For the most part, here are some services that are missing during the global pandemic, largely associated with grooming:
-Barbershops
-Beauty parlors
-Nail salons
-Waxing
-Eyebrow shaping
-Gyms
And the list goes on…
It is unfortunate on many levels because people offering these services may be out of work (some are offering these services privately or online, e.g. exercise sessions) during these times. We must send them love and support, however we can. For those who use these services things may be getting rough, literally. As a naturalista, occasionally, beyond maintaining my natural hair, I get my nails trimmed and polished, usually with a sparkly top coat added for fun. When social distancing and hoarding started to get real, I bought some nail polish remover (the last bottle in the store!) some sparkly nail top coat and natural cuticle oil (Vitamin E) that my daughter picked up for me. So, nail-wise, I’m good to go.
Natural Hair Rules
As for my hair, over a year or more ago (time flies), I took my locks out after 25+ years of having them. I now wear a fro, for the most part, with style variations. I have all sorts of headbands and clips so I wash, condition, oil, twist/braid/pick and go. Keeping it simple seems to be the logical way to go during these trying times. I also use an occasional Indian Henna, which is an excellent conditioner and color enhancer.
Getting Our Yoga On
For my body mind and spirit, I do yoga and meditation, everyday/night with my husband. The goal is to stay focused and relaxed, because during this pandemic, with social distancing etc., day-to-day life, along with ups and downs, still goes on. I do yoga outside in the sun so I get vitamin D and the experience of nature in my backyard with an occasional swim, before or after if the weather is really hot, which is usually the case in Miami. I say this in a state of complete humbleness with all due respect to any and everyone who may not have the opportunity to spread out in this way. I am very mindful of this daily and I never take any of these blessings for granted and express gratitude when I write daily in my journal. We are all blessed in some way, so whatever and however you are experiencing grace, be truly grateful and reach out to others who need a helping hand.
“Holding on to your mind” and keeping your body healthy is critical during this pandemic as the media takes us all on so many twists and turns, that we have no way of knowing what is really happening. I approach this by multi-sourcing the information that I take in and then writing my own pieces, from a public health vantage point, to contribute to the dialogue. Processing information and writing is part of my mental stimulation and reaching out to others. I also have a Mandarin language class one evening a week on-line and occasional Zoom meetings, based on invitations, or I enjoy the opportunity to speak with colleagues/fellow alumni on-line, and the occasional webinar.
Eating Right
In between all of this, I drink lots of water (usually with lemon) and I eat as healthy as possible to supplement the goodness that comes from my yoga regimen. I also enjoy a cup of coffee (organic) each morning and an occasional glass of wine/bubbly in the evening and enjoy lots of fresh fruits, vegetables, poultry (antibiotic and hormone free), lamb and beef (grass fed, antibiotic and hormone free), pasta and rice (organic and non-gmo) and fish (wild) for my various meals. Organic, antibiotic, hormone free, non-gmo and wild are some characteristics of my food that I prefer but with shelves that are not fully stocked, sometimes compromises must be made, but so far, so good. I have a sweet tooth so fruit, dark chocolate, nuts and the healthiest, natural snacks that I can find are up for grabs, in small amounts, as well as cheese and crackers. I’m a chocolate and cheese fanatic so I have to be mindful with those two items! The constant drinking of water, from my Propur, gravity filter, helps to keep my skin clear, along with lots of moisturizing.
The New Normal for Professionalism
Discussing my daily “stay inside” regimen may seem trivial on some levels but as I am watching folks on television, who are usually all dolled up with extensive make up, coiffed hair; suits, ties:, and “professional” attire providing the news, appearing on talk shows from various rooms in their home, etc. I’m realizing that we are seeing what these folks REALLY look like for the first time. This is rather refreshing. As for attire, I’m also realizing what I always knew. None of that “professional” wear is necessary to drop knowledge or share your gifts, nor is it necessary to be in an office to do certain types of work. it seems that all that is needed is a camera, video (a smart phone will do) spaces with good lighting, comfortable attire and the offering of whatever you have to give via writing, youtube, zoom, social media, etc. We are definitely finding out that working from home is a viable option for many professions. The working from home scenario is how I have been operating for years now, as an author and consultant, except when I travel abroad/nationally to lecture/speak.
Keep It Natural
In closing, to my fellow naturalistas, and everyone else, keep doing your natural regimen because natural is definitely cool enough during this pandemic. In the midst of this crisis, and all the time, it’s N.I.C.E.! Otherwise, partners may be looking at each other from head to toe each day, and getting some REAL hopefully wonderful, natural surprises. Ultimately, just try and find ways to relax and be you, naturally. By the way, until this is all over, my favorite color is green--as I see it as the predominant color of nature.
Patti R. Rose, MPH, Ed.D. - President and Founder, Rose Consulting, Miami, Florida
Note: The views and opinions in this blog are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the position of Jones & Bartlett Learning, LLC, the WHO, CDC or any other organizations. Statements in this webinar do not comprise medical or legal advice and are subject to change, particularly with respect to evolving public health issues, medical information and related guidance relative to COVID-19. We advise all readers to carefully monitor developments and advice of the CDC, WHO, and other public health experts and officials.
