In a world bustling with demands and distractions, cultivating a beauty culture rooted in self-care has become a cornerstone of holistic well-being. Welcome to a journey of introspection and empowerment, as we explore the intricacies of beauty, historical perceptions and the modern definition of this concept.
As we look forward to International Beauty Day, we’ve created this blog to give you some valuable insights into the concept of beauty, including what it actually is, and handy tips to help you achieve the confidence and power of being beautiful both inside and out.
The Beauty Culture Journey
What is International Beauty Day?
Before we dive into the heart of creating your very own self-care beauty culture, let’s mark a significant date on the calendar – International Beauty Day.
Celebrated on September 9th, this day serves as a reminder to honour and appreciate the beauty that resides within us and around us. It’s a moment to pause and embrace the essence of self-care that rejuvenates the spirit.
It is a time to think about what beauty is and what it means to us and how important the concept of beauty is in today’s world. There are no easy answers, so taking a day to think about these ideas makes perfect sense.
How Do You Define Beauty?
Beauty, often said to be in the eye of the beholder, is more than you see on the surface. We all have our own idea of what we see as being beautiful, and that is what makes the world so interesting. Similarly, we all have our own idea of what internal beauty is, and your beauty culture is all about what you value most in the world.
Essentially, beauty is the harmony of confidence, kindness, authenticity and self-love that radiates from within. It’s the uniqueness that sets us apart and the shared threads that bind us together. The beauty culture we aspire to create extends beyond physical appearance to embrace the entirety of our being.
What Does Beauty Mean To You?
This is one of those questions that cause us to stop and think. What does beauty mean to you?
It’s a question that invites you to consider deeply what you value, your personal perceptions, and narratives. Beauty could be the curve of a smile, the sparkle in someone’s eyes, strength in vulnerability, resilience, kindness, humour, or anything else that sparks your imagination.
Your journey to crafting a beauty culture begins with recognising and celebrating the beauty that you notice in the world.
Historical views of beauty
Throughout history, what people think of as beautiful has continually changed. Here are some examples:
- Ancient Egypt: Symmetry and Elegance
The beauty culture of ancient Egypt was closely linked to notions of symmetry and elegance. Both men and women idealised smooth, youthful skin and a slender physique. Wealthy Egyptians often used cosmetics like kohl to enhance their eyes and elaborate wigs and headpieces to emphasise their features.
- Ancient Greece: Balance and Proportion
Ancient Greek beauty standards emphasised balance and proportion. For men, a muscular physique and a strong jawline were highly prized. Women were admired for their clear skin, bright eyes, and graceful figures.
- Renaissance Europe: Fair Complexions and Full Figures
During the Renaissance, fair complexions were associated with wealth and nobility in Europe. A plump figure was considered attractive, signifying a person’s access to plenty of food.
- Victorian Era: Purity and Modesty
The Victorian era in the 19th century celebrated a more reserved form of beauty. Pale skin, rosy cheeks and a modest demeanour were highly regarded. Women often used natural products like beeswax and rosewater to maintain their appearance.
What Is Beauty Today?
In our contemporary age, the canvas of beauty is more inclusive and expansive than ever before. It’s a celebration of diverse skin tones, body shapes, gender identities, and individual stories.
Beauty culture today champions self-expression, self-acceptance, and empowerment. It’s about embracing your authentic self and allowing that authenticity to shine brightly.
Tips For Self-care
Exuding beauty is anchored in self-care, a practice that fuels your mind, body, and soul. Here are some tips you can put into use today to kickstart your journey:
- Mindful Moments: Dedicate moments daily to mindfulness, whether through meditation, deep breathing or simply being present in the moment. Nurturing your mind is an essential facet of self-care.
- Prioritise Sleep: Quality sleep is your body’s rejuvenation time. Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep each night to wake up refreshed and ready to conquer the day.
- Hydration Rituals: Keep your body hydrated with plenty of water and nourishing fluids. Hydration supports your skin, digestion, and overall vitality.
- Cleanse the Day Away: Develop a routine to rid yourself of the daily routine. Cleansing your skin and getting out of your work clothes are great ways to separate you from the stresses and demands.
- Nourishing Nutrition: Fuel your body with a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Nutrient-dense foods contribute to vibrant skin and well-being.
- Physical Activity: Engage in regular exercise that brings you joy, whether it’s dancing, yoga or a brisk walk. Movement elevates your mood and boosts your energy levels.
Skincare and Beauty
At the heart of your beauty culture lies skincare, a practice that honours and cares for your skin’s health. This is the ultimate way to make you glow inside and out.
For example, using a daily moisturiser repairs your skin and leaves it feeling vibrant and smooth. In turn, this builds your internal confidence and helps you emit that joy and internal beauty that comes from knowing that you are looking after yourself.
Do things that make you feel good and happy within yourself.
How To Maintain Beauty
Maintaining beauty is an ongoing journey, a commitment to self-care and self-love. Here’s how to ensure your beauty culture flourishes:
- Consistency: Consistency is key in skincare and self-care. Regularly engage in practices that rejuvenate your body and mind.
- Adaptability: Your beauty approach should evolve with you. Embrace changes in your routine as your needs shift over time.
- Positive Self-Talk: Your inner dialogue matters. Replace self-criticism with self-compassion and affirmations that reinforce your worth.
- Connection: Connect with your inner self and the world around you. Meaningful relationships and experiences contribute to your well-being.
Ready to Embrace Your Beauty Culture?
Crafting the ultimate beauty culture is a voyage of self-discovery, self-care, and self-love. It’s about embracing your uniqueness, celebrating diversity, and nurturing your mind, body, and spirit. As you embark on this journey, remember that Bianca Miller London is here to support you with products that amplify your radiance. Let your beauty culture shine as a reflection of your authentic, beautiful self, and treat yourself with our range of Hian skin products today.