The Ritual Diaries is a bi-weekly editorial series where we talk to our favorite creators, experts, and change-makers about how they take care of themselves in a busy world. This week, we spoke to Paulina Char, a product developer at Tower 28. Paulina is based in Los Angeles, a lover of all things beauty and food, and a believer that nothing good comes easy, but what’s meant for you, is yours.
What is the first thing you do in the morning?
The very first thing I do every morning is cuddle with Joey, my fluffy piece of heaven. I then walk him and check my phone.
How has your upbringing and environment shaped your understanding of wellness?
I grew up in a very healthy environment both physically and emotionally and I feel extremely grateful for that. I think mental health is the epitome of wellness and my mom and family were always in support of therapy and taking care of yourself from the inside out but also always taught us the importance of working hard and enjoying life. I’m a true believer in balance and listening to yourself and your body.
Also, working at Tower 28 Beauty for almost 5 years has really shifted my view on what “clean” means and it most definitely made me more aware of what I eat, what I use and the impact that we have on the environment.
What makes you feel your best?
I’ve always felt my best when I’m surrounded by my people whom I love and adore and I can be myself. Good conversation, a good laugh and good food is all I need! (And maybe some sour candy)
What has been the hardest part of your wellness journey—and how did you overcome it?
I think the hardest part was letting go of the lies society tells us and the unreal perfection we see on social media. I was always a bit hard on myself when I didn’t have a perfect routine or if I wasn’t working out as often as other people or eating as healthy as I should be or because I simply didn’t enjoy meditating and felt like I had to. I learned that everyone is different, every body is different and what works for someone doesn’t have to work for you. And I’ve found my own version of wellness that works for me and makes me happy and to me, that’s all that matters.
Paula Char
What is something you would like to see more of in the wellness world?
I think we’ve come a long way but I would love to see more kindness and compassion! I think social media, especially TikTok, has given everyone a platform and thats not always a good thing. I think people (not everyone) have forgotten how to be kind to one another. We’re living in a very strange, complicated world where priorities are often reversed and the more compassion we have towards one another the better we will feel and hopefully it domino effects.
What is a ‘must-have’ product in your routine?
The new Tower 28 Beauty Mascara, MakeWaves, is a must-have for me! And a lip treatment, I hate having dry lips!
How do you define ‘healthy’?
For me, being healthy is being good to yourself. I believe in doing what feels right to you, eating what you’re craving, working out to take care of yourself not to burn the calories you just ate, taking a break when needed, having a strong work-life balance. At the end of the day I really believe that if you’re happy, you’re healthy.
What is something you look forward to everyday?
I love walking my dog every morning. It’s kind of my form of mediation. I try to leave my phone at home and enjoy the few minutes of calm before my day starts!
How do you reset yourself after a bad moment?
I’m the kind of person that needs to be alone to recharge so whenever I’m having a bad moment I just hide away for a little bit and go on my phone to distract myself, or take a shower and just breathe.
What is a ritual that brings you joy?
My quiet alone time every morning making my coffee or matcha.
What is the last thing you do at night?
Unfortunately, I’m probably on TikTok.