ritual Archives - Whitney Victoria

Festiveness is everywhere! In my food and self-care practices…

Festivity Part One: I had a facial today here. It was heaven. I chose the spa because they focus on natural ingredients. I didn’t want harsh products on my poor face. After my first facial I felt super red and slightly in pain and I’ve never had super bad skin so I can imagine what it’s like for other people. This time was going to be different. I had already decided that before booking an appointment.

Other than my skin looking a little lackluster lately, I didn’t have any major concerns to addresss. I mainly wanted some advice on my type of skin and some sort of cleansing relaxation. The “seasonal facial” was right up my alley.

This was the description: “A botanical experience perfect for all skin types featuring vitamin-rich holistic products that enhance your skin’s natural balance and vitality. While your skin absorbs the healing properties of our masques, we’ll delight you with a decollete, full hand & arm exfoliation and body butter application followed by a warm tower hand wrap.”

The esthetician used hot buttered rum exfoliant, peppermint oil in my scalp massage, and some amazing cocoa face mask…yes. It was like I was getting a facial in Christmas land. So many hot towels draped over my eyes and my hands wrapped up. It was so relaxing and my face was a tad red (as to be expected) but it also looked dewy and renewed.

She did tell me that I had small blocks all over and it wasn’t super noticeable to me because I have small pores. She said that it was most likely caused by something topical. I literally never wear foundation so I knew it must be my face cream. Another fact I loved about the process was that I was given a “prescription sheet” of all the products she used on me in case I loved it and wanted to use something at home. It was completely this brand, Eminence Organic Skincare, which I have never heard of before now. It’s so tough for me to find something natural that also doesn’t cause any negative reactions or clogged pores. The “calm” line was recommended since I’m pretty sensitive…of course I am.I’m not one to be talked into a ton of products but I want my skin to be something I’m proud of. Instead of just choosing say the cleanser, or just the cream, I am trying this starter set so see how I like it.

Seriously. I loved every minute of it. I’m currently working them into my schedule because this needs to happen every six weeks or so.

Festivity Part Two:

Oh man. I had the best idea yesterday morning. I had some time to actually use the stove for breakfast. Normally I prep oatmeal the night before or so I wanted good pancakes. You know, with the little crispy edges that show up when you bake something in a pan? I use coconut oil usually but there’s nothing wrong with real butter! My stomach does not do well with egg yolks and I’m always on the lookout for something gluten free. My search led me to this easy recipe. It’s actually a waffle recipe but they’re always the same and I was not dusting my waffle iron off for a batch of 2.

It was so simple yet I was almost out of my regular almond milk and didn’t think I could squeeze a 1/2 cup out of it. I thought, “Hey! Who says I can’t substitute that for my beloved Good Karma Holiday Nog?”

Let me tell you. It’s one of the best “nogs” on the market right now. I’ve tried most dairy-free kinds so that’s saying something. It’s great straight up. I can’t wait to down a glass with a little plateful of gluten-free almond cookies this season. So…it had to be a great addition to my pancakes, right?

SOOO much better than I expected! My pancakes tastes like sugar cookies! I added just a hint of coconut oil at the end and drizzled some maple syrup but next time I wouldn’t even need that! The nog added its own sweetness.

Please try this recipe out! I got my nog at Wegmans but this time of year it’s usually at Giant and Target too! You can use any kind of dairy-free nog (or any kind of milk, I think) but I think you’ll love the festive feel to this breakfast.

Holiday Nog Pancakes

(Makes 2 large pancakes)

1/2 cup gluten-free flour (I love Bob’s Red Mill gf blend.)

1/2 cup Good Karma Holiday Nog

2 tbsp unsweetened applesauce

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp baking powder

Mix all ingredients together. Cook on medium heat in pan with melted coconut oil. Flip once, when you see bubbles on the surface. It will take awhile! Practice patience.

I’ll be making these all winter long. Or at least as long as I can find great dairy-free, healthy drinks.

My favorite way to drink “egg” nog of the season. Christmas Vacation will forever hold a place in my happy holiday heart.

~Whitney Victoria

It’s okay. I ran today. That’s what I need to share with you guys. It’s tough to convince yourself after weeks (possibly months…whoops!) of not running that it’s a good idea again. I had this moment sitting at my desk that I just knew I needed to get outside. My gear was in my car so I headed to my first choice trail. I always carry pepper spray on the paths and don’t wear headphones. I have more control over my thoughts without music blaring in my ears and I like to be aware of my surroundings. It was just 2 miles but I felt alive and accomplished afterward. Something that helps me with motivation and protection on a regular basis is tigers eye. So….

I’m back with some crystal clarity.

Tigers Eye has been one of my faves when I was little and had a rock collection. There are a few types but I’m mostly referring to the most common today Golden Tigers Eye. It’s goldish brown and has a stripe running through it that looks like the “eye of the tiger.” It’s mystical. That stripe seems to move with the light.

I wear this bracelet probably 5-7 days a week. My mom made if for me and I love the energy infused in it. It’s a little reminder I’m strong and protected everytime I see or feel it.I thought it was a good choice to highlight this stone in October because this month is about stepping into your greatness and getting clear on your true desires.

Tigers Eye

Quick Stats:

Element: Fire
Astrological association: Capricorn
Chakra: Solar Plexus
Message: Embrace your personal power
Properties:
- Good luck
- Protection
- Clarity and inner focus
- Courage and determination
- Prosperity

I love this description. I want to be a Radiant Warrior.

Here’s more insight from Energy Muse.

Use Tiger’s Eye healing properties to focus on your prey, form your strategy of attack, and wait for the perfect moment to pounce. Tigers might be the largest feline in the world, but they still allow lions to be kings of the jungle. Channeling a powerful medicine, Tiger’s Eye crystal healing properties teaches us to live with integrity by encouraging the balance of power. Instead of competing with others to stay on top, Tiger’s Eye allows us to climb that career mountain and aim for the stars on our own terms.

This stone is straight up fierce and I need a little of that in my life. I didn’t realize until doing some research for this post how closely the stone’s name is tied to the animal. I have gained an even greater appreciation for it now. Tigers are so mysterious and beautiful, stalking their prey, waiting for the perfect moment to pounce. They’re rare and terrifying and captivating. Now, you don’t have to “believe” in crystal healing to get something out if this. Maybe you want some new style ideas. I picked a few tigers eye pieces that inspire me.