On Point SPR ING 2019
SPRING 2019 | 1
944 5th Ave N | Naples, FL 34102 239.300.0092 patinacollection.com
SPRING 2019 | 3
Haley Bossart
Editor-In-Chief Rachael Rice
Creative Director Gretchen Sousa
Lead Photographer Logan Cox
Contributing Photographers Ariana Baio Mackenzie Williams Hannah Gutenstein
Content Marketing Manager Jackie Skarbek
Production Manager Lucia Zelaya
Event Planners Julia Tenaglia Carlie Dorsett
Stylist Christiana Bellusci
Assistant to CEO Maggie Goble
Website Contributors
Executive Website Manager
Brianna Fay
Brianna Fay
Sophia Mahachek
Entertainment Editor Livy Beaner
Wellness Editors Gabby Blayden Makenzie King
Health + Fitness Editor Gina Figliozzi
Beauty Editor Cydney Webb
Fashion Editor Chris Coscia
Cassidy Hamlin Jess Marley Hannah Mills Grace Obletz Jackie Skarbek Sarah Westin
Featured Artists Laura Locci Hannah Greene
Models Barron Chavez John Feeney McKenzie Jenkins
Travel Editor
Genevieve Koumentakos
Haley Bossart
Sofia Olivera
Campus Community Editor Brianna Scordato
Advertising Manager Allison Baldwin
Sammy Piccininni Alex Rossi Harrison Wujek
ONTRIBUTOR
Publisher + CEO
TABLE OF CONTENTS ENTERTAINMENT
TRAVEL
GENRES TO MATCH YOUR MOOD | 11
ZEITGEIST WOMAN
| 12
CAMPUS COMMUNITY
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MUSIC & YOUR HEALTH
WELLNESS
AN INTERVIEW WITH GERRI MCNEER
ALL STRUCK BY NATURE
| 15
THE INDIVIDUAL & SUSTAINABILITY
| 16
FEATURED ARTISTS
SPRING CLEANING YOUR MIND
| 18
LAURA LOCCI & HANNAH GREENE
| 45
| 49
| 51
SPOTLIGHT BRANT CREATIVE CO.
| 20
HEALTH & FITNESS HOW TO DITCH THE GYM
| 25
HOW TO DITCH THE DIET
| 26
BEAUT Y DIY FACE MASKS
| 29
SUPERFOODS FOR SUPER SKIN
| 30
FA SHION NATURE MEETS COUTURE DOWN TO EARTH
| 34 | 36
SPRING 2019 | 5
MEET THE
team
GRETCHEN SOUSA CREATIVE DIRECTOR
LUCIA ZELAYA PRODUCTION MANAGER
HALEY BOSSART CEO + PUBLISHER
LOGAN COX PHOTOGRAPHER
BRIANNA FAY EXECUTIVE WEBSITE MANAGER
RACHAEL RICE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
JACKIE SKARBEK CONTENT MARKETING MANAGER
Allison Baldwin Advertising Manage r
LIVY BEANER ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR
CHRIS COSCIA FASHION EDITOR
CARLIE DORSETT EVENT PLANNER
MAKENZIE KING WELLNESS EDITOR
CYDNEY WEBB BEAUTY EDITOR
CHRISTIANA BELLUSCI STYLIST
GABBY BLAYDEN WELLNESS EDITOR
BRIANNA SCORDATO CAMPUS COMMUNITY EDITOR
HANNAH GUTENSTEIN CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
GINA FIGLIOZZI HEALTH + FITNESS EDITOR
JULIA TENAGLIA EVENT PLANNER
MAGGIE GOBLE ASSISTANT TO CEO
SPRING 2019 | 7
LETTER FROM THE
publisher
I have been doing some research in my trend forecasting class about lifestyle changes for 2019 and 2020. One that stayed with me, throughout many Google finds, is the idea of being ‘in-touch’ with our clothes and our bodies. Immediately, fitness came to mind. I thought again. What would it be like to really feel ‘in-touch’ with our bodies and minds? Inspiration for this Spring 2019 issue, came from the idea of staying ‘in-touch’ with ourselves. To begin this lifestyle trend, we created ‘The Elements’, truly expressing how anyone can remain close to their intuition by following simple steps that connect them with the earth, the air around them, the water they touch, and the fire in their hearts. The elements, all together, have been unnoticed since the ‘digital dilemma’ came into play. On Point Magazine is integrating the most simple aspects of life back into the daily lives of individuals world-wide. Our writers have, once again, created beautiful articles in a cohesive manner that is relevant to all students. Logan, our photographer, used his talent and skill to showcase the beauty in all things, whether it be beauty, fitness, or fashion. It has been an incredible experience, watching the team work diligently and passionately on a subject matter that is so important, yet so easily unseen. With that, keep your eyes open and bodies grounded, keeping ‘The Elements’ in mind. Start recognizing the weather. How does it make you feel? Look at the next pond you see. How does it move? What is its color? Let us all pay attention to all the beautiful details life gives to us every day. All My Love,
Haley Bossart
LETTER FROM THE Welcome Back, Readers!
editor
As Spring begins to blossom, our On Point team chose to put a minimalist spin on your seasonal expectations. Channeling a more bohemian and earth-tone color palette than ever before: welcome to the Spring 2019 Issue of On Point Fashion & Lifestyle Magazine, themed ‘The Elements’. Inspiration was pulled in each of these articles in the pages to follow from the foundations of our planet: earth, wind, fire & water. We are so proud to feature a wide variety of talent in this Issue, including our Lead Photographer Logan Cox, and Production Manager Lucia Zelaya. We have so much on the horizon for our readers, including our newly released Youtube Channel, where our videographer, Jackie Skarbek, will take you through our behind-the-scenes of On Point and share a few of our Editor’s tips & tricks on beauty, fitness, fashion & lifestyle. We are thrilled to invite our readers and fashion enthusiasts alike to our Fashion Show & Release Party on Sunday, April 28th between 6 and 8 PM. We strived to connect current trends with students like you- showing how you can incorporate these looks into your day-to-day styling. To bridge your inspiration between issue releases, you can check out our Instagram @onpoint.magazine, and our newly released Pinterest account. We worked to celebrate and support you in this edition of On Point as we begin to transition to the warmer temperatures here on campus. Wishing you happy reading & a season that puts you in your ‘element’.
With Love,
Rachael Rice
SPRING 2019 | 9
T
A
E
N
T
E
R
I
M E N N
T
EARTH WIND FIRE WATER
GENRES TO MATCH YOUR MOOD By Livy Beaner
EARTH.
WIND.
Inspired by genres we commonly consider ‘down-to-earth’, while listening to these recommendations, try to envision a grassy field framed by mountains, stretching deep into your visual perspective.
Inspired by ‘breezy’ genres, while listening to these recommendations, make an attempt to envision white, cumulus clouds and the blue skies above you.
Genres may include indie & alternative:
• River Flows in You by Yiruma • The Civil Wars • Vivaldi • Beethoven • Mosart
• Promise by Ben Howard • Band of Horses • Iron and Wine • Bon Iver • Coldplay
Genres may include classical and jazz:
FIRE.
WATER.
Inspired by high intensity genres and some of our planet’s most complex natural phenomena, like a volcano or wildfire, these recommendations will surely match your fiercest mood.
Inspired by one of the most versatile genres, while listening to these recommendations, envision the color blue, a lake, beach, or other infinite bodies of water.
Genres may include rock & EDM:
Genres may include today’s pop music or pop rock from decades past:
• Wake Up by Excision • Skrillex • Illenium • Of Mice & Men • AC/DC
• Here Comes the Sun by The Beatles • Dua Lipa • Kanye West • Halsey
SPRING 2019 | 11
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MUSIC & YOUR HEALTH By Livy Beaner
Most of us want what is best for our health: we work towards healthy eating and regular exercise. But what if we look beyond the obvious and examine another way to keep our minds and bodies strong? Music has the power to touch everyone in some dimension, but how deeply does this impact permeate our souls and greater well-being? Studies show that music not only benefits our mental health, but also holds the power to improve illnesses some may develop in our later lives, like Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Studies have also found that music helps boost our physical performance, increasing ability. Music’s effects on the brain are boundlessand benefit more than just your ‘mood-of-the-moment’. Stress is one of the greatest culprits causing illness, and when trying to keep your body healthy, it is best to avoid those situations that inflame feelings of anxiety or worry. Unfortunately, stress is inevitable at times, and when those occasions arise, put on your favorite playlist and focus on a more encouraging energy. According to Dr. Michelle Millis Chappel, a graduate from Princeton and psychology professor at the University of California, Chappel noted that in recent studies researchers have found that when you are stressed, your brain releases the hormone, cortisol. However, by listening to music, you brain has the ability to counteract these effects and lower the amount released. Millions of people struggle with depression, and with depression, insomnia often follows. Studies have shown that those who listen to classical music before bed had more success sleeping than those who did not. Meditative music was also shown to lower depression and lift the listener’s spirits. It was also found that people who listened to heavy metal or EDM were more likely to become depressed. According to the research conducted by professor Kim Immes of epidemiology at West Virginia University’s School of Public Health, the study also concluded that music holds a special power in pain alleviation. The same study also found that music could help geriatric patients, as well as patients in the intensive care unit. The music proven to offer the most intense health benefits included the meditative and classical genres, or even songs that the patients chose themselves. Other studies show that dementia patients can have sudden bursts of memory restoration when listening to songs they enjoyed in certain periods of their lives, as well as songs from their youth. It has also been proven that stroke patients benefit from listening to music with lyrics, improving cognitive function, minimizing overall recovery time. Whenever you’re feeling down, crank up the jams to improve your mood, especially during times when you exhibit feelings of stress or anxiety. If you’re looking for ways to boost your health, look no further than your headphones.
SPRING 2019 | 13
W E L L N E S S
AWE-STRUCK BY NATURE THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF GETTING OUTSIDE By Gabby Blayden As children, we make it a priority to spend time outside. Now, we sometimes find the only time we allow ourselves to be outdoors is during a walk to class. On those days where my heart is beating fast and my head, filled with clutter, I tend to find myself walking next to the sidewalk instead of the beaten path. The softness of the earth and the sound of a crunching leaf beneath my feet is enough to breathe a little deeper: here, I find clarity. Human beings continually separate themselves from the wild and natural environment. Not coincidentally, rates of anxiety and depression have skyrocketed in the last few decades as we continue to stay inside and separate ourselves from our most primitive needs. We forget, through our daily lives and reinforcement, that we crave this natural connection. Too much time inside increases our levels of irritability and anxiety, leading to much greater issues, like our ability to fall asleep at night.
Brooke McAlary states in her podcast show notes: “Simply find an amount of time that works (for you) and stick to it. The aim is to keep [the practice] simple, but consistent, and to put “spend time outside” a little higher up your to-do list than normal, even on the days when it seems too hard. One day I spent my 60 minutes outside just sitting by the river watching the water flow, and [I was] reminded that we don’t need to overcomplicate this idea of reconnecting with nature. It doesn’t need to be grand, it doesn’t need to be exercise, it doesn’t need to be Instagramable.” Take advantage of the natural surroundings that are within your reach. Remember to take deep breaths; and slow down to reap the greatest benefits from the practice of getting outside. Nature provides us restoration and healing, but only if we let it.
Brooke and Ben McAlary, of the Slow Home Podcast, ran a personal experiment in March of 2018 where they challenged themselves to spend at least 60 minutes outside every day, for 30 days. The personal effects, the couple found, were remarkable.
“AS CHILDREN, WE MAKE IT A PRIORITY TO SPEND TIME OUTSIDE. NOW, WE SOMETIMES FIND THE ONLY TIME WE ALLOW OURSELVES TO BE OUTDOORS IS DURING A WALK TO CLASS.” Connecting with nature, holds great impact on our physical and mental health. When we breathe fresh air, our stressors are relieved, and our creativity and concentration escalates when returning to school or work. Nature tends to cultivate powerful emotions within the human psyche, but the most noteworthy manifests the feeling of ‘awe-struck’. We express this emotion when we approach the natural phenomenon around us with trust and curiosity. I am in awe when I see a group of my friends gathering around a bonfire. I feel this way when I reach the peak of a very challenging hike or come upon a body of water. While living in Kalu Yala, Panama, I was stricken with awe by simply walking across the grass, discovering a new plant, or hearing an unfamiliar bird call. By interacting with the gardens and food beds, I was better connected to my food origin and truly appreciated the nutrients it provided. In these situations, I can clearly identify reaching a more pleasant and thrilling human experience: a feeling of gratitude towards life. We must not underestimate the power of how even a condensed dose of outdoor air can lead to such positive change in our human experience. If you have fifteen minutes instead of an hour, use that time. The key in this,
SPRING 2019 | 15
THE INDIVIDUAL & SUSTAINABILITY By Gabby Blayden
WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR A HUMAN BEING TO LIVE SUSTAINABLY? If you have a television, phone, or computer, you’re probably bombarded with the constant dangers humans impose on the earth. According to a recent report by the World Economic Forum, it is estimated that Americans waste 40 percent of their food, and it has been proposed that there will be more plastic than fish in the ocean by the year 2050. Here, we have listed some ways that make the greatest impact in cultivating a sustainable lifestyle.
ON YOUR PLATE
IN YOUR FASHION
The most direct impact we can have on our planet is through the food we choose to put on our plate. Multiple studies have proven that the best diet for both your personal health and the health of the planet is to follow a whole-foods, plant-based diet. While it is not practical for most to entirely eliminate animal products from your typical eating habits, adopting more fruits, veggies and legumes into your regimen will have direct impacts on your physical energy, mental clarity, and more broadly speaking, the overall health of the environment as well.
With the speedy growth of fast-fashion empires, clothing is falling apart and being thrown away at unfathomable rates. The average American wastes 65 pounds of clothing a year, with each piece being worn an average of only seven times. Most of these wasted textiles are blends of synthetic plastic fibers, like polyester and nylon, which will never biodegrade. Producing new clothing pollutes our waterways and compromises the health of garment workers, who already work in dangerous conditions in exchange for pennies a day.
FOR TIPS TO MINIMIZE YOUR FOOTPRINT AND IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH, CONSIDER:
FOR TIPS TO SHRINK YOUR FASHION CONSUMPTION, WHILE ELEVATING YOUR STYLE, CONSIDER:
Eliminating meat, dairy and other animal products from your diet, even one day a week: According to the Environmental
Buying secondhand or vintage: Pre-loved clothes don’t need
Defense Fund, if every American ate a vegetarian diet for one day, we could save 100 billion gallons of water, 3 million acres of land, 1.5 billion pounds of crops, and 1.2 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions. Consider boosting your plant-based meal with filling foods like beans, mushrooms, rice or leafy greens. Work to add a few plantbased recipes to your Pinterest board, or opt for the veggie option the next time you dine out. Try to integrate as many colors as possible into your diet:
Vibrant, colorful, and intense hues make for the most nutrient-dense meals. Rich and full of life, every colorful plant added to your plate makes a difference. In fact, most foods of the same category share the same vitamins and minerals that are crucial to a well-balanced diet. Dark hued blue and purple foods, like blueberries, eggplant, and black beans, all provide excellent sources of vitamin C, potassium and antioxidants. These foods are known to improve immune system function, combating autoimmune diseases from developing, and has the power to prevents your complexion from aging as well. By integrating more plants in your diet, your energy levels will soon increase, therefore decreasing your caffeine intake. By adding each color of the rainbow to your diet, you make a conscious choice to support your own health as well as the health of our planet. With a plate so chock full of goodness, you won’t even notice you missed your multivitamin (again). Documentary Recommendations: For more information regarding
a sustainable diet, I encourage you to watch “What the Health” and “Forks Over Knives” on Netflix.
a bad wrap. Consider looking to Poshmark, Facebook Marketplace, consignment shops or vintage sellers to find the most unique pieces. By doing so, you make a conscious decision to save these garments from the waste stream. This is also the most affordable and sustainable option when looking to expand your wardrobe choices. Research your favorite brands: Fashion is the third most polluting
industry in the world and reportedly, one of the largest consumers of water. Does your favorite brand have a traceable supply chain or talk about sustainability in their core values as a company? Dissect what your favorite brands are doing behind the scenes and ask, “Who made my clothes?” Consider supporting brands that hold sustainable practices in their core values, like Everlane or Reformation. Reformation offers an in-depth description behind the carbon, water, and waste savings, reported for each product they sell. Additionally, the company runs a quarterly sustainability report, based in their belief that companies should be accountable for more than just profit lines and revenue.
Buy & declutter mindfully: Before you KonMari your entire
wardrobe or fall for the next greenwashing marketing tactic, consider the clothing you already have and adjust your wardrobe accordingly. Buy new pieces after careful consideration. Pass pieces you don’t love anymore onto a friend, or do a clothing swap where everyone benefits. When something rips, see how long you can go without buying a new one and, if you can, find it lightly-used second hand. Documentary Recommendations: For more information on curating
a sustainable wardrobe, watch “The True Cost” on Netflix.
SPRING 2019 | 17
SPRING CLEANING the power of your mind By Makenzie King
As spring approaches, the thoughts many individuals gravitate towards primarily includes the well-known concept of spring cleaning: “out with the old and in with the new”. While this theory works well in relieving clutter, society tends to overlook the benefits embedded in remodeling inner monologues. The power of the mind is more impactful in everyday life than it is perceived to be. Your thoughts are reflected in your words and actions. Therefore, when centered around negativity, the result poses lasting consequences. This spring, despite the societal buzz around purging your closet, I challenge you to spend time reflecting on your habits and consistent thinking, searching for the effect these tendencies have on your overall lifestyle. If you’re like me, and become motivated by way of inspirational quotes, here are 4 that will help guide your spring revamp of your mind.
“GROW THROUGH WHAT YOU GO THROUGH.” Everyone faces hardships in life, it is very normal. However, these obstacles have the potential to play a detrimental role in the psychological realm of your mind. This creates an unfortunate cycle of selfhate and can eventually be portrayed outwardly in your surrounding environment. So when you find yourself scared, angry, or hurting, look for the lesson it is trying to teach and carry it with you. Old ways will never open new doors. Be the person that accepts failures just as easily as successes. These moments should be viewed as an opportunity for growth, not a limitation of your ability. Take your broken pieces and use them to recreate your masterpiece.
“IF IT WILL NOT MATTER IN 5 YEARS, DO NOT SPEND MORE THAN FIVE MINUTES WORRYING ABOUT IT.” Our thoughts are organized and operated by priority. What consumes your mind, controls your life. Through this process, an abundance of our time is spent worrying about things that have already passed, or things that have yet to happen. Generally, these worries are casted so catastrophically, they become impairing. If what you are worrying over is not connected to your overall purpose in life, it is not worth your attention. When spring cleaning your mind, keep a mental note of your worries; if they serve no future objective, accept your emotions and move on.
“THE MOUTH SHOULD HAVE THREE GATEKEEPERS: IS IT TRUE? IS IT KIND? IS IT NECESSARY?” An individual seeking a positive life should never start a conversation before asking these questions. Without these gatekeepers, interaction is guided by negativity and the possibility of enrichment is significantly diminished. Similarly, if you speak untrue or hurtful words, your reputation will begin to reflect such. Your interpersonal relationships are key contributors to your wellbeing. Free yourself from error by analyzing the purpose of your words before you say them.
“FIND COMFORT IN THE CHAOS” On average, humans have anywhere from 50,000 to 80,000 thoughts per day. That’s an incredible amount! However, the problem most individuals face is their ability to become consumed by their own mind, perpetually trapped inside their thoughts. While this phenomenon is not physically inhibiting in any way, its capacity to rewire our emotions and feelings is astonishing, especially if these thoughts are centered around negativity. Individuals that choose to find peace amidst their mess will ultimately be much happier in the long run. Don’t allow your burdens to outshine your blessings. Make your faith stronger than your fears. Acknowledge your negative and consuming thoughts, but then find the strength to let them go. After all, when one door closes, another always opens.
SPRING 2019 | 19
POTLIG H
TATUM BRANDT turns BRANDT CREATIVE CO. Interview Led By Haley Bossart
“Hey there, I’m Tatum Brandt, award-winning graphic designer, brand strategist, professional hiking buddy, and owner of the web design firm, Brandt Creative Co. My passion is to help fitness and wellness entrepreneurs craft a beautiful, strategic online presence that allows them to reach their ideal audience and better serve their communities. I hail from the small town of Bowling Green, KY, where I grew up the oldest of three boys and learned to be bossy as hell and to sweet talk my way into, and out of, any situation. Homeschooled my entire life, I learned to be self-disciplined and fiercely independent, dedicating my free time to anything involving the arts. I danced, took fine arts classes, attempted musical theatre (which came to a fiery halt when I learned I sing like a dying sea lion), and fell in love with creating beautiful things.
“HOMESCHOOLED MY ENTIRE LIFE, I LEARNED TO BE SELF-DISCIPLINED AND FIERCELY INDEPENDENT, DEDICATING MY FREE TIME TO ANYTHING INVOLVING THE ARTS.” My life, like my name (no, I’m not named after Channing Tatum, sadly), has been far from normal, but beautiful nonetheless. I graduated from Western Kentucky University with a degree in Advertising and Graphic Design and a certificate in user experience design. Although I graduated early and with honors, I skipped classes to go on road trips with friends (I once took two weeks off to go to the grand canyon), eloped with my high school sweetheart in secret (that’s another story), and started a business. Now, I spend my time working with incredible boss ladies in the fitness and wellness industry to help them create a beautiful online presence. Through strategic branding and incredible web design and development, I help them identify and attract their ideal client so they can quit their 9-5 and make a true difference in their online community. I’ve had the incredible opportunity to work with 1st Phorm athlete Laura Novotny, life and business coach Megan Yelaney, wellness blogger Sarah Bridgeman, and so many other beautiful souls.” Intrigued? I was. Another interview with an incredible woman, Tatum Brandt. Tatum and I met through our favorite collaboration space, the Create & Cultivate Facebook page. A few months ago, I was looking for gals proficient in the world of web design and all things digital. I found Tatum and could not let her go. As our friendship
grows stronger, she and I both thrive professionally and personally. I hope you benefit from her words as much as I do.
“THERE HAS NEVER BEEN A BETTER TIME TO START A BUSINESS AS A FEMALE.” “There has never been a better time to start a business as a female. The conversation about women in business has shifted from one of wanting to shatter the glass ceiling to one of making a real impact on the business world. In an effort to break through, women in business have created a culture of community rather than competition. Rather than the traditional “dog eat dog world” that business has been known for, women have seen success in building each other up and setting their minds on abundance. It’s an incredible thing to be a part of. That being said, women-owned business still only account for 2% of businesses generating $1 million or more in revenue and struggle to get VC funding, even though statistics show that women operate businesses more efficiently and with less funding than their male counterparts. I hope to be a part of changing this trend.” “Every professor and mentor I had in college told me not to start freelancing straight out of school, and honestly, it’s excellent advice. Freelancing, or starting a business and hiring a team right out of school (or, in my case, while in school) is a huge risk. Working for another company, making connections, building a savings account, and learning the ropes prior to starting on your own is the wisest way to approach entrepreneurship. My life, however, has never fit the norms and part of being fiercely independent means I don’t listen to sage advice when I should. Through many sleepless nights, hours upon hours of research and podcasts, and a fiery passion for seeing my clients succeed led to making more money working part-time on my own than I would have at a junior designer position out of college. This, combined with the unbridled creative freedom I had by being my own art director led to my decision to launch my company, Brandt Creative Co. Yes, it was a risk, but as of February I was booked for over half the year and doubled my quarterly income goal. Lots of hard work is in my future, but I could not be more excited.” “The ability to make someone’s vision for themselves and their business reality is incredible. I get to be let into the dreaming and strategizing phases of starting a business, and there is really nothing like it. Building a brand is so much more than providing beautiful visuals for a business. For me, the process of building a brand involves holding my clients’ hands through the process of launching their dream and assuring them that yes, they really are capable of doing it. One incredible wellness blogger I work with started by texting me, “I’m terrified. What if I don’t have what it takes?” When we launched SPRING 2019 | 21
her brand she said she was in tears because she now looked like the professional she always dreamed of becoming. Another one of my clients, a life coach, told me that after we launched her brand and website she not only doubled her income but was able to successfully pivot in her business with ease. Moments like these are priceless. I am incredibly blessed to be let in on the building phases of dreams. The design industry can be fairly challenging. There are no rulebooks for freelance designers, and we all work differently. So many of my clients have been burned by terrible experiences with graphic designers they found online. In a world where really anyone can sell their services online, bad practices and terrible execution have unfortunately become the norm. Part of my job has become educating potential clients on exactly how my process works, what design entails, and that no, you cannot get quality creative work for a shoestring on a short timeline. I also think it’s important to stay fresh and original in every piece of creative work I produce, but when designing for clients in similar industries with similar tastes, this often becomes difficult. Staying on-trend while not copying the trends, and producing unique work that my clients love can be a hell of a juggling act. All of this being said, no good thing comes without challenges.”
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS If you could use 1-3 words to describe your brand, what would they be? People-focused, positivity-powered, results-driven. What are some of your goals for the future of Brand Creative Co.? Currently, my focus is on optimizing my client experiences so I can continue to change the reputation of design services for the better and better serve my community. One of my goals for the near future is to start providing template build outs for websites to help the larger demographic of people in the fitness and wellness industry who cannot yet afford custom design. I also am working on growing my team at Brandt Creative Co. so I can take on more clients and provide a wider range of services (like social media management!) If you were to celebrate a year from now a goal that you’ve achieved, what would that goal be? A business related goal I want to be celebrating is the growth of my team. I want to be able to build an incredible community here at Brandt Creative Co. and continue to make a positive impact on the wellness industry. A personal goal I’d love to celebrate a year from now is the completion of my first ultramarathon. I started running as a way to keep me inspired and get me into nature as I’m at my computer at all hours of the day. Now I’m signing up for races and setting bigger athletic goals as a way to keep me from burning out at work! I think having diversity in goals is so important. What makes you happy? Snow capped mountains, fresh coffee, and endless amounts of breakfast food. If you could portray to college students your greatest advice, what would you say to them? Say yes. Say yes to all of things and don’t be afraid of not playing by the rules. Some of my best moments in college were the times I skipped classes, bargained with professors for subbing classes I loved for those I hated, and a lot of sleepless nights working on my side hustle. Yes, you’ll fail sometimes, but there is so much more to your college years than an excellent GPA. Travel, make mistakes and ask for what you want. I finished my degree while starting a business AND while navigating a long-distance marriage. But NONE of that would have been possible if I had not asked for help, opportunities, and a lot of extra-credit from professors. A pro-tip: your professors actually want you to succeed and recognize passion and drive. If they see this in you they’ll let you get away with a lot in order for you to pursue your dreams.
What motivates you? There are a million people I can point to who motivate me on a daily basis. My true motivation, however, is rooted in a constant thankfulness for all that I have been given by God. When you recognize that your opportunities, skills, and even setbacks are all gifts, there comes a responsibility to utilize these well. Life is a messy, beautiful, choose-your-own-adventure. It’s so fun to realize that you really can work to accomplish bigger things than you think you’re capable of. And when you begin to work from a stance of service to your community, then all of a sudden your goals are so much bigger than you, and this is incredibly motivating. How do you define success? Truthfully, I’m still working on my definition of success. I used to say that it was simply achieving goals, but I’ve learned that often our goals are set either too small or on the wrong things. Right now, success to me is utilizing the gifts we’ve been given to better the world around us. What has been your most satisfying moment with Brand Creative Co.? My most satisfying moment at Brandt Creative Co. has been the texts, emails, and DM’s I receive from clients and followers saying that I’ve helped them achieve their dreams. I never realized how powerful quality creative work could be, but I have truly seen my clients’ dreams come true. Seeing my community succeed is the best feeling in the world. My following right now is small, but it’s an engaged community who continually builds me up.
Why should High Point University students or college students in general, look into your brand? I work to educate my community about the importance of our online presence. Resources, pro-tips, and research are all things I constantly give out for free to help entrepreneurs and those looking to build an audience succeed. Whether you’re looking to start your own business or blog, or simply looking for inspiration on how to better show up on your online platforms, the content I put out is for you. Today, more than ever, first impressions are everything. People form an opinion about you while scrolling on their phones, so it’s important to make sure you’re sending the right message. This is the essence of branding! How do you live an On Point life? What are your secrets? Living an On Point life is about intentionality. From daily goal-setting to strategizing about the content you share online, it’s so important to approach all of this with intention. I may be the messiest, most haphazard human there is, so I’m not here to tell you I journal every day or spend a perfect morning routine meditating and drinking greens. No, I simply make sure all that I do is aligned with the message I want to put into the world, whether this is a day spent hustling or a weekend spent resting. What are books or podcasts do you recommend for the On Point readers? So much of my success I can attribute to books and podcasts I’ve gotten my hands on! My favorites: The Goaldigger Podcast with Jenna Kutcher Present Over Perfect, a book by Shauna Neiquist The Rise Podcast with Rachel Hollis The Building a Story Brand Podcast What are some secret, every day rituals you have, that create your beautiful aura? Daily moments spent in gratitude, looking at where I’ve been and where I’m going is so important. We so often forget to celebrate small successes, and these are critical to motivating you for future growth! I also exercise, like, a lot. I think physical health is directly related to mental and spiritual health. Whether I’m training for a marathon, lifting more than my bodyweight, or simply hiking with my hubby, these active moments all keep me centered. Where can we find you online? I’m everywhere @brandtcreativeco - Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and yes, even LinkedIn. I’m most active and engaged on Instagram, so come watch a story and comment on a post!
SPRING 2019 | 23
HEALTH & FITNESS
S
HOW TO DITCH THE GYM
By Gina Figliozzi
& N OT F E E L G U I LTY A B O UT I T Exercise. We know it’s an essential. We know it’s good for us. Something we can all relate to is finding the motivation to work out, especially following those long days of hard work. Exercise should be self-empowering: it shouldn’t feel like a chore; but it doesn’t change the fact that big energy expenditures like working out, sometimes seem like a difficult mission to prioritize.
During your free time, step outside and go on a walk.
The hopeful idea is that we find time within our day-to-day routine to put on our leggings and workout tank, take a step into the gym, and make tangible steps towards our personal fitness goals we adhere to. It almost sounds like a dream, but for the busy college student, it’s not always as easy as we make it out to be in our planner.
Walking is so beneficial to our bodies: this method of exercise gets our blood flowing, loosens our muscles, releases endorphins, and promotes creativity. Walking at a faster than leisure pace provides similar benefits to running, without all the stress on your joints. Go outside, ditch the screen, and enjoy all that nature has to offer!
Sometimes we just don’t have the time, the energy, or the willpower to get ourselves to the gym. Although rest days are important for recovery and results, it is equally important to stay active on the days not alloted for your muscle rebound. Instead, try to find alternatives that maintain your activity throughout the day.
You can do it, and your body will thank you. Need a break? If you are sitting at a desk for long periods of time and have accessible stairs in your building, take ten minutes and answer a text, call a friend; just make sure you’re going up and down a few flights in the process.
The gym shouldn’t be the only place we consider an opportunity to exercise our bodies. There are many ways we can incorporate some element of exercise, that isn’t as daunting, into our daily routines: And not to mention, without all the sweat, soul searching, and commitment that the gym sometimes requires.
HERE ARE SOME TIPS AND TRICKS TO HELP YOU GET & STAY IN TIP-TOP SHAPE:
Take the Stairs.
Do Your Squats. Do your squats in the bathroom. Weird. But, it works. Aim to do about 15. Practice Meditation and Yoga. Yoga tones muscle and develops your strength, as it is hard to hold those poses! You will also reap the health benefits of resolved stress, leaving you with a sense of peace in your life.
SPRING 2019 | 25
HOW TO DITCH THE DIET
& FOSTER LIFELONG HABITS INSTEAD By Gina Figliozzi Fad diets are a trend right now. Popular eating regimens of the the moment may include some you’re familiar with, such as, Paleo, Keto, or Atkins. Although these diets may work for some, more commonly than not, they aren’t the best options for the majority of people trying to reach their fitness goals. The problem? They are restrictive dieting. Eating should not be an unhealthy relationship formed by the mindset of, “I can’t eat this because …”. Instead, eating should embrace all of the food around us. Eating should be a practice and experience that we enjoy. This isn’t to say that a diet of junk food would suffice, but the concept of moderation does enforce that you’re allowed to indulge on occasion! There is truth behind the notion that everything is okay in moderation; it is defining what moderation actually is, in principle, that is the problem. Aim for the 80/20 lifestyle. Eat nutritious foods 80% of the time (or about 17 out of a weekly 21 meals) and save 4 meals per week for the foods you’re really craving, that your body doesn’t exactly benefit from nutritionally. To ease into this sustainable lifestyle, try making some healthy swaps! Providing the same satiety with the extra nutrients, these swaps will make living a hearty lifestyle much easier: allowing you to ditch the diet and help you cultivate a healthy relationship with food.
MAKE THE SWITCH Commonplace Peanut Butters → All Natural Nut Butters
Instead of Skippy, Jif, or Peter Pan Peanut Butters, try, all natural nut butters such as Crazy Richard’s, Smucker’s All Natural, or Justin’s. Without all of the extra oil and sugar, these peanut butters are made purely from nuts and a touch of salt. It will be an adjustment, and you will miss that sweet taste of the ladder, but I promise you: eventually the old stuff will taste processed and the all natural options will be satisfying and savory. Mayonnaise → Avocado
Avocados provide the same binding creaminess that mayo serves. It has a very submissive taste and blends well with other foods by not overpowering the surrounding flavors. Plus, you get the heart healthy fats commonly found in salmon and nuts. Salad Dressing → Olive Oil and Vinegar
Slash the unhealthy fats and high sodium intake with this trick. Gain the heart, skin, and hair benefits that this combo packs. This concoction is easy to make, and can be accomplished by mixing a 1:1 ratio: a tablespoon of olive oil and likewise of vinegar. You can add a dash of salt for added taste as well.
SPRING 2019 | 27
THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO HOMEMADE SKINCARE diy face masks By Cydney Webb
Investing in new skincare doesn’t always have to mean spending copious amounts at your nearest Sephora. Many effective and budget-friendly ingredients that will clear, smooth, and penetrate your pores with nutrients can be found right in your kitchen. Mixing certain ingredients together to create DIY face masks is a quick and easy way to find solutions for your immediate skin concerns. Below are the simple homemade recipes you need for pampering your skin type.
READ OUR DO-IT-YOURSELF FACE MASK RECIPES BASED UPON YOUR SKIN TYPE BELOW: Dry & Tight → Avocado and Olive Oil
Sensitive → Cocoa Powder & Yogurt
1. Mash 2 tablespoons of ripe avocado in a bowl
1. Mix together 2 tablespoons of plain yogurt and 1 tablespoon of honey*
2. Add in 1 teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon of honey*, and 1 teaspoon of plain yogurt to the mashed avocado mixture 3. Apply to face for 15 minutes, then rinse
2. Add in 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder 3. Apply to face for 10 minutes, then rinse
Benefits: Avocado and olive oil contain omega fatty acids and Vitamin E which seal dry, cracked skin. Yogurt and honey plump and soothe.
Benefits: Cocoa Powder is rich in antioxidants that soothe the skin and deliver a brightening effect. The yogurt assists in decreasing inflammation, while also offering skin-calming probiotics.
Oily → Tomato and Honey
Normal → Green Tea and Coconut Oil
1. Mix together 1 tablespoon of tomato pulp and 1 tablespoon of honey*
1. Mix together 1 teaspoon of coconut oil, 2 tablespoons of honey*, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of leaves from a green tea bag
2. Apply to the face for 15 minutes, then rinse Benefits: Tomato is a natural astringent, which helps remove excess oil from the skin and is known to deeply cleanse. The honey works as an antibacterial agent that also provides nourishment by locking in moisture from the air. Oily skin still needs hydration: if you strip your skin dry, your body will respond by producing more oil.
2.Use a whisk and ensure that the coconut oil is not separating from the mixture 3. Apply to face for 10 minutes, then rinse Benefits: Green tea and coconut oil contain numerous antioxidants which protect skin from bacterial damage. Both will leave radiant and glowing skin, working as exfoliators to remove dead skin cells.
*Note: Honey should always be raw and unfiltered or use manuka honey for best results. SPRING 2019 | 29
ORGANIC BURST
By Cydney Webb
Superfood (n): a nutrient-rich food considered to be especially beneficial for health and well-being. For over a year now, I have discovered the power of superfoods and the detoxifying benefits they’ve had on my skin and overall health. I first stumbled upon the superfood brand, Organic Burst, by way of Instagram, where I found health bloggers and celebrities promoting the supplements. They described how the product fit seamlessly into their daily routines. After ordering my first batch of chlorella and acai, I began ingesting the different foods daily and quickly became hooked.
Founded in 2011, Organic Burst is a brand that has been transforming people’s health through the harvesting of superfoods in their purest form. Not only does Organic Burst better the lives of their customers, or “Bursters”, but they describe their business as a social enterprise: this sets them apart from other superfood brands that you may see in your local health store. Being a social enterprise, their products are sourced directly from small-scale harvesters across the globe and their profits are reinvested to bring income to the organic farmers and communities where the products grow. Organic Burst cultivates their supplements through sustainable processes that not only preserve farmland, but the maximum amount of nutrients within each superfood as well. Unlike other brands which may harvest using chemicals or heat drying methods, Organic Burst’s products are raw and easily absorbed by the body- delivering real, organically-certified health benefits, with no additives. Conventional superfoods are known for their powder form with the intention to be added to recipes such as smoothies or energy balls. However, Organic Burst provides the option of a tablet form as well, making it easy and convenient to get your ‘superfood fix’ whenever and wherever you go. Coupled with exercise and a healthy lifestyle, superfoods nourish your body and give you a boost from within, contributing to the way you feel and the outward appearance of your skin.
Here’s a few of my favorite supplements and their corresponding benefits:
WHEATGRASS Wheatgrass’ main ingredient is chlorophyll, which promotes better blood circulation within the body resulting in more energy and rejuvenation at a cellular level. It is an extreme detoxifier and alkalizing agent, flushing impurities from your system and combating the over-acidity that can occur from consuming drinks such as coffee or alcohol. It contains almost every earth mineral and is rich in vitamin A, which is known for healthy skin cell production and repair. This superfood comes from the sprouted leaves of baby wheat plants. Organic Burst sources their ingredients from New Zealand, in this context.
CHLORELLA This was the first superfood I began incorporating into my daily health routine about a year ago. Chlorella gives my skin a subtle glow and has helped prevent breakouts from emerging- which was a problem I experienced before discovering the product. It is high in vitamins B2, B3, and biotin, with B vitamins helping skin retain moisture, leading to a softer, smoother appearance. Chlorella also works in supporting the detoxification processes of the liver, kidneys, and gallbladder. This detoxification removes heavy metals from the body to help prevent breakouts, improve digestion, and decrease tiredness and fog. Organic Burst sources this green algae from the Tawu mountains in Taiwan.
ACAI Acai is the berry known for boosting your favorite smoothie bowls with its high concentration of powerful antioxidants. The antioxidants in acai help fight against free radicals that enter your body through things such as polluted city air, pesticides, alcohol, tobacco smoke, and fried foods. A build-up of free radicals in the body can cause cellular damage and lead to deterioration, or disease. Containing the antioxidant Vitamin E, acai helps repair skin from free radicals and UV damage to keep your complexion appearing young and smooth. Organic Burst’s ingredients are sourced from the Brazilian State of Para, harvested from the palm trees of the Amazon Rainforest. To view these superfoods and more, visit www.organicburst.com.
SUPERFOODS FOR SUPERSKIN SPRING 2019 | 31
SPRING 2019 | 33
THE ELEMENT nature meets couture By Chris Coscia
MARC JACOBS
Maison Margiela
AIR.
E ARTH.
Birds of a feather, flock together! Feathering has been a staple accent in several looks of the moment, with evidence clear in fashion week coverage from Paris to New York. This season, we see the rebirth of a trend vibrating throughout the industry. Exotic colored feathers will be used to accessorize many new garments this Spring, providing a whimsical look to any outfit. But before the idea of ostentatious feathering floods your vision, understand that designers that have started incorporating feathers in their inspiration are doing so tastefully. They have been seen as a focal point, avoiding any notion of an overdone costume.
Spring fashion is most notably a time in the industry bringing vibrant florals and colorful pastels, but 2019 takes on a reimagned look.
The idea of movement is an essential element in fashion: it instills life in a piece of clothing. This tactic provides a garment with the ability to flow and move, simultaneously adding a layer of intense dimension to design. I foresee feathers flying into fashion this coming spring, and blown from designer to mainstream retail before we know it: stay tuned!
Solidifying the continued relevance of monochromatic neutrals, fashion enthusiasts can expect to see more outfitting and color stories reflecting this hot trend. The sense of simplicity and minimalism will offer balance through garments from all categories, while offering a variance of textures and fabrications, bringing you a mix of different design elements when styling. Mixing neutrals from different textile families creates a very layered and complex look. 2019 is going to set a new standard for spring trend, and one we look forward to embrace. Spring fashion is evolving; becoming more sleek and modern.
TS OF SPRING
Jacquemus
Altuzarra
FIRE.
WATER.
Golden Hour might last longer than we expected- a color that’s taking the runway by storm is none other than GOLD!
For the fresh catch of the day comes a trend from the great sea!
For years, designers have experimented with gold, mostly attributing to unsuccessful attempts. In the past, the overuse of gold in garment design has lead to a gaudy aesthetic, but with this more refined take on the trend, there is hope. This spring, gold has been executed with a higher level of taste. With a deeper shade featured in a variety of runway collections this season, this trend will surely catch wind as the temperatures begin to rise. This fiery shade of gold will allow fashion enthusiasts an opportunity to emulate a statement in any garment or accessory. It’s bold, loud, and a hue that brings the heat to spring styling.
New forms of macrame, crochet, and netting will all be major moments for spring fashion this season. These fabric trends, originating in the 1970s, are evolving to fit a more modern silhouette in response to the industry today. Many designers are implementing this idea of netting by creating garments with tasteful dimension. There have been cases of embellished netting as well, cultivating a nautical and lively aesthetic. For this trend, clothing is just a stepping stone. Look out for these fabrication features and overlays on handbags, shoes, and other accessories. These unique pieces are sure to be hot in demand this spring. Only time can tell if this trend will transition to fall fashion or be washed out to sea.
SPRING 2019 | 35
Down Earth
to
By Rachael Rice
Alex Rossi, a senior at High Point University,
majoring in Strategic Communication, is depicted above channeling her free spirit demeanor. Alex is seen wearing an All Saints Papin Leather Biker Jacket, mixing texture with the beaded tank dress she wears beneath, by Free People. She couples the outfit with the timeless Gucci mules, integrating the gold decoration from her dress to the leather components evident in the jacket. Proving the versatility and transitional qualities of the outfit, Alex is prepared for a day-to-night function and suited for most spring temperatures. Alex Rossi was styled by our Production Manager, Lucia Zelaya, and photographed by Mackenzie Williams. SPRING 2019 | 37
Barron Chavez (to left), a senior at High
Point University majoring in Business Administration is depicted sporting a piece from the new Madewell Men’s line, integrating warm hardware into the design by way of copper buttoning. A pair of straight J. Crew khakis were coupled with the denim jacket to solidify an earth-tone palette.
John Feeney (to right), a junior at High
Point University majoring in Biology, is depicted wearing J. Crew from head-to-toe, featuring a hot trend of the moment, embroidered writing on his cotton tee-shirt. Barron Chavez and John Feeney were styled by Lucia Zelaya and photographed by Mackenzie Williams.
Genevieve Koumentakos, a junior at High
Point University majoring in Business Administration is depicted wearing the Palermo Set in white by Free People. To transition the outfit from day-to-night as temperatures change, Genna is seen coupling the outfit with a denim studded jacket by Free People, as well. Photo by Mackenzie Williams. SPRING 2019 | 39
Harrison Wujek (to left),
a sophomore at High Point University majoring in Marketing, is seen wearing an embroidered graphic tee-shirt by Urban Outfitters coupled with AG denim. Photo by Ariana Baio.
McKenzie Jenkins, a sophomore at High Point University majoring in Business Administration, is depicted wearing a classic white button-down by Polo Ralph Lauren and light wash Levi’s denim in spirit of the spring season. Mack is a well-recognized music artist among the High Point community. Mack was featured as the opening talent for the Spring 2018 Concert, proceeding T-Pain’s performance. Photo by Logan Cox.
SPRING 2019 | 41
SPRING 2019 | 43
T R A V E L
ZEITGEIST WOMAN
By Haley Bossart
HELLO, WONDERFUL Fashion today is growing at rapid pace. Designers release nearly five collections per year with fashion weeks occurring several weeks throughout the fall and spring months. Although the fashion industry strikes itself as constantly moving, Livia Quaresmini of Hello, Wonderful emulates her underlying mission in our fast-paced world: every woman can be wonderful. I personally know Livia as one of my many inspiring professors at Lorenzo de’ Medici while studying abroad in Florence, Italy. Livia is driven, creative, and wonderful. I was lucky enough to learn more about her aura as well as her fashion line, Hello, Wonderful! Livia’s love for fashion started from childhood. She originates from the city Brescia in the north of Italy. She always had ‘a passion for fashion’. She was interested in colors, fabrics and enjoyed the illustration component of designing. Growing up, she developed this passion into a job and a mission. She continued her introduction with the following:
“FASHION IS A RARE OPPORTUNITY TO EXPRESS OUR TRUE SELF, WITH NEITHER LIMITATIONS NOR RESTRICTIONS.”
“Contemporary designers’ mission is to be beneficial to people’s lives. So it is mine. You do not create just to satisfy your ego, but to help people. In my case to make woman able to feel wonderful and effortless. I believe that a contemporary garment should be both transitional and adaptive, in order to be the best ally of the everyday busy life of women.”
LIVIA WAS INSPIRED TO CREATE HELLO, WONDERFUL BECAUSE, “I felt the urge to share with other women my point of view in fashion. I actually have worked for other brands, but none of the designers I’ve been collaborating with had the mission to make women able to feel wonderful. The world doesn’t end with a size 0 and a 20 year old supermodel. This is an easy shortcut. As designers, we must take into consideration that “beauty” is global, which means we must appreciate all human bodies, all skin colors and all the imperfections that define us as unique. We must celebrate the diversity that the world offers to us and make the most of it.” Livia is hoping to expand the brand, including merchandise accommodating skin-care. She wants to incorporate more organic fabrics and a knitwear collection, featuring organic yarns. She wishes for, “Hello, Wonderful to become a state of mind, a lifestyle, rather than just simply a brand.” She works to help women remain confident in their body and hopes to one day rid the brand of conventional sizing and create a size chart of her own.
“Fashion is a rare opportunity to express our true self, with neither limitations nor restrictions. I firmly believe in that. I love to think, as a designer, that I am here to make people able to communicate their identities, to feel confident, to be bold and sophisticated through the garments I create. In order to do that, I started my own brand in 2016 with one mission: make you feel wonderful!” Livia states that all of her designs are, “a result of a combination of the observation of contemporary influences and strong personal taste.” She designs for the, “zeitgeisty women.” Livia emulates The Zeitgeisty Woman. I wanted to know more about Livia’s work as a female entrepreneur and business expert. She loves being able to set her own goals and mission. Creativity is endless. On the fashion side, she says,
SPRING 2019 | 45
LIVIA IS SO PASSIONATE ABOUT THE WORLD. TO ELABORATE, HERE ARE A FEW QUESTIONS I ASKED HER: What is your spirit animal? White lioness. Lioness because I feel powerful and maternal, always caring about others. And white because white is the color of a blank canvas, the perfect tool to express your creativity. What makes you happy? Teaching. It amazes me to see what students are able to develop with the tools you give them. It fulfills me. If you could portray to college students your greatest advice, what would you say to them? Enjoy your years at college and try to make the most out of them. Have fun, travel, get in touch with people. Live your life and express your creativity at best. What motivates you? An innate sense of bettering myself. How do you define success? A healthy state of mind. What has been your most satisfying moment with Hello, Wonderful? In general, when customers want to keep in touch with me. They become friends, not just customers. They choose you, because you care about them. Why should High Point University students or college students in general, look into your brand? Students should look for my two brand’s values. The brand is eco-friendly, since I just use deadstock fabrics in order not to leave my footprint on our planet. I try to save the leftover of the industry, giving fabrics a new life. Hello, Wonderful is a state of mind and I’d like to think that my products can be beneficial in increasing people’s quality of life. In my case, women’s self-esteem.
How do you live an On Point life? What are your secrets? I always try to find the balance between work, family time, and friends. It is tough, since I have two jobs, but I’m lucky since I have a family that supports me. So my secret is surrounding myself with people that strongly believe in me. What are some secret, every day rituals you have, that creates your aura? Choosing with care, my outfit. It is the best act of self-love. What are your suggestions for students interested in the fashion industry who are unable to study abroad? Where can they find cultural influence? The Internet is a vast world and it’s beneficial to you, because you have everything at your fingertips. Sometimes, it is also beneficial to raise your nose from your phone and take a look around you. Live your life with your head up and you’ll find the inspiration you are searching for. Where can we find you online? www.shophellowonderful.com and @shophellowonderful on Instagram and Facebook.
SPRING 2019 | 47
CAMPUS COMMUNITY
EARTH MIND BODY
AN INTERVIEW WITH GERRI MCNEER, HIGH POINT UNIVERSITY’S YOGA INSTRUCTOR By Brianna Scordato Our bodies are living, breathing creatures… just like our planet. Together, we interact with the soil beneath our feet and, if humanity wants Mother Nature to continue giving us beautiful sunsets, then we must think more consciously about the products we consume, the garments we wear, and the amount we waste. For Gerri McNeer, a sustainable lifestyle is part of her mission. Gerri strives to avoid single-use products, embracing her role as a global citizen. Holding a hopeful purpose, she seeks to protect our rapidly depleting ecosystems through these seemingly small steps towards sustainable practices. As High Point University’s yoga guru, Gerri sews together her passions of teaching, holistic living, and conscious views of the world by encouraging young people to exhibit gratitude for their bodies and blessings. She chooses to cultivate these passions through the practice of yoga. We have the power to do great things in life, but the generations to follow may not experience the same beauty as we see it today. In our interview below, Gerri shares an inspiring message: stay tuned!
THE DEBILITATING ANXIETIES, STRESSES, AND GENERAL WORRY YOUNG PEOPLE CARRY WITH THEM WERE ALL OBSTACLES SHE FELT YOGA HAD THE POWER TO HEAL. I approached Gerri out of curiosity. I wondered how university students could emulate mindfulness, in aspects of both personal and environmental well-being. “Living as gently as we can is all we can strive for,” she said, “living both gently on the earth and on our bodies.” Gerri began embracing the practice of yoga after a lifting and running injury impacting her back. She soon learned as a personal trainer that the continuous and heavy impact workouts she loved were hurting her body. In turn, Gerri was recommended to seek an alternate practice, what was referred to as a “stretching class”. At the time, “yoga” wasn’t as prevalent as we know it today. This Eastern practice carried skepticism, was difficult to find, and generally considered an intimidating concept to the majority. A few years into the practice, the stereotypes began
melting away, and her own clients we’re interested in trying “this new flowy stretchy thing,” as she most eloquently phrased. Gerri’s decision to make yoga an accessible practice to college students was a no-brainer. The debilitating anxieties, stresses, and general worry young people carry with them were all obstacles she felt yoga had the power to heal. Acknowledging the high demand, Gerri sought to change the way college students viewed their health: hoping to encourage young people that their personal well-being was a sentiment of top priority. Moving forward, she completed three 200 hour and one 500 hour Yoga Teacher Training workshops. Gerri found a positive life practice that has met her athletic match and an opportunity to give back to the those around her.
GERRI SEWS TOGETHER HER PASSIONS OF TEACHING, HOLISTIC LIVING, AND CONSCIOUS VIEWS OF THE WORLD BY ENCOURAGING YOUNG PEOPLE TO EXHIBIT GRATITUDE FOR THEIR BODIES AND BLESSINGS. Gerri says that anyone can benefit from practicing yoga. In most cases, yoga can prevent sports-related injuries and protect us from the general aches and pains we experience on a day-to-day basis. Most regular practitioners would argue that yoga brings them an hour of mindful movement, lowering cortisol levels and perceived stress levels. For Gerri, a challenging yoga class is a way to lose herself in the flow for a moment. “Following the instructors voice instead of what’s going on in my head is a delicious respite from the world around me. It’s a moving meditation. There are so many different benefits, each person will experience something similar, but different all at once. Just like we are, similar but different.” Gerri seamlessly incorporates earth conscious teachings into each of her yoga classes. Sustainability: a thirteen-letter word that we hear thrown around, often in a light manner, but in truth, sustainability is
SPRING 2019 | 49
an imperative practice in maintaining the world around us. We each have a moral duty to educate ourselves on the topic, and assist others to know and understand better the strength it has on our greater planet. You may be one person, but our role still plays a significant impact overtime. At home, the McNeer family does not use paper products. Napkins and dish towels are sewn from fabric, and most of her clothing are items she purchased while thrifting. Plastic is another resource almost non-existent in the McNeer home. By 2050, there will be more plastic bottles in the ocean than fish. Gerri incorporates this value into her teaching method, requiring students to only bring reusable water bottles for their practice. Gerri brought to my attention that we are slowly and willingly killing ourselves with our plastic usage. “It never goes away,” she says, “It’s in us, in the food we eat, in the air we breathe. It’s in our products...” which is a good segue into how Gerri concocts her own cleaning solutions.
GERRI’S FOOD IS EITHER SELF-GROWN OR FROM LOCAL FARMERS, ENSURING THAT HER GROCERIES ARE ORGANIC AND LOCAL WITHIN A 100-MILE RADIUS: REDUCING HER CARBON FOOTPRINT. Gerri has been formulating and remixing her families cosmetic products for years. She uses tooth powder, hair rinses, homemade soaps for both her laundry and dishes, and only uses a tumble dryer when necessary. Gerri uses glass exclusively for food storage and has eliminated all traces of aluminum foil and plastic wrap from her pantry. A difficult practice to unlearn, but has transitioned to using homemade beeswax cloth as food wrap instead. The McNeers utilize reusable cloth bags, glass mason jars for drinking, and metal straws for sipping. Gerri’s
food is either self-grown or from local farmers, ensuring that her groceries are organic and local within a 100-mile radius to reduce her carbon footprint. Gerri noted that this may seem like a lot of work to someone who hasn’t started practicing a more sustainable routine yet. This lifestyle becomes easy once you consciously develop these habits. You’re training your mind, just like you’d train your body. And once you’ve taken steps towards a more sustainable lifestyle, you’ll look for other ways to minimize your footprint. For instance, to prevent and cure illnesses Gerri makes all of her culinary and medicinal herbs. Growing your own medicine is the best way to avoid antibiotics, which are losing efficacy as we speak. Elderberry syrup and Echinacea tincture are her two favorites she uses the most. These ingredients are effective natural medicines to improve with cold symptoms, a flu diagnosis, skin health, and inflammation.
GROWING YOUR OWN MEDICINE IS THE BEST WAY TO AVOID ANTIBIOTICS, WHICH ARE LOSING EFFICACY AS WE SPEAK. I asked Gerri how university students can be more mindful, and her response was: “It is a choice: we decide what isn’t working for us. It takes conscious thought...I want to change my life, world, space, or relationships … so take inventory of what actions and behaviors are taking place and eliminate the ones that do not accomplish the results you need to thrive.” Creating new routines is something that can be life changing and stepping away from the screen is the best place to start. Leave a few minutes early for an opportunity to enjoy a sunny day, as opposed to the typical morning sprint to make it to class on time. Touch something in nature with your hands, and do so with intention. Feel the vibrational frequency of the Earth to help you re-calibrate. Take three minutes for a counted breathing exercise, and make this practice a priority. As a morning kick start, set the clocks in the house two minutes ahead. Although a sly trick, it helps Gerri feel less rushed and move with purpose. Gerri’s final tip: think of one thing to be grateful for every day. We’re sometimes trapped in thinking that we need to look for gratitude in some grand gesture or resource: remember that it doesn’t matter what you’re grateful for, as long as you take a moment of reflection for your blessings.
GERRI HAS LEARNED TO SLOW DOWN, APPRECIATE NATURE WITH INTENTION, AND HELP OTHERS DISCOVER THEIR OWN PINNACLE OF JOY, JUST AS SHE HAS FOUND HERS. This mindful lifestyle has provided Gerri with the opportunity to become more aware of the world around her. She has found more value for the quality of life she can offer others, as well. “The best gift to self is service to others,” she says. Since practicing yoga, Gerri has learned to slow down, appreciate nature with intention, and help others discover their own pinnacle of joy, just as she has found hers.
SPRING 2019 | 51
FE ATURED ARTISTS
Laura Locci
Hannah Greene
D
BEACH • SLEEP • EVERY THING UNDERNEATH
SPRING 2019 | 53
On Point PUBLISHER & CEO | HALEY BOSSART EDITOR-IN-CHEIF | RACHAEL RICE CREATIVE DIRECTOR | GRETCHEN SOUSA
Magazine