A Naturalista Defined.

As a young woman entering the world, being a Naturalista was tied up to how quickly I could get out the door with the least amount of effort.  Back in school, I would prioritized quality skin care over make-up because having clear, even-toned skin meant less time in front of a make-up mirror. Same with clothes.  An iron-free shirt and dark jeans and jacket with ballet flats and a tote became the uniform of choice because it was easy, classic and comfortable. I could wear it everywhere  Thus a Naturalista was born. No fuss or artifice for me. Nowadays, its all about feeling good in my skin and being confident. I've learnt to embrace habits and rituals that prioritize my health and wellness and discard those that don't. I don't have to go hog wild to achieve good outcomes. Five minutes of meditation. Fifteen to twenty minutes dancing to my favorite hip hop beats.  A few stretching exercises every other day. I don't have to make fresh green juice every morning.  A quick salad or stir fried frozen cauliflower rice with ginger and garlic helps me easily meet my veggie quota for the day.  A date night can be lunch with friends, walking the dog or riding bikes in the neighborhood with pita chips, salsa or hummus. Don't get me wrong, a fancy night out in a sexy LBD, full make-up and heels can be fun but maximizing special moments everyday is what makes life memorable.  As I mature as a Naturalista, I want to be a responsible consumer that gives back to the world not only tangible resources I can hold but intangible resources like wisdom, hope and justice. This is how I define a life worth living.  This is how I define a Naturalista.