Winter is in full swing and so is dry January. While you may be dreaming of summer, there’s no need to catch a plane to escape to a tropical paradise. An original editor’s recipe, this Tropical Guava Glow Mocktail is a refreshing and vibrant drink bursting with flavors from the tropics. The delightful mocktail combines sweet guava, tangy passion fruit and coconut water with a splash of lime to balance sweetness an zest.
Finish it all off with sparkling water and a touch of mint. This is the perfect mocktail to enjoy alone, with friends, or even when hosting a party that needs a little touch of sunshine.
Ingredients:
2 oz guava juice (fresh if possible)
1 oz pineapple juice
1 oz coconut water
1/2 oz fresh lime juice
1/2 oz passion fruit puree
1 tsp honey or agave syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
2–3 mint leaves (plus extra for garnish)
Sparkling water (to top)
Ice cubes
Directions:
Step 1: In a shaker, lightly muddle the mint leaves with honey or agave syrup to release the aroma.
Step 2: Add the juices, coconut water, and passion fruit puree into a shaker. Add ice to the shaker and shake well for 10-15 seconds or until the shaker gets frosty.
Step 3: Strain the mixture into a tall glass filled with ice. Top with sparkling water for a fizzy finish. Garnish with a lime wheel, a sprig of mint, and optional edible flowers to give it a tropical look.
After weeks of the Palisades and Eaton fires ravishing hundreds of homes in Los Angeles, the city and its citizens are grieving. Many families’ entire livelihoods are gone, with the city facing unimaginable loss and a long recovery road ahead.
As they grapple with devastating losses, including loved ones, homes, jobs, and a sense of security, grief is a natural step in the process of healing. Community and support are crucial in offering solace and strength in such moments. While financial support is incredibly impactful, there are many meaningful ways to help grieving families rebuild emotionally.
Here are some ways to support grieving families through these difficult times.
1. Be present and listen
Grief often leaves people feeling isolated. In these challenging times, staying away from saying things like “you need to do this” or “you should do that” is not helpful or productive. In many instances, offering your time and attention can be the most valuable thing to offer. Sit with families, listen to their stories, and allow them to express their emotions without judgment. Simple phrases like “I’m here for you” or “It’s okay to feel this way” can provide immense comfort.
2. Organize emotional support and grief circles
Encourage the creation of small support groups where families can share experiences and hear from others who understand their experiences. These gatherings can foster connections and remind families they are not alone. Dr. Carole Lieberman told TIME, “Be compassionate and empathetic, and ask about the person’s story, because everybody has a story—or lots of stories.”
3. Offer practical help
Rather than offering advice, there’s much to do in the aftermath of the fires. With an overwhelming, endless to-do list, you can assist with errands, babysitting, pet sitting or fostering for a few days, and helping clean up debris. Sometimes, the best way to help is to be there for people.
4. Provide pressure-free check in’s
You don’t have to say a lot during these challenging times for people to feel supported. Reaching out with small gestures and check-ins can greatly encourage and help. Instead of overwhelming your friends or family with long messages they may feel pressured to respond to, send messages such as “I’m hoping you’re doing well, is there any way I can help?” or say “I’m just checking in, but don’t feel pressured to respond if you need anything, I’m here for you whenever you need.”
5. Connect them with long-term healing options like therapy
Encourage families to join support groups or therapy services when they’re ready. Several free outlets are available, including Call Your Fam, with over 650 therapists offering free help for victims. You can start the process by texting (858) 722-1920 or DM @callyourfam. The Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health Resources also has this complete list of resources for those impacted by the wildfires.
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Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections worldwide. However, research shows it disproportionately affects Latinas, leading to the demographic with the highest number of deaths from cervical cancer in the United States.
Several factors contribute to this disparity. Among them are limited access to healthcare, lack of insurance, language barriers, and stigma. Additionally, immigration status and fear of deportation may discourage some Latinas from seeking medical care.
Addressing these factors is essential to reducing HPV-related health issues for Latinas, but hope is not lost.
Educating Latinas about the HPV vaccine and early testing is pivotal to saving lives
Screening and vaccination are two powerful tools in the fight against HPV and cervical cancer. Regular Pap smears and HPV tests can detect precancerous changes early, allowing timely intervention. Despite their effectiveness, many Latinas do not undergo regular screenings due to misconceptions, fear, or lack of awareness.
According to the American Cancer Society, cervical cancer is among the most preventable diseases and can be treated if caught early. The HPV vaccine, which protects against the most high-risk strains of the virus, is a key preventive measure. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the vaccine for boys and girls starting at age 11 or 12, but it can be given as early as age nine.
Community outreach and culturally sensitive education are vital to improving access to these preventive measures. Partnerships with trusted community leaders, Spanish-language resources, and mobile health clinics can help bridge the gap.
Facts and community are crucial to helping Latinas reduce their risk of HPV and cervical cancer
Even though the figures are alarming, finding community and remembering the facts is a great way to start preventative treatments. For one, finding physicians that are informed, as well as culturally relevant care, can make a huge difference in easing patients to get care. One resource Latinas can tap into is AMIGAS, a program that helps Latinas get screenings and care. The outreach program aids health educators and community workers educate their patients on the importance of screening.
Keeping a healthy diet, staying away from smoking, practicing safe sex, and using condoms are also great ways to prevent HPV and cervical cancer. By taking these steps, we can empower Latinas and their families to make informed decisions about their health. A proactive approach to HPV prevention not only reduces the risk of cervical cancer but also promotes overall well-being in Latina communities. Together, we can create a future where every individual has the opportunity to thrive, free from preventable diseases like HPV.
As the Los Angeles Palisades and Eaton fires continue ravaging the city, many families have lost their homes. The situation is exceptionally challenging for adults but also for children who may not know how to process what is happening.
If you’re having trouble speaking to your kids during these challenging moments, Allison LaTona at BABYGROUP has shared tips on discussing what is happening and the road forward.
“Young children won’t understand the full impact of what is happening or what the immediate future will mean,” LaTona shares. “They live in the moment and need to be re-directed to activities where they can take a break from the reality around them as well as lots of reassurance and connection with you.”
Refrain from talking about fires or having the news on around young children
LaTona’s first tip is to keep children away from the news and the television.
“I know this is going to be one of the hardest things you will do as you are also dealing with your own feelings of loss, and continuing to cope with the fear you felt when trying to get to your kids from work/pick them up from school, or possibly being trapped on the road trying to escape the flames,” she explains. “I know that sense of panic you are feeling right now. Do your best to set it aside and create the coziest space you can for you, and your children.”
Additionally, LaTona recommends telling children what is happening in a story format, as if it were a book or coming from a teacher. Here’s a prompt she recommends using:
“Sometimes we get a rain storm, or a snow storm, and this time, there is a firestorm. There are helpers called firefighters who help people stay safe by taking them to a safe space where there is no fire…like where we are now…there is no fire here and we are in a safe space together.”
You can also add, “The firefighters help mommies and daddies get to their children so they can all be together again. The firefighters spray lots and lots of water on the fire to make it go away. This can take a very long time but the firefighters are strong and brave, and they know how to do this to keep everyone safe.”
Include emotional tones such as “It is very sad….(pause)….but sometimes the fire does burn the grass……and the trees…..and the houses…..and we can’t go back to that house again.” If you or your children begin crying, it is okay to let them comfort you and to comfort them.
Provide reassurance
Although children may not know exactly what is going on, it’s normal for them to feel scared. One way to comfort them is by providing reassurance. LaTona recommends being honest, keeping sentences short, holding them, being repetitive, and using the word “safe” often.
You can use this prompt as an example when providing reassurance:
“Sometimes mommy/daddy burns the toast and it leaves a bad smell in the air…that is what is happening outside. Some things got burned and so it is making lots of smoke, and dust in the air, and it smells bad. We need to stay inside today to protect our bodies and keep our bodies safe from the smokey air and dust. We are safe. And also, “We will be able to go outside again soon.”
Acknowledge people helping in the community
Help your children feel safe by letting them know there’s help around them. One way to do this is by acknowledging helpers. From helicopters to sirens, make sure you explain to them what is going on. For example, “Those are helicopters dumping water on the things that are burning,” or “Those are the firefighters driving to the burning places so they can spray water.”
Engage children in activities to keep them distracted
If you ever built a fort as a child, this is the time to do so again! LaTona shares that these kinds of containment helps children feel safe.
This is also a good time to engage them in arts and crafts, without making it overly complicated. Painting, coloring, gluing, cutting, and other activities that keep children an outlet to release anxiety and worrying. You can also have them paint so they can process feeling scared without judgement. Another great activity is to watch movies or clips of the family having a good time, so they can remember happy memories.
For families with children of diverse ages, have older children help you in making the little ones feel safe. This can help them feel included and empowered.
As we enter 2025, the skincare world is buzzing with innovation, sustainability, and science-backed trends. Whether you’re a seasoned skincare enthusiast or just starting to build your routine, this year’s trends offer something for everyone.
From powerhouse ingredients to cutting-edge devices, here are five skincare trends that promise to give you a radiant glow all year. All without breaking the bank.
1. Niacinamide Takes Center Stage
Niacinamide, also known as Vitamin B3, continues to be a skincare superstar in 2025. Loved for its versatility, niacinamide helps improve uneven skin tone, reduce the appearance of pores, and strengthen the skin barrier. This year, expect to see it in more innovative formulations, such as serums that combine niacinamide with other active ingredients like hyaluronic acid and peptides for enhanced hydration and anti-aging benefits.
How to incorporate: Add a niacinamide serum to your morning routine to brighten and protect your skin throughout the day.
2. Fermented Skincare for a Healthy Microbiome
Fermented ingredients are making waves as they support a balanced skin microbiome. Ingredients like fermented rice water, soy, and probiotics are celebrated for their ability to enhance skin’s natural barrier, improve hydration, and promote a glowing complexion. Fermentation also increases the potency of certain ingredients, making them more effective.
How to incorporate: Look for cleansers, essences, or moisturizers with fermented ingredients to layer into your routine.
3. High-Tech Skincare Devices
Tech-savvy beauty tools are transforming at-home skincare in 2025. From LED light masks that target acne and wrinkles to ultrasonic cleansing devices that deep-clean pores, these gadgets offer professional-level results without a trip to the spa. Many devices now come with app integration, allowing users to track progress and personalize their treatments.
How to incorporate: Invest in a device tailored to your skin concerns, like a microcurrent tool for lifting or a blue light device for acne-prone skin.
4. Sustainable and Zero-Waste Beauty
Sustainability is no longer just a trend—it’s a necessity. Skincare brands are leading the charge with eco-friendly packaging, refillable products, and biodegradable formulations. Ingredients are being sourced ethically, and brands are committing to carbon-neutral practices to minimize environmental impact.
How to incorporate: Choose brands with sustainable practices and look for products with minimal packaging or refill options.
✨Skinminimalism ✨ What is this trend and do dermatologists approve? Of all of the internet skincare trends, this one has to be our favorite. Skinminimalism is using the bare minimum skincare products, eliminating unnecessary items, and focusing on protection and skin barrier repair. For the am, we recommend a Vitamin C serum, moisturizer, and SPF. You can also cleanse your skin or just use water and/or use a SPF- moisturizer combo to further simplify. For the PM, always cleanse your skin (double cleanse if you wear makeup) and focus on effective, proven ingredients like retinol. Moisturizers are key when using retinol to reduce irritation. Do you have a minimalist skincare routine? Let us know below ⬇️
The “skinimalism” trend is evolving, with multi-tasking products taking center stage. Think tinted moisturizers with SPF, serums that hydrate and exfoliate, or masks that brighten and detoxify. These products save time, reduce waste, and streamline your routine without compromising results.
How to incorporate: Opt for a BB cream with skincare benefits or a 2-in-1 serum that addresses multiple concerns at once.
Vision boards are powerful tools for manifesting your goals and dreams. By creating a visual representation of what you want to achieve, you can program your subconscious mind to focus on those goals and turn them into reality.
At Modern Muze, we’re big on making things happen and becoming our Muzes. That’s why we’re helping you manifest this 2025 with our best tips for creating a functional vision board.
1. Reflect on 2025 and set goals for 2025
Take some time to reflect on 2024 and identify what you want to achieve in this new year. What are your goals in different areas of your life, including your career, relationships, health, and personal growth? Once you know your goals, you can start gathering images and words to help you represent them. Remember, even if you didn’t get everything you wanted last year, this doesn’t mean you can’t still make them come true this year.
2. Gather images and words that represent your goals
Next, find the tools you’ll need to create your vision board. You can do this virtually or physically, depending on your preference. You can find images and words in magazines, newspapers, online, or even take your own pictures. Choose images and words that resonate with you and evoke feelings you want to experience when you achieve your goals.
3. Choose your vision board format and add your items
Use a poster board or corkboard if you’re going for a physical vision board. However, if you want a digital one you can carry around everywhere, then opt for tools like Canva or Pinterest to help you out. Once you have your images and words, start arranging them on your vision board. There’s no right or wrong way to do this, but you may want to group related items together.
4. Add personal touches to your vision board and place it in a prominent location
You can also add personal touches to your vision board to make it more potent. One way is to include photos of yourself, inspirational quotes, or even small objects representing your goals. Place the vision board somewhere you’ll be able to see it often. This will help you stay focused on your goals and keep them top of mind.
5. Review your vision board regularly
One of the most important parts of vision boarding is consistently reviewing your goals. Especially when feeling discouraged, this will help you remember the big picture and stay on track. Remember to focus on the positive and believe in yourself when doing this. The most important thing is to believe that you can achieve your goals to make them happen.
