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SEARCHNail tech Valeria Ramirez hopes to expand her new business while maintaining her commitment to the healthy lifestyle that energizes her and keeps her feeling fit.
Tell us a bit about yourself and your career.
I’m 31 years old and originally from Leon, Guanajuato, Mexico. I moved to Los Angeles when I was 18. I began my career as a nail tech seven years ago after taking a class simply for the fun of it. I never thought I would enjoy working in the beauty industry until after that first class, when I realized doing nails is my passion. I recently opened a salon in Whittier, Calif., called Whittier Beauty Collective.
What are your health goals?
I work out not to reach a certain goal weight or to be the perfect size. Rather, I love the way it makes me feel. Feeling healthy and strong is what keeps me motivated to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Tell me about the classes you take and why you like them.
For the first time in my life, I hired a personal trainer. Having a trainer pushes me beyond my mental limits. With a trainer holding me accountable as well as pushing me to do my best, I feel fulfilled in my mind, body, and spirit.
How long have you been working your plan and what has been your result so far?
I started my journey four months ago and so far have lost 20 pounds. For me, losing this weight has made me feel stronger both mentally and physically. I love coming to work with energy, ready to start my day with a great attitude.
What further goals do you have?
Since I recently opened my own salon, my goal is to maintain a healthy lifestyle while expanding the business and keeping up the same level of professionalism and excellent customer service.
How does your job as a nail tech affect your plan?
What affects my plan more than anything is my busy nail tech schedule. Sometimes appointments run later than expected and it makes it difficult to eat every two to three hours.
What has been the most difficult aspect of your healthy lifestyle?
The hardest part of my healthy lifestyle is finding the time for meal prep and making sure I eat every two to three hours.
What’s your advice for other nail techs who want to embark on a healthy lifestyle?
My advice is to make the commitment to put yourself first. Remember, you are the most important person, and when you feel great inside and out, everything else seems to fall in line. But the number-one reason to pursue a health journey is self-love. Practicing self-love is what matters the most.
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