I always appreciate the thoughtful questions friends and followers send my way—whether they’re about skincare, self-care, or life’s big questions. Today, I wanted to take a moment to answer some of the most common (and fun) ones I’ve received lately.

Q: What’s the #1 thing I can do for healthier skin?
A: Hydration, inside and out. Most people think that means drinking water, but my friends and followers know that I coined the phrase, “Eat your water!” Because hydration is not just about how much you drink—it’s about how well your body holds the water in the cell. Eating water-rich foods like cucumbers and watermelon, building strong cell membranes by consuming essential fatty acids and phospholipids like lecithin, and using skincare products with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, all work together to keep your skin plump and glowing.

Q: What’s your best piece of advice for reducing stress?
A: Constant stress—or what I call “Cultural Stress”—is one of the biggest accelerators of aging and health issues, which is why stress management is not a luxury; it is essential. Because we live in a world that constantly demands more of us, it’s crucial to set our own boundaries by taking intentional breaks. One of my favorite techniques is what I call “Pause, Breathe, and Nourish.” Simply take a few moments each day to close your eyes, take deep breaths, and do something that brings you joy—whether it’s listening to music, stretching, or laughing with a friend.

Q: If you could give one piece of life advice, what would it be?
A: Be kind to yourself. Perfection is an illusion, and true health comes from embracing who you are, flaws and all. Treat yourself like you would your own best friend—with love, patience, and encouragement. Your mind and body will thank you.

Q: Are there any skincare ingredients you always recommend?
A: Absolutely! I always recommend antioxidants like Vitamin C to help brighten and protect against free radical damage. Retinol is another favorite for its ability to support collagen production and improve skin texture. And of course, SPF is non-negotiable—protecting your skin from sun damage is one of the most important things you can do to maintain a youthful complexion.

Q: What’s your personal favorite self-care ritual?
A: I love starting my mornings with a moment of gratitude. Before I even get out of bed, I take a deep breath and think of something I’m grateful for. It sets a positive tone for the day. Skincare-wise, I enjoy a good face mask once a week—it’s a simple but effective way to give my skin a boost while also creating a moment of relaxation.

Q: What’s one thing people don’t realize about skincare?
A: That it’s not just about what you put on your skin—it’s about what you put in your body and how you take care of yourself overall. Skincare is a holistic practice, which means that everything from your diet and hydration to your sleep and stress levels plays a role in how your skin looks and feels.

Q: What is the key to success?
A: Success isn’t just about achieving goals—it’s about enjoying the journey. I believe success is built on consistency, curiosity, and resilience. Stay open to learning, embrace challenges as opportunities, and don’t be afraid to take small steps forward every day. And most importantly, define success on your own terms—what brings you fulfillment may look different from someone else’s version of success, and that’s perfectly okay.

Q: What is your definition of happiness?
A: Happiness comes from within. It’s not something you find—it’s something you cultivate. I’ve found that true happiness is rooted in gratitude, meaningful connections, and a sense of purpose. When you appreciate the present moment, nourish relationships, and do things that align with your values, happiness naturally follows. It’s not about chasing perfection or external validation—it’s about embracing the joy in everyday life.

I love connecting with you all, so keep the questions coming! What’s on your mind today? Drop your thoughts in the comments, and let’s keep this conversation going.

That’s #ModernWellness!