What are your best qualities?
I am naturally very curious about people and the world. I approach most things with an open mind and am not afraid to share my opinion but also not afraid to disagree. I love to dance like no one is watching and I try to share all that I have with others.
Do you have any undesirable qualities?
I often worry if my directness is too much for some. It is hard for me to “tone it down” and I think that can be intimidating. Even though I say with my words “What do you think?” I want to be better at just giving space for those who have a different way of sharing.
What do you love the most about your body?
Funny enough, my skin! My father is Portuguese and he gifted me a beautiful layer of olive toned skin that is smooth and goes gold in the sun. I also love my hands, which I got from my Mother.
Tell us the story about your scars...
A few years ago I started to notice small bumps arising on my body. These were not pimples but hard red circles. The first arrived on my back. The second on my left arm. It has taken me many years, 3 surgeries, and a few biopsies to learn that these bumps are an over-correction of my body’s healing process that develops scar tissue over an injury like a scratch or a bug bite. Because my Mother died of cancer related to melanoma, I have to get these growths biopsies always. I have always been negative, but I know that this is not the last of these growths - but I accept that.
My stretch marks used to keep me from wearing shorts. I have wide hips and my thighs are strong. The stretch marks are part of me and I love them!
What was your response when you first noticed your body changing?
I tried to fight it. I tried to use money and resources to stop it.
How did those around you make you feel about these changes?
They were supportive but also encouraged me to leave it alone. I am blessed with a very loving support system.
Describe your journey with body acceptance...
I have always been un-ashamed and unafraid of the human form in the nude. I studied art history in school and the statues and the paintings made me see that this love is shared so deeply. I have struggled with my weight and the universal female experience of comparing myself to others. I now appreciate my uniqueness.
How do you incorporate self-love into your routine?
I write it down. I write notes to myself. I apologize to myself. I exfoliate and rub lotion on my body. I give myself hugs.
What about self-love are you continuing to work on?
Forgiveness for the many years I abused myself with smoking, using alcohol and not exercising. I lived a very unhealthy life for several years and I am fearful of the damage I have done. I need to move on and not live in fear. My body serves me well, she has forgiven me already. I need to forgive me.
What is one of your qualities you wish shined brighter than your exterior appearance?
That I am just as afraid as others. That I may have a good outfit, I smile and laugh and am outwardly confident but I am actually just as self conscious as others. I guess to summarize, I want people to know that I am very humble. I don’t think I am special or different or better than anyone else.
What lesson do you hope to instill in your children about self-love & body acceptance?
Your differences are the beauty. In Japanese culture there is a concept called kintsugi or kintsukuroi which is where you fill imperfections in ceramics with gold. Also, don’t get tattoos.
What makes you the happiest in the world?
My partner, my friends & music.