Why Do Some Aging Women Feel Invisible

by Sonia Lovett | Jun 20, 2018 | Lifestyle

Approximately 10 months ago I was taking my first foray into a Facebook and I found a group.

Forever Fierce, The Midlife Revolution. I got in touch with its founder Catherine Grace O’Connell and started on a journey that I could never have guessed would lead me to 24 hours in LA. Catherine was helpful personable and charming. Little did I know that she is so busy that taking the time to talk to me seems now to be miraculous.

I joined the Facebook Group and started connecting with women mainly through my Instagram account, Stylebeyondage. We “like” each other’s pictures and leave each other notes, we read each other’s Facebook posts and share our hurdles and successes. I was driving to LA to see my daughter, creative director and muse. Since I’m her mother, I’ll include a shameless plug to her swimwear line, Evoke Serena. And it occurred to me, why don’t we reach out to see if any of these ladies would meet us.

What I found was a great gift.

My first meeting was at a Kundalini Yoga class Serena was teaching and plant-based cooking lesson held in Burbank.

My first meeting was at a Kundalini Yoga class Serena was teaching. I invited Angie Weils, (IG: @theAgelessRebellion) to meet me there. After chanting and breathing routines, we had a wonderful meeting over vegan lunch. We talked about health, children and why women of our age in this culture say they feel invisible. Angie is whimsical, playful and seriously devoted to communicating her own brand of joy. She’s a very smart lady with a lot to say.

Angie has written an interactive and playful planner which she calls a journey into agelessness. A flashlight to your soul, link to your spirit, and a badass coach for your mind and fab fit body. It’s available on Amazon.

My second meeting was with Wendy Packer

We met at Neiman Marcus (stomping grounds for her) and her mother before her. She has a huge following on Facebook, Instagram, and her blog. Why? Because she is an astute businesswoman, mother of two young men, and a hard-working innovator. Case in point her work with Palm Springs Fashion Week among many other endeavors. Follow her on @fashionoverfifty.wendy to learn more.

We had a great discussion about reinventing ourselves in the age of social media, keeping our identity in the face of obstacles, and yes – why do women of our age sometimes say they feel invisible. I hope you’ll comment and share your experience or your opinion with us.

My third meeting was with Julie Liams, pictured at the top

We met at Chado Tea House inside the iconic Dolby theater complex in Los Angeles. Beautiful and charming. Down to earth and funny. Julie has managed to work in Hollywood for over 25 years . She has a wonderful husband, three children and a great life attitude. And again, the topic comes up: Why do you think some women in our culture are feeling invisible after a certain age. And again, I ask that you comment, and share any feeling or experiences you have on the topic of invisibility.

Be sure to follow Julie on Instagram, and subscribe to her blog.

In the end, the answer to that question turned out to be remarkably simple and found in our social media feeds. American culture honors youth above all. Other cultures honor age and experience. Here, Women are marketed to by youth and beauty. There, they are honored and revered as matriarchs.

Luckily, we have some prime examples on how to age youthfully. My personal muse is Dorrie, an 83 year young former Playboy Bunny turned fashion blogger. Check her out on IG @seniorstylebible and on her blog Senior Style Bible.

My question for you is this: How do We, as a society, adapt ourselves in a youth driven culture? I’d love to here your thoughts

Crystal Singing Bowls and Meditative Sound Healing

by Sonia Lovett | Jun 13, 2018 | Wellness

Using Sound Meditation to Aide Your Body’s Ability to Heal Itself

The Goal of Crystal Bowl sound meditation is to reduce stress and pain, promote deep relaxation, develop self-awareness, improve learning, and clarify personal values.

All in the Universe is made up of vibration. In a relaxed state the human body, including our brain waves, vibrate at a fundamental frequency of about 8 cycles per second. This allows us to be attuned to the basic electromagnetic field of the Earth itself—the Divine Vibration.

Our bodies are genetically pre-programmed to be self-healing instruments given a supportive environment and lifestyle. When the vibration of one body part is in harmony with the rest of the body and with the Divine Vibration each body part will be healthy. The body can heal itself in a state of deep relaxation. Sound and music are some of the easiest ways to evoke the relaxation response.

Sound can promote healing or dis-ease depending on the quality of vibration. The vibrations we surround ourselves with reach us where words and hands cannot.

To learn more about the relation between chakra’s and the endocrine system, click here.

Sound affects our organs, tissues, cells, and DNA. Sound vibrations can produce changes in the autonomic, immune, endocrine and neuropeptide systems.

One of the main properties of quartz crystal is to amplify. Crystal can also store, amplify, transfer, and transmute energy. Combining these properties with the Divine Blueprint vibrations they produce, Crystal Singing Bowls generate sound that restores the correct harmonic patterns for health.

I discovered the power of sound in 2013 while healing from a major health crisis. I acquired and began playing my set of Crystal Singing Bowls for public and private groups in 2015. Seven of my twelve bowl set are tuned to the major body/chakra systems. Five bowls are tuned to the major endocrine systems of the body. Each bowl, when toned, can affect body areas associated with it.

My intention at all of my Crystal Bowl Meditations is to provide a relaxing experience to support the intention you come with for your own healing. I provide sessions for groups and individuals with a general or specific focus. Crystal Bowl sessions are great for all ages, environments and animals! For more information about Crystal Bowl Meditation contact me at kathymartin7314@gmail.com or 402.253.5027.

Love and Blessings,

Kathy

Travel: Puerto Vallarta

by Sonia Lovett | Jun 10, 2018 | Travel

Puerta Vallarta and all it it’s hidden treasures!

For us, taking an all girls family trip does not take much planning since it’s just the three of us. My sister, daughter and I. This time we chose a close destination for all of us, Puerto Vallarta and two of our favorite off the beaten path side trips; Yelapa and Sayulita.

Garza Blanca Preserve, Puerto Vallarta

As a citizen of the world, I’ve never been a tourist. As a matter of fact, I try to avoid them at all costs! So when we go to Puerto Vallarta we avoid the north part of the coastline and stay on the southern coast where there are no cruise ships or “trendy” bars. We liked that Garza Blanca was a family friendly luxury beach resort. The property offers all inclusive hotel packages as well as room only hotel rates (which is the route we went). The waters were warm and protected and the sand was bright white! We learned to paddle board in the calm bay, participated in a Strawberry Full Moon ritual on the beach and practiced Kundalini Yoga in the trees! Garza Blanca has all of the amenities that you family and friends would need without leaving the comfort of the Resort.

Hotel Mousai, Puerto Vallarta

Affiliated with the Garza Blanca Preserve (and just up the hill) is the super hip and visually stunning Hotel Mousai. We did not stay here this time (but will next time for sure!) but did take them up on their amenities including a 5-Star sushi dinner and roof top infinity pool that overlooks the bay. The hotel screams exclusive and high end. A must see, a must eat, a must stay (and swim) for sure!

Hotel Lagunitas, Playa Yelapa

Years ago I found a beautiful, at that time almost uninhabited, cove called Yelapa. I almost hesitate to mention it since it was such a quite place far from the tourists. Alas, now the day boats come and go regularly. To my surprise though, it still remains very much untouched. Especially if you stay past the daily “prime time”. It was in Yelepa that I parasailed for the first time the good old fashioned way; right off the beach with just a harness! I love an adventure, it keeps you young!

Ride the local water taxi if you want the “real” experience. We go to the bus stop by our hotel and ride it past Jolla de Mismaloya to the last stop Boca de Tomaltan. Then walk down to the bay to catch the local water taxi. Follow these images to know that you are there!

In a past life, I have stayed at the Hotel Lagunitas which is right on the Playa. It was neat to show Serena around the hotel, We even got to peak into the room that I once stayed in (pictured below). There is nothing better than sleeping in the open air of these huts listening to the ocean breathe. A truly meditative and expansive experience.

Villa Amor Boutique Hotel, Sayulita

We rented a Jeep through Eneterprise to take the hour drive up the coast to the little town of Sayulita. Known as a surfing paradise with 10 incredible surf breaks, the village is friendly, colorful and down to earth; a true representation of Mexican heritage and culture.

Tucked way from the hustle and bustle is Villa Amor Boutique Hotel. The property offers a one of a kind experience with 25 unique and beautifully-designed oceanfront luxury villas it is just a short walk to Playa Sayulita. It is a truly magical and very romantic experience.

Being Comfortable at Any Age, Women 17 to 71, A Multigenerational Photo Shoot

by Sonia Lovett | May 18, 2018 | Fashion

Fashion Photo Shoot Fun!

If you caught “My stories” during this fashion shoot, you noticed it was pouring rain. Of course, we managed to have fun anyway. Our destination was the Flathead Lake Lodge a huge dude ranch in Bigfork, Montana with tons of amenities. What could possibly go wrong! The management was wonderful and more than accommodating. We were set. Our imaginations were humming, and we had boxes and boxes of divine outfits coming every day. Jimmy from Fed Ex was a regular.

It all started out innocently enough when my friend Sue and I went off to scout for locations.

Serena and I had been planning a multigenerational photo shoot for quite a while. It was bohemian inspired, with models from 17 to 71. We were looking for a Montana hideaway with lots of different settings: teepees, cabins, lakefronts.

As the day approached the weather was getting worse. Of course, the day before we were scheduled to shoot it started raining and never stopped. Another lesson in
You can control some of the things some of the time…

We had to cancel the Lodge and move to the house. Now the games are really on! We had to find the best lighting in the house bring in tropical plants, rugs, and pillows you name it. All to provide us with the right setting to showcase our theme.

Controlled chaos!

We had a lovely time with all our local ladies the day before. We tried on outfits and set the scene. Sadly, as promised, the day of the photo shoot was raining cats and dogs.

Working With Hope.

Our photographer Hope (IG:@hkcameraface) is patient super talented and flexible. Not to mention busy. Currently in a Hong Kong working for 10 days. She has managed to make everyone look great and be comfortable with the camera.

We started at three ( lots of activity) and around four o’clock we realize we are missing one. Our new assistant Laura is not here. Unusual and completely out of character! A quick check of my email and it turns out she has been in an accident and is in the hospital with a neck brace waiting on an MRI. Another call and she is “fine” but sore. Thank goodness. One hand down!

In the coming weeks Stylebeyondage will be expressing through pictures, how different generations can take a look or a feeling and translate into a fashion statement that works for your age. Our hope is that you enjoy seeing it as much as we enjoyed producing it. We hope to inspire, amuse you and deliver to your imagination the truth that fashion and trends can really be applicable to Style Beyond Age.

Microblading…yes or no?

by Sonia Lovett | May 4, 2018 | Skincare

Why bother with an eyebrow pencil when you don’t have to? Originally I had thought microblading was some sort of facial service such as skin resurfacing. However, I was wrong. My morning routine is short for a reason, number one I don’t bother with too much makeup. But I had gotten to the point where my eyebrows were slowly starting to disappear. Oh no! One more step in my morning routine. Not happy.

I get bored easily so you can imagine my trepidation at having my eyebrows set for good. I did some research which is key, and then I decided to dive in. I am including an article and pictures, which I used in my research for those of you who have inquired (or may just be curious!).

Microblading

An Article Published by Montana Women

What is it and is it right for you?

If you have yet to hear of this procedure, you will! It is the fastest growing beauty procedure in the world. Microblading was first introduced in Asia as far back as 25 years ago but has begun to become popular only recently in the US. It goes by many names including feather stroking, eyebrow embroidery, the Japanese method, etc. So, what exactly is Microblading? Unlike traditional permanent makeup or makeup tattooing, microblading is considered to be semi-permanent and is most traditionally performed with a hand tool containing multiple, ultra fine needles which then manually deposit pigment under the skin. Unlike permament makeup, microblading is only expected to last anywhere from 9 months to 2 years depending on the individual skin type. Also, instead of simply filling in the brow with pigment, fine hairlike strokes are scored into the skin mimicking the effect of real hairs. The natural and realistic result is what has caused this beauty procedure’s popularity to skyrocket recently.

Now, if you’re at all like me, there’s one thing you do not leave undone before you leave the house, it’s your brows. Why? Eyebrows frame the entire face! Without them, the portrait may still be beautiful but is left incomplete. Imagine the convenience of being able to go to the gym or the beach or the pool and not having to worry about your brows washing off. This is the same reason eyelash extensions have gained such huge popularity in recent years. Believe me when I say, microblading is here to stay!

Now, you may be asking yourself, “is this for me”? The answer is quite simple. Anyone who wants to have full, natural looking, even brows make the perfect candidate. Other clients include those suffering from scarring, Trichotillomania, Alopecia and Cancer, or other diseases and disorders that have led to natural hair loss.

The next, most logical question would be “what can I expect from my microblading procedure?” Quite honestly, depending on the techniques used and experience of your technician, you can achieve any fullness or shape of brow your heart desires. As with all of my clients however, remember, your technician is a professional and other than slights tweaks, you should trust their judgement when it comes to mapping out your brows. Hiring the right technician is of utmost importance. I cannot tell you the number of brows gone wrong I have had to fix over the last year. So, how do you do this? Look at their portfolio, pictures do not lie! Make sure as your browsing that you see consistent, great work. Your technician should be a master with mapping out different brow shapes to properly frame the face as well as proportionate looking brows. Also, speak with others who have had their brows done and ask about their own experience. After all, your going to have to live with that persons work on your face for quite some time. They should also be aware and up to date on all the new microblading procedures in practice as continued education in all fields shows their passion for their work.

Here is what you can expect at your appointment; first off, this is typically a two step procedure. At your first appointment you can expect to spend about 2 hours which includes a full client consultation. First, we discuss what your expectations are…what your unhappy with and what your desired end result is. Next, with the help of a special tool to determine exact measurements of the brow, they are drawn on so that you have a clear picture of the finished product. This also allows you to have the opportunity to voice any concerns so that adjustments can be made. Numbing cream is then applied to the area to make the procedure less painful, consider it slightly uncomfortable but definitely tolerable. The mircroblading itself only takes about 40 minutes to an hour to complete.

A follow up appointment is almost always necessary. The reason being, minimal scabbing, as with any tattoo, is expected during the healing process and as a result, some of the pigment is bound to come with the shedding of the skin. This will be corrected during your touch up appointment 4-8 weeks following your procedure.

The beauty industry is an ever growing and evolving machine that is always keeping it’s ear open to the current concerns that we as women have and the industry has yet to let us down! I have been a Professional in the industry for nearly 20 years and the development of new products and procedures is always exciting! This is why I have made the decision to expand my business and use my experience, knowledge and expertise in Makeup Artistry to now include Microblading! I have been mapping brows and using freehand techniques since I started in the industry with MAC Cosmetics. New techniques and procedures that help women feel even more confident is what drew me to the beauty industry and is what continues to provide me with a sense of fulfillment.

If this is something you would like more information about, I am more than happy to answer any questions you may about this exciting new procedure to determine if this would benefit you.

A Podcast! Who me?

by Sonia Lovett | May 2, 2018 | Lifestyle, Press

A few months ago I a received an email from a lady called Elaine Benoit. To my shock, she was requesting and interview regarding my entry into the Instagram platform specifically because of my age and relative success. I have never done a Podcast and technically speaking It was a challenge. I know this sounds silly. By now it is expected I would be on Skype or something which I have not. I was in the California Desert at the time, with no tech support and sketchy internet. I delayed. Performance anxiety I think they call it; what do I say, how do I sound ?…. What if I end up sounding like a fool (not too unusual really)

Elaine Benoit has started a podcast called MaturePrenurial. As the name suggests, she interviews “mature” entrepreneures who started their current businesses after 40. The goal is to show that it is possible to achieve success at all levels of life and shed some light on how.

Listen Here!

In the end, the interview took place here in Montana at Glacier IT. I was assured of good internet and the most capable ladies who help me with my tech “issues” . OK it was a phone call and I had earphones. So much for stressing out. Another lesson in making a big deal out of essentially nothing. Have you caught yourself doing that?

I can’t express enough my thanks to Elaine. She is so easy to talk to. I never felt any stress, we could have been chatting on the sofa between friends. I have not heard the podcast yet, it comes out on April 2 and we will all be hearing it at the same time.

My hope is that you find some grains of wisdom, amusement and inspiration in our conversation. And that you continue listening to Elaine’s podcast to learn, as I have, through her inspired pointed questions.

Easy, Fabulous Skin Over Fifty

by Sonia Lovett | Apr 18, 2018 | Skincare

Having fabulos skin over fifty is easier than you you think. Lately I have been getting a lot of comments about my skin. Positive ones thankfully. They have been coming from ladies I have known for ages and from women I have never met. The question is always the same, What do you do to take care of your skin?

I have found the key to good skin is two fold. Consistency and Product choice.

If you know me, (all appearances to the contrary on my Instagram account) I don’t do much on the girly froufrou front.

If it takes too much time I’m out the door. My hair is a prime example.

About twenty years ago I found the Obagi system . It was four steps, didn’t take long and the efficacy was outstanding. They have changed the formulation since then but It worked on texture and brown spots and exfoliated my skin which is key.

At my age now. 65, my routine is even more simple.

I use two products and sunscreen.

AM routine

Antioxidant. SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic I put this serum on first.

Moisturizer. Perricone MD High Potency Amine Face Lift.

Sunscreen. LaRoche Anthelios AOX. SPF 50 its an antioxidant serum with sunscreen. It never looks white and blends smoothly into your skin.

Sometimes my skin looks too shiny to me. I use Murad Invisiblu Perfecting Shield.

PM Routine

Retin A 0.05 I had been using the more potent 1% . I would peel and get red and ended up using it on and off. Then I read a study that mentioned the results between 1% and 0.05% were negligible. Once I started using .0.05% I was able to do so nightly.

Glycolic Acid. I exfoliate my face from time to time. About once a week. I use the most potent product I can find. Hopefully 10% . I find this one at TJ Max or on the Internet. Never combine Retin A and Glycolics or AHA

Full disclosure. I don’t wear any “makeup”, base/concealer or whatever to cover my skin. Never have. So what you see is what you get. That is why cleansing is not a problem with me. My skin is breathing all the time.

Special Issues

Sagging skin and creepiness are an issue now. I have to take extra care of my jawline and neck and I have been using Cle de Peau Beaute @CledePeauBeauteUS in that area. A little extra time morning and night is worth the trouble to tighten up those areas and formulations specific to that skin are key.

And my upper lip. I have never smoked and don’t use a straw So Why, Oh Why? Have I developed these lines. For the last two months I have been trying a product that is working. Bionova anti aging lip treatment is medical grade and I am seeing results. You might want to try that.

Again. Consistency. This is not a one time fix so if you want it to work you have to use it.

My body… I love exfoliating my body and when I was younger I would concoct my own formulas for scrubs and rubs. I would mix salt and lemon with oils. Brown sugar orange essential oil and sesame oil. . Fun!! I also mixed my own body oils. A combination of olive, sesame, mineral….. and essential oils.

My time is more limited now and I found Malie Organics. @malieorganics With wonderful scents that more than do the trick. From scrubs to potent body oils in perfumes that energize and mesmerize there is a choice for every mood. Try those.

Modernism Week

by Sonia Lovett | Feb 21, 2018 | Fashion

I am an architecture junkie! For ages I have wanted to explore Palm Springs and soak up the remnants of old Hollywood glamour. The excitement more than lingers in this Valley and is part of the romance and lore of the area.
With that in mind, Serena and I went on an adventure in the Indian Canyons neighborhood looking for the most iconic and the not so well known homes.
This year, Modernism Week runs from February 15 thru 25. Festivities range from Grand Openings to Private Parties and Home Tours. One of the highlights this year is the unveiling of Albert Frey’s tennis estate Hidden Frey. The Moroccan House is a highlight for me as was the Elvis’s Honeymoon House.
We took pictures in the hidden neighborhoods and ended up at the Parker Hotel. A true gem in the desert! You walk into a wonderland of exotic decor and you know in that instance that you can become anyone you want to be.

Is That Love I Smell?

by Sonia Lovett | Feb 7, 2018 | Wellness

Ode to Staying Sane on Valentines Day

It’s February! Let the panic over Valentines Day begin! My “research” tells me that Valentine’s Day can be stressful for everyone involved. Some think that it’s a contrived holiday made up by Hallmark to fuel the pressure of performance. The other side feels dejected and left out of the general excitement of it all!

Whatever your take is on February 14th, make this one a day full of self love and gratitude!

Take matters into your own hands and be the master of your own destiny. Make reservations at that sexy spot. Buy yourself flowers and candy. Take time to honor yourself and all of your glory. And don’t forget the perfume!

I suggest dressing the part regardless! Here are some of my favorite looks (and Rules) for this Valentines Day. Weather you are having a romantic dinner out with your honey or staying in with the girls.

They say expectations are the root of all heartache. I say you create your own reality.

With much love and gratitude,

Sonia

Travel: Cayman Islands

by Sonia Lovett | Jan 20, 2018 | Travel

What a wonderful girls trip!

Serena and I had a blast in the Cayman Islands with a group of new and old girlfriends. Playing around with women of different ages has always been a joy to me! I learn from each generation and each decade. Sharing our ideas and experiences brings growth to all of us. If you haven’t spent quality time with your Gal Pals lately put something on the books now! As you can see in my multigenerational photo shoot #17to71 it’s always an eye opening and joyous experience!

Seafire, Grand Cayman

Kimpton has done it again and this time it is in the form of their lifestyle resort Seafire! A brand new, sprawling and truly magnificent resort at the far end of Seven Mile Beach. The open air design of this property offers water vistas every chance it gets! We enjoyed a front row seat to our last sunset in Grand Cayman over drinks at one of their many dining destinations and got lost in their winding gardens that lead to secret sanctuaries. A must see and for me a MUST STAY next time we are on the Island.

The Ritz Carlton, Grand Cayman

This beautifully sprawling property is the essence of Luxury for Grand Cayman. The resort has a photo opp around every corner, breathtaking views, 6 restaurants, la prairie spa, and two outdoor pools. It is a one shop stop for a restful and luxurious vacation on the Island. Our girl gang loved dinning on the outdoor terrace with the sea breeze and of course Serena and I ran around the beautiful property and snapped same photos!

Coral Stone Club, Grand Cayman

If you like to find your luxury and relaxation in the comfort of your own home, might I recommend Coral Stone Condos. The eight of us stayed here (in two condos of corse!) which is conveniently located RIGHT next to the Ritz! The property has all of the amenities of being at home; that is, if your home is beachfront with endless views from your private patio and comes with a lovely and friendly staff to assist you in your every need! Serena cooked us a beautiful family dinner in our state of the art kitchen and we relaxed in the private infinity pool and jacuzzi every evening! This property is perfect for family getaways and adventures with your friends!

Georgia Girl Charters

We’re not fisherman, just loungers. But that didn’t make a lick of difference for the crew of Georgia Girl Charters who are known for their incredible fishing expeditions. Our captain and first mate took us on an amazing adventure as we sailed to lunch then to Sting Ray Bay where we made out with the puppies of the sea! Did you know that kissing a Sting Ray will bring you 10 years of good luck? I’ll let you know if it works!