Pregnancy....what's it to you?

When I think of what to  Beauty truly means I can not help but think pregnancy!  Of course there are new things we experience and some may be more challenging than others, and with positive thoughts and dreams you can create the pregnancy experience you deserve.

Through many years of working in the beauty industry I have learned that beauty is an encompassing thought pattern which can easily be brought into life on a daily basis. Beauty to me means inner and outer love, taking time for yourself, acceptance, joy etc.....nurture yourself and enjoy the moment.  

I have experienced two pregnancies, one that I struggled through the whole 9 months because I was consumed with fear and was not aware that I had a right to take good  care of myself  emotionally.  I had been told to eat right and get ready for the baby, nurturing myself and beauty did not exist and my experience mirrored my lack of self love and attention.

Years later I was blessed with my second pregnancy, only this time I applied and lived new acts of self-love and nurturing.  I focused on only the positive and released all the negative thoughts.  I followed my own advice and looked and felt fabulous! My second pregnancy was an awesome experience full of beauty and fulfillment.  I truly believe you must put yourself first and look your best (hair, nails, skin etc) before you can give to anyone else, the amount of positive energy that I experienced was my inspiration for sharing my years of  beauty  knowledge and personal growth.

Here are some of my favorite ideas:

• Schedule yourself on the calender (yes the calender)
• Knowledge is power; know your hair color options during pregnancy (Tons of info on maternitysalon hair color pages)
• Schedule a professional "Blow Dry" (it is so awesome, I love this!)
• Do your hair and make-up every day regardless of your schedule (it is for you)
• Refresh your make-up bag with new items; beauty counters are a great resource to get new stuff and affordable with all the promos they run.(gift with purchase is one of my favorite!)
• Take time to play; what did you love to do when you were a child? Try it!
• Get regular manicures and pedicures
• Barter for services with other moms 
• Wear trendy and put together maternity outfits; drop the sweats!
• Treat yourself at least once a week to a special gift, just for you. ( it could be as simple as a special coffee or lip gloss)
• Tell yourself you love yourself and your growing belly!
• Be open and honest with your hair needs to your stylist, it's about you!

Enjoy the moment!

Meri