggle hero Winnie Madikizela-Mandela played by singer and songwriter Simphiwe Dana. Now if that isn’t black girl empowerment, I’ll never know what is.

Simphiwe Dana stands dressed in the Methodist Womxn’s Movement aka uManyano attire symbolising faith, strength, and resistance.

Last but certainly not least, a pioneering producer in the South African creative industry is Netflix African original script to screen producer Nosipho Dumisa. Together with her production company, Gambit Films, this leading lady partnered with Netflix to give us strong black leads in the form of a teen drama, titled Blood and Water ( 2020 – Out now on Netflix). What we can all appreciate about Nosipho Dumisa is that she used up and coming actors who we may have seen in our local screens and placed them on an international platform such as Netflix.

The Number 37 (2018) director is inspired by the passion that is instilled by her job, despite the many (many) challenges that come with being a black womxn director operating in South Africa’s creative industry. However, her experience as the business owner of Gambit Films has meant that she has had to open doors for herself but what we can appreciate from this is how she has taken young black womxn with her in the rise of her success and we can’t help but to stan!

As I wrap up, allow me to put together a few international names that have also contributed to a healthy amount of my screen time: Mindy Kaling (Ocean’s 8, A Wrinkle in Time, The Mindy Project), Issa Rae (our current favourite show Insecure and The Photograph), Ava Duvernay (When They See Us, Queen Sugar, A Wrinkle in Time) and Shonda Rhimes (Grey’s Anatomy, Private Practice and of course Scandal – the Olivia Pope version)

ItsEsoteric babe, Lethabo 

[its-esoteric]

#HERCoin: Me and my bae, bands 💰

In uni, academia became my first bae but after I left, that obviously had to shift to something else, and that something else inevitably became none other than madibas and di dolla. 

Now if you’re one of those girls who’s had a nice balance of healthy relationships in life, kudos to you sis. Unfortunately some of us ain’t been blessed like that, so when I referred to money as ‘bae’ it probably brought up some negative connotations. In this article I want to not only break down what my version of having a healthy relationship with money means, but I’d like to also share with you the personal 3-step thought process I go through before I pull a few buffalos out my purse. I hope this article gives you a basic template on how to save money in your 20s, and also encourages you to be more intentional with your relationship with money.

Before you misunderstand where “money” falls in the hierarchy of my life, I’ll share that I actually see no personal value in money itself. I see value in the things that money can afford me. This is further broken down to, my desired experiences and my goals. Those are the two things that inspire me to get my coins. I believe that when you stop thinking “If only I had R100 000 I’d be happy” and shift to “If only I could afford to pay for that travel experience to Thailand” you put yourself in a better position to prioritise yourself and improve your relationship with money overall. I don’t think being driven to just “make money” is enough, but being driven by experiences and goals that money can provide, just might be.

Thats key number one. Key number 2, is that being financially aware in your 20s requires intention, thought and planning.

INTENTION to understand why you’re about to spend time specifically THINKING about what goals and experiences make your money important to you, and then making sure you’re PLANNING how you’re going to make sure your coins are going to be there to support those goals when you need them.

Lets be real sis, kunzima to adult, and with this pandemic coming out of nowhere, I’ve personally been mindful about navigating how I’m spending my money while not knowing how this virus will affect me in the long run.

The most important trait to have is discipline. I would probably be living paycheck to paycheck without discipline. It’s obviously different for everyone, but I haven’t suffered from FOMO in a while. Being able to independently manage my financial bag without the influence of who’s asking me to link up with them or whichever fashion brand is now on sale, is a trait I’m always thanking baba god for. My guap (money) does not reflect Sindi’s guap.

Finally this brings me to key number 3, the practical section. Once you have discipline, this part should be easier. This, is my personal thought process that I go through before I whip out ANY coins:

1. I make a list of all the items I want and make sure to include their total price.

I like to buy multiple things all at one time, with the understanding that I’m buying things that I’m not going to need again for at least a month or two and things that I’m sure I want. This includes indulgent items and sometimes I even buy ahead. This is important because it gives you a clear idea on how much money you can expect to lose whenever you’re ready to bid those coins goodbye. Also, you don’t want to buy things one by one everyday because, fees.

2. Check my bank account

This is the most important step, checking in with my bank. She’s strict and loves the finer things in life.

Now you should note that I think this step is easier if you have more than one bank account (current account and a savings account). This makes budgeting easier, as you put aside the money you know you NEED for bills and groceries (which also need their own budget) in your savings, while resting assured that money in your current account is yours to be wise with. It’s the figure in my current account that accepts or declines my desires or splurges for that month. Hellooo discipline.

3. Do NOT spend it all!

If your bank account agrees with you, great! However, DON’T make it rain girl. Be mindful, you don’t want to have to wait a month to splurge on yourself again. I try not to spend close to half of what’s in my current. For e.g. if I have R10 000 in my account, I’m not splurging more than R4000 in that month, MAX R5500 if I'm being cheeky.

Obviously this guideline isn’t going to work for everybody, but it’s just to give you an idea of how much intention, thought and planning goes into making extra monthly purchases for me because sis...

This has worked for me thus far and mi money don’t look too bad! 😅

I hope you and your money continue to flourish girl!

If you enjoyed this article comment and let #itsEsoteric know so I can know if you’d make use of an article on how to build a budget 😉

Esoteric babe GUGU xx

[its-esoteric]

Stay Informed, Stay Safe

Hey girl, 

We just wanted to share with you a few links that can help you stay on top of all the COVID-19 stats and information you may need :

https://www.gov.za/coronavirus

https://health.hydra.africa

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rAj38E7vrS8&t=6s

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BtN-goy9VOY

[its-esoteric]

A quick guide to balancing your chakras during quarantine🔮

So, just like you, I know how much being in quarantine sucks & how frustrating it can get. In order for me to not lose my sanity, I try hard to stay balanced & sane, my way. I’ve decided to share my saving grace with you and create a simple 5 step guide to balancing your chakras during this weird time.

Step 1:

Spend time in nature.

Now I know this one may be tricky, since we can’t really go out, but for those of you who have a garden, go out & spend some time in there. Relax, breath & take it all in. Sitting in the grass or with you plants is a good way for you to connect & absorb all the energy from nature. This exercise will help you feel at peace & more grounded. For those who have no garden, spending some time with your plants is just as meaningful.

Step 2:

Practice creative visualisation.

You’ve got to clear your mind of negative energy!!

Negative energy will always block/cloud your thoughts & we don’t need that. Once you’ve cleared your mind you’ve got to visualise images that represent love & happiness to you. For example, you could think about your favourite flower, slowly opening up & blessing each of your chakra’s. Basically we only want positive thoughts.

Step 3:

B R E A T H E

Breathing with intention is one of the most effective ways to restore your chakras because it’s extremely important that you release! So, in order to bring your chakras into their harmonic & natural balance, when you inhale, you’ve got to direct the energy of your breath to your chakra & when you exhale you need to allow awareness to settle into the chakra. Remember deep breaths. Fill your lungs with as much oxygen as you can.

Step 4:

Surround yourself or wear the right colours.

Each of your chakras emits different colours & each colour represents a specific vibration. So whatever chakra you’re specifically trying to work on, you’ve got to wear or surround yourself with the colours that represents that specific chakra

Red- Root chakra

Orange- Sacral chakra

Yellow- Solar plexus chakra

Green or pink- Heart chakra

Blue- Throat chakra

Indigo or purple - Third eye chakra

Purple or white - Crown chakra

Step 5:

Practice gratitude.

When you’re in a state of gratitude, you instantly raise your vibration sequence. This is key.

When you raise your vibrations, you are opening up your chakras & attracting more positivity into your life. You’re attracting happiness, abundance, peace & love. This is creating a path for better relationships in all aspects.

You are manifesting for all the things you are lacking in your life, & are opening up channels while allowing room for growth, new possibilities & opportunities. You are giving & receiving positive energy as well as positive vibrations into your life.

I hope this guide helps! Please be sure to drop a comment to let us know how any of these steps supported you! 

Remember, konke kuzolunga 

Esoteric Babe Amanda xx

[its-esoteric]

Eating healthy and clean, even in quarantine 💁🏾‍♀️

A healthy eating plan gives your body the nutrients it needs everyday while staying within your daily calorie goal for weight maintenance or weight loss. I often counsel my friends that the best diet for weight loss is not really a “diet” but rather a healthy approach to eating that makes them feel good and that is good for their body.

I do not want to lie and say that I am disciplined when it comes to eating correctly and making sure I have a balanced diet, and although I have a multiple selection of my own personal favourite meals, which I am going to share with you guys in a second, healthy eating is not so difficult or ‘expensive’ as many might say.  My suggestion is to try combining a whole-foods, eating approach. Your ‘whole-foods’ are plant foods that are unprocessed and unrefined before being consumed. A few examples include tubers (which are plants that mainly grown underground. i.e. potatoes), legumes, fruits and vegetables.

During these unforeseen times with the majority of the world being affected by the COVID-19 epidemic, it is very important that we aware of the necessary foods which will contribute to boosting our immune system. I have been snacking a lot on citrus fruits (oranges, lemon, lime) and salads which are essential in immune boosting. These are not the only things, you could snack on some bell peppers (red, green, yellow), broccoli, small meals containing garlic, ginger, spinach, yoghurt and almond just to name a few.

A lot of people sleep on it but soup is also the best when it comes to gaining nutrients, this is because a lot of ingredients with vitamins, nutrients and minerals, are added into soups. A recipe of one of my favourite soupsis illustrated below followed by another recipe of my favourite healthy immune boosting breakfast meal.  

Hearty Vegetable Soup with Beef

Ingredients

•       2 l beef stock

•       15 ml olive oil

•       500 g chuck, boned and cubed

•       2 onions, sliced into half rings

•       3 cloves garlic, crushed

•       90 ml tomato paste

•       3 cups diced carrots

•       3 cups diced potatoes

•       250 g frozen green peas

•       salt and freshly ground black pepper

•       chopped fresh parsley

Method

INSTRUCTIONS:

1.      Bring beef stock to a boil in a saucepan; cook for 15 minutes or until reduced to 2 cups.

2.      Set aside.

3.      Heat oil in another saucepan over medium high heat. Add beef and brown all over.

4.      Remove from pan and set aside.

5.      Add onion, garlic and tomato paste; cook for 5 minutes, stirring constantly.

6. Return beef to pan.

7. Add reduced stock, carrots, potatoes, peas, salt and pepper.

8. Bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 45 minutes or until vegetables are tender.

9. Ladle into soup bowls; garnish with parsley.

Tropical Breakfast

Ingredients

•       1 cup of homemade dairy-free coconut yogurt

•       1 teaspoon pure maple syrup

•       1 kiwi, sliced

•       ½ mango, diced

•       2 tablespoons of berries (I used goji berries, but you could use whichever ones are your personal fav)*

•       1 tablespoon chia seeds*

* These Ingredients are optional and can be found at Woolworths, FoodLover’s Market, or Organic Food outlets.

Method

INSTRUCTIONS:

1.         In a large bowl, mix together the yogurt and maple syrup.

2.         Top with kiwi and mango.

3.         Garnish with berries, chia seeds, raw cacao nibs if using.

4.         Enjoy!

If you’re allergic to nuts and seeds, or even dairy products, try using a vegan alternative for the yoghurt (or if you don’t mind, taking on a challenge, try making your own vegan yogurt😉) or you could remove the chia seeds all together. The meal should still slap!

Enjoy girl! && if you try any of these recipes please let us know how they worked out for you!

Esoteric Babe Nqobile xx

[its-esoteric]

Practicing the art of empathy

How often do black girls get to meet their role models? Once? Hardly? Or not often enough. I would have to go with the latter. Sitting in an audience made up of fashion students, media representatives and other curious members of the creative industry, I was pleasantly surprised when I recognised one of South Africa’s black ballet dancers sitting in the panel of African creatives.

With little to no information about who would be participating in the African Fashion International Masterclasses, all the information that propagated the AFI’s social media platforms had everything to do with the fashion shows and nothing to do with the masterclasses. Alas, I soon realised that I would be meeting, for the very first time, my role model. Renowned prima ballerina Kitty Phetla sat alongside fashion designer Sibusiso Mahone, visual artist Loyiso Mkhize, media personality Lee Kasumba and Nontando Mposo who facilitated day two of the AFI Masterclass titled Creative’s Corner.

As a former ballet dancer who dedicated 15 years of her life to dance studios including the South African Ballet Theatre, now as an independent curator, my interest in a Creative’s Corner Masterclass  has more to do with enriching my own sense of African culture, beyond the museum and gallery spaces.

So my curiosity was met with much surprise as I saw someone I resonated with, artistically, sitting in on the panel. Amid a lively conversation about the challenges of supporting local versus buying international, ballet dancer Kitty Phetla gave us all a taste of humble pie. She stripped the pretty and flawless persona of the artist sitting in front of us and gently served us with a dose of heart-breaking reality, which none of us saw us coming.

Responding to a question about how she deals with personal difficulty affecting her career, Kitty Phetla gave us an honest response which touched on an important conversation that we as black womxn hardly speak of, mental health. After losing her mother and brother almost three years ago, she still carries the trauma of that loss today. To quote fellow panellist Lee Kasumba, artists are the closest beings to God. And it is because of their willingness to give into vulnerability that makes their craft so great. However, just like everyone else, they go through hardships and moments of self-doubt which directly affect the quality of their craft.

As such, in these current conditions where most social gatherings have been cancelled due to COVID -19, it is important to be empathetic towards artists. Yes, everyone is feeling a little frustrated at being cooped up indoors, so let’s extend this empathetic gesture to each other and our artists who give us outstanding performances on stage as well as much needed comfort at home through movies, music and books.

So yes, on this day, this black girl met her role model and it was even better than I expected because from one black womxn to another, I can only stan at seeing successful representations of black womxn who, just like me, don’t have it all together all the time.

Remember there is power in vulnerability!

Esoteric babe Lethabo xx

[its-esoteric]

#HERSlay: Inspirational South African Fashion Brand Owners

In South Africa there are many creative and innovative women who have put their dreams into reality and are now fashion brand owners. A lot of them inspire me as I once had a passion for fashion and would love to one day have a brand of my own. In high school I took consumer studies as one of my subjects and our practicals would require us to sow. My love for making clothing erupted from then onwards and I sometimes make my own clothes.

Here is my top 3 list of fashion brand owners that inspire me and a little background about who they are and what their fashion senses are.

Nhlanhla Nciza  [@nhlanhla_nciza]

NN Vintage is a bright and bold African design fashion brand founded by Nhlanhla Nciza. NN Vintage reflects Nhlanhla’s unique style and passion for traditional African wear but with a contemporary twist to it, I love African prints and Nhlalnhla has a unique way of mixing bright colours and still have it not look too “loud”. Her line of African-chic dresses, peplum tops, skirts and pants is inspired by fashion from the 1940s to the 80s. Most of the way I dress is also inspired by the 80’s and the 90’s. You may find her clothing at her online store on Facebook and Instagram.

Lola Kyle  [@lolakyle]

Lola Kyle is a social media influencer and host. Apparelbykyle is one of my favourites because she caters to millennials she makes tracksuit pants, tops, basketball shorts, biker tights, body suits, crop tops, normal T-shirts and oversized T-shirts.That is normally my dress code on a typical, regular day. As a student these clothes are presentable and still allow you to be comfortable at an affordable price. You can pre-order all merchandise on Lola’s Instagram page and clothing page @apparelbykyle.

Nozipho Zulu [@nozipho_zulu_]

Nozipho Zulu the owner of ZeeShop is one of the fashion designers that inspires me the most, she was born and raised in KwaZulu Natal and just like me loves creating elegant clothing that allow you to be comfortable, there is nothing I love more than to be comfortable in my clothes, I don’t like clothing that fits too tight.

Nozipho caters for people like me and her goal is comfortability whilst still feeling glamorous. If you do wish to access or buy any of her merchandise you can find her online store at www.zeeshop.co.za or at her physical shop in Sandton.

There are many more South African brand owners that are creative and talented like the women I have mentioned in this article but, the ones I have mentioned above influence my sense of style and I find inspiration in all of them. They are living testimony that dreams do come true.

Esoteric Babe Nqobile xx

[theveiledalchemist-deactivated2]

Black Women Are

Pioneers: Harriet Tubman

Educated: 

Dr. Hadiya Nicole Green AKA  The Pioneer in the fight against cancer

Michelle Obama

Beautiful: Jackie Aina (She’s also artistic, intelligent, funny)

Uzo Aduba

Soulful: Chargaux 

Nina Simone

Phenomenal:  Oprah  

Beyonce

Hilarious:  Leslie Jones 

Gabourey Sidible

Poetic: Maya Angelou

Lauryn Hill

Confident: 

Marsai Martin

Solange Knowles 

Yara Shahidi 

Fearless: Assata Shakur & Angela Davis

Unwavering:   Lezley McSpadden, Gwen Carr, Wanda Johnson,  and Sybrina Fulton aka Mothers of The Movement

Fighters:  Alicia Garza, Patrisse Cullors, and Opal Tometi aka founders of #BlackLivesMatter

Visionaries: Ava Duvernay (Director)

Shonda Rhimes (producer, screenwriter)

Determined: Ilhan Omar (Politician)

Olympians:

Gabby Douglas

Simone Biles

Serena and Venus (and someone asking them a dumb question)

Allyson Fellix

Ibtihaj Muhammad

Some Bonus Awesomeness:

Amber Riley

Kerry Washington, Taraji P Henson, and Mary J Blige 

Janelle Monae 

Despite being one of the most disrespected demographics, black women remain to be an integral part of America’s (and also global) history, present, and future. Validate, and humanize them. And take note of all the badassery and awesomeness. 

[its-esoteric]

https://www.google.co.za/amp/www.theartnewspaper.com/amp/feature/why-african-women-artists-are-bucking-the-market-trend

Today we’ve got an #itsArtsoteric feature written by Anny Shaw titled ⁣

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“Why African women artists are bucking the market trend”⁣

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It’s a wonderfully interesting article that looks at the growing success of female African artists and how this marks an exciting shift in the market🎨⁣

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Let us know which artist’s work stands out the most for you 🤩⁣

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[its-esoteric]

HOW TO BECOME A GIRL BOSS - Motty Inspires

Hey Mott Fam! I am so excited to bring you another blog post that will inspire and empower the ladies to move a step higher on the success l

The week starts a fresh today, which means we’re resetting and getting ready to go hard once again.

Here’s a little motivation to get you to focus on BOSSING UP. Thank you to Motty for this wonderful tips list!

Share with us your favourite tip 💕 and Level up this week ma 🏆

[its-esoteric]

Guidelines for Skin Mark Prevention

Growing up as a young black woman, skin hyperpigmentation and discolouration (dark spots or patches, uneven skin tone, and sun spots which normally target the face, neck, shoulder and back area of the body) were always a major skin concern for me. So much so, that when I found out that climate change, my diet plan and many other contributing factors had something to do with it, it became easier to maintain and regulate my skin.

Our largest organ, the skin, functions to regulate the body temperature and extrinsic factors that contribute to many skin conditions, which require care.

Not many of us are aware or grew up aware that weather changes (wind, humidity, and ultraviolet (UV) light), and changes in our diet contribute to changes in our skin.

An influx of sun exposure increases the melanin in the skin which in turn makes it darker in summer. Applying sunblock frequently when leaving the house should be a norm. Try limiting overexposure to air conditioning and central heating, this may dry out the skin and possibly cause scarring which in turn causes blemishes. Keep hydrated, drinking water keeps the skin hydrated ensuring that it breathes. We all know how insanely humid it can get during summer and that often causes pimples for people like myself, with oily skin, which later leaves dark marks. Drinking water lessens the probability of that happening.

Unlike summer and spring, it’s less humid in winter and autumn, meaning the air is more dry. But remember ladies, cold air tightens the pores and reduces blood circulation, and you should always strive for your face to always be moisturised, cause skin flaking is a real thing sis, especially if your skin type is dry. Using a cream cleanser and a face mask is ideal in preventing the skin from feeling tight and itchy.

Try to prevent unhealthy habits too. In winter I tend to eat a lot more, exercise less and not drink much water and this can lead to having really dull skin. Hormonal imbalance is another common factor of hyperpigmentation - normally because of the hormonal changes such as ovulation and your menstrual cycle. A few other things like stress, a lack of vitamins in your body, pregnancy and even genetics can contribute to skin complications.

Ultimately, healthy skin is a journey and you need to take the time to identify what external factors are contributing to your skin concerns and not be afraid to make some adjustments 💛

Esoteric Babe Nqobile xx

[its-esoteric]

#HERWorld

5 Important Reasons Why World Travel Is Good For You

Did you know that traveling the world may be the perfect prescription for your physical and mental health? Instead of spending your money on

[its-esoteric]

#itsLevelUpSzn

Focusing on yourself includes being super protective over your goals and manifestations. ⁣

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We want to share with you an article by JennasWorldView, where she shares some insightful information on why real g’s move in silence like lasagne😅 ⁣

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“Move in silence. The less people know, the better” ⁣

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Move in Silence the less people know the better! - Jenna's World View

Move in silence the less people know the better. In the world of social media and oversharing we do ourselves any favours sharing sacred inf

[its-esoteric]

#HERWorld✈️

Today we’re looking at what things we should take note of, as we travel and close the year ✈️

Hit the link and explooooreee

20 Travel Tips From Black Travel Bloggers

Twenty Black Travel Bloggers share their top travel tips covering everything from saving to travel, finding flight and accommodation deals a

[its-esoteric]

Cuz I Love You: A Lizzo Appreciation Piece — Blk Girl Culture

She’s 100% that bitch. By now, unless you’re truly living in a remote location (and under a rock) you know her name. If you’ve yet to see h

#itsArtsoteric:

Today we’re catching up on some art news. Lizzo’s been out here representing Black Girl Excellence all 2019!⁣

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Haven’t heard of her?? She’s everywhere! Catch up on the link🤩⁣