February, the month of love, invites us to reflect on our most vital organ: our heart. Latinas face disproportionate rates of heart disease, obesity, and other conditions that put our health at risk. But, we are not alone. Together, we can take control and build a healthier future.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, yet people of color face the greatest risk. This is due to a combination of factors, including genetic predisposition, limited access to healthcare, stress, and lifestyle habits. However, small changes can make a big difference. Although the statistics are alarming, there are ways to improve your heart health. Apple is sharing its five best tips to improve your heart health this year.
Exercise is your ally to better heart health
If you’re feeling lazy, it’s time to get your body moving. The American Heart Association recommends 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. This doesn’t mean you have to become an athlete overnight. Dance, walk, run, whatever makes you feel alive. If you need motivation, the Activity app on the Apple Watch can help you track your progress, remind you to move, and even compete with your friends. Find your rhythm.
Ditch the cigarettes and quit smoking
Smoking is a silent enemy that increases the risk of heart attacks. But there’s good news, quitting drastically reduces this risk, almost by half. You can gradually quit, join a program, or go cold turkey. Either way, your heart will thank you for it.
Spend quality time with your loved ones
Happiness is a balm for the heart. Spending time with friends and family, laughing, and sharing, strengthens our bonds and our cardiovascular health. Studies show that lack of social connection is a risk factor for heart disease, especially in young women. Don’t isolate yourself. Cultivate your relationships, and celebrate life with those you love.
Get quality sleep
Rest is essential for heart health. Lack of sleep can lead to medical conditions that increase the risk of heart disease. The Mayo Clinic recommends seven or more hours of sleep per night. The Sleep app on the Apple Watch helps you create a personalized sleep schedule, and the Wind Down feature prepares you for a restful break. Prioritize your rest.
Tap into inner peace
Stress is a significant risk factor for heart disease. Meditation and mindfulness can help you manage stress, lower blood pressure, improve sleep, and reduce the risk of heart disease. The Mindfulness app on the Apple Watch guides you through short and effective meditation sessions. Give yourself a break! Together, we can build a healthier and stronger Latino community.
This Heart Month, let’s commit to caring for ourselves, loving ourselves, and living fully. Let’s remember that we are powerful, resilient, and capable of achieving great things.
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and what better way to make a statement than with a classic, bold red lipstick?
For Latinas, finding the perfect red can be a game-changer, complementing our diverse range of skin tones and undertones. While it may seem daunting, this guide will break down some of the best red lipsticks, helping you find your perfect match for a timeless look.
Understanding your undertone is key to picking the right red lipstick
Before diving into specific shades, it’s crucial to understand your skin’s undertone to pick the right red lipstick. This will determine which reds make your features pop. There are generally three categories: warm, cool, and neutral.
Warm skin tones typically have golden or yellow undertones that tan easily. Reds with orange or brick undertones will suit you best. In contrast, cooler skin tones may have pink or blue undertones, whose skin tends to burn rather than tan. Reds with blue or pink undertones will complement your skin. Those with neutral skin tones have a mix of warm and cool undertones. You can often pull off a wider range of reds.
For people with fair skin with warm undertones, coral and brick reds are the best choice. Corals are vibrant reds with a touch of coral or orange. These shades add warmth and luminosity to fair skin.
If you have fair skin with cool undertones, cherry and raspberry tones are your best shot. Cherries are bright, vibrant reds with a blue undertone that create a striking contrast against fair skin. Raspberry reds are a deeper red with a hint of pink or purple can add a touch of drama.
Those with medium skin tones that have warm undertones can bet on tomato and sangria reds. Tomato reds are rich, vibrant reds with a slight orange undertone and are a safe bet. Sangria reds are also a good choice, as they are deep, wine-colored reds with hints of purple or burgundy adding richness and depth.
True and Mahogany Reds
Dark skin with warm undertones looks stunning in true reds (bold, vibrant reds with a slight orange undertone) and warm and deep in mahogany reds (rich, reddish-brown shades). On the other hand, dark skin with cool undertones exudes luxury with Bordeaux reds (deep, wine-colored reds with purple undertones) and makes a powerful statement with oxblood reds (deep, blood-red shades with hints of brown and purple).
Make a statement with a lip liner, lip balm, and exfoliation
To make sure your red look is complete, go for these amazing tips that will make a bold statement. Prep your lips by exfoliating and moisturizing for a smooth canvas. Use a lip liner that matches your lipstick shade to define your lips and prevent bleeding.
Shakira celebrated her 48th birthday with big wins—and a shout-out to the immigrant community.
On February 2, the Colombian songstress took home the Grammy for Best Latin Pop Album for her 2024 EP “Las Mujeres Ya no Lloran.” Taking the stage after Jennifer Lopez presented the award, Shakira surprised the crowd by dedicating her accolade to immigrants and mothers.
“I want to dedicate this award to all my immigrant brothers and sisters in this country,” she started. “You are loved, you are worth it, and I will always fight with you. And to all of those women who work really hard to provide for their families, you are the true she-wolves. I also want to share this award with my kids Milan and Sasha who are here with me. I’m so proud of you guys, of your kind hearts, thank you guys for supporting me the way you do.”
Shakira sided with immigrants after mass deportations in the United States over the last few weeks
Winning the Grammy against nominees Kany Garcia, Anitta, Kali Uchis, and Anitta, Shakira put her stage time to good use. An immigrant herself, her comments come at a pivotal time after mass deportations have happened over the last few weeks since Donald Trump’s presidential inauguration.
According to Newsweek, Trump plans to deport 11 million people during his current presidential term. With several flights to Colombia and Mexico already deporting hundreds of people, with many others in ICE custody.
Other artists, such as Alicia Keys, denounced the president’s actions. After winning the Global Impact Award, the singer passionately spoke against the removal of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion laws.
“This is not the time to shut down a diversity of voices. We’ve seen on this stage, talented, hardworking people from different backgrounds with different points of view, and it changes the game,” she said. “DEI is not a threat, it’s a gift. And the more voices, the more powerful the sound.”
The Colombian singer also performed on the GRAMMY stage after nearly two decades
In celebration of her nominations and award, Shakira took the Grammy stage for the first time since 2007. Showing that her “Hips Don’t Lie,” she performed her 1998 hit “Ojos Así,” and the record-breaking “Shakira: BZRP Music Sessions, Vol.53.” Dressed in two golden outfits she showed off the power of her career and personal transformation.
Shakira has won four Grammy awards throughout her career. Las Mujeres Ya no Lloran is her latest album, and the first after a seven-year hiatus. In March, she shared with the Associated Press that she took time off to raise her family alongside ex-partner Gerard Piqué.
“Well, in those seven years I’ve been raising kids, I’ve been learning a lot about myself as a mother, as a woman,” she told the publication. “But I’ve also been making music. It’s just that it’s been more of a sporadic thing, you know, here and there. Whenever I had a chance to put out a song, I did that. But I didn’t have the time to really put a whole body of work. This time, it was a compulsion and a need. It was really important for me to be able to express, in and through these songs, so many life experiences and to find catharsis, you know, and to be able to find the therapeutic effects of writing and see myself back in the studio.”
The Year of the Snake is officially here, which means it’s time to shed old skin and let go of negative energy. Based on the Chinese lunisolar calendar, this lunar new year makes way for a fresh start. While the snake may be seen as a negative omen for Western cultures, it’s a celebrated symbol in the East.
To kick off this year of the snake, Modern Muze talked to LA-based jewelry designer and vintage curator, Samantha Knight. Curating jewelry motifs and statement pieces worldwide, Knight shares her new collection, which blends timeless beauty and rich symbolism of Victorian-era jewelry while adding 1970s spice to this new year. Get ready to give your closet much-needed, rebellious touches, and cleverness with her tips.
1. Given the historical significance of snake motifs in jewelry, particularly within Victorian-era pieces, how do you see contemporary interpretations of this symbol differ from those of the past?
The snake motif has certainly evolved throughout time–I suppose we could say that it has shed its skin (pun intended). Jewelry is such a treasure trove of history—especially designs that include creatures as symbolic as the snake. In Victorian-era jewelry, they slithered onto the scene as symbols of eternal love, wisdom, and protection. Queen Victoria was quite the icon rocking a snake engagement ring–talk about setting trends! Pieces from this era were all about intricate details—coiled bodies, sparkling gemstone eyes, and a regal vibe that felt straight out of a fairytale.
Fast forward to today—we see interpretations of snakes that are bold, sleek, and unapologetically modern. You see everything from minimalist designs with clean, polished lines to oversized, sculptural creations that scream “statement piece”. Designers now use the snake as a canvas to express themselves with texture, scale, and drama.
What I really love is how the symbolism of the snake has evolved. Back then, it was all about eternal love and devotion. Now? Snakes represent personal power, transformation, and owning your individuality. The snake’s still timeless, but it’s matured and even morphed—like us, really. It’s proof that this symbol will always reinvent itself while still maintaining magical, historical charm. Who wouldn’t want to wear that kind of story?
2. What are some of the most unique or unexpected ways you’ve seen the snake motif incorporated into jewelry design in recent years?
Snakes in jewelry have totally leveled up lately, and I’m continually inspired by the creativity! I’m always thrilled when I see snakes sneaking into unexpected places—like ear climbers that coil up the ear or rings with tiny, hidden serpent details. It’s like a secret between the piece of jewelry and the one wearing it–and that feels exciting. I also love seeing that designers are playing with materials in fun ways—snakes made of enamel or woven metals that mimic scales.
Courtesy of Samantha Knight
And I can’t not mention my absolute adoration for statement pieces—oversized chokers, lifelike cuffs, I’ve even seen necklaces with hinges so the snake appears to move with one wearing it. The snake motif isn’t just symbolic—it’s alive and thriving, constantly evolving in bold, unexpected ways. You never know where it’ll show up next, and that’s what makes it fascinating.
3. How can someone effectively style snake jewelry to reflect their personal style, whether it’s classic, bohemian, or avant-garde?
Snake jewelry is so versatile—it can be incorporated into any sense of personal style with ease! If you’re going for a classic vibe, stick to timeless pieces, perhaps even understated, like a dainty gold snake ring or a sleek bracelet. Pair it with a white tee and a tailored blazer, dark tailored denim, and a pair of pointed toe flats and you’ve suddenly mustered an effortless, elegant look that’s as timeless as snake jewelry is.
For a bohemian feel, lean into texture and layers. Think snake motifs in earthy tones, enamel, or even mixed metals. Maybe try out a layered snake pendant with other necklaces, stacked bangles, even eclectic pieces with gemstone details. When paired with flowy fabrics and romantic silhouettes, you’ve suddenly transformed yourself into a free-spirited goddess.
If you’re all about avant-garde, go bold. The options are endless when it comes to statement pieces that incorporate snakes in their designs–oversized snake cuffs, coiled chokers, or earrings that climb up the ear. These pieces pair perfectly with sleek, minimalist clothing, allowing them to truly take center stage.
Snake jewelry is a chameleon, if you will—it can adapt to fit into any style and can really be used to express who you are and what you love.
4. Considering the snake’s association with rebellion and cleverness, how can someone use snake jewelry to make a bold statement or express their individuality?
Snake jewelry is perfect for channeling that rebellious, clever energy—it’s all about owning your power and turning heads. To make a bold statement, go for a piece that feels unapologetically you. For me, this means a bold snake bracelet—and bonus bad-ass points if it’s worn on your upper arm.
5. What are some of your favorite pieces from your collection that feature the snake motif, and what inspired their design?
The Victorian-era snake rings included within the collection hold a special place in my heart. They represent history and romance. I’ve found myself more than once daydreaming about who the original owners of each piece were and what they felt when wearing the jewelry.
There’s something so captivating about the craftsmanship of that time, especially the way they wove symbolism into every detail. I have a special love for snake rings with gems; sometimes, the different gems might represent each person’s birthstones in the relationship. These are my absolute favorite finds! They represent intertwined lives and it feels like the piece is guarding a little treasure – a beautiful nod to the snake’s association with protection and wisdom.
These designs resonate so deeply to me as a designer–they balance beauty with meaning. The Victorians loved snakes as symbols of eternal love and loyalty, and that sentiment feels timeless. These pieces don’t just make a statement—they tell a story, and that’s what I look for in every piece I curate.
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.
