Ellyn Sinicropi, Author at Carrie Ann Conversations

March 12, 2021March 12, 2021

5 Ways To Honor Your Truth

Honor Your Truth | CARRIE ANN CONVERSATIONS

We’ve all experienced it: that uneasy, lingering feeling that something is off balance. When that little voice in your head is speaking, but you can’t quite figure out what it’s saying. When you hear yourself saying one thing, but your gut instinct is in opposition to your words. Sometimes it’s not very clear, but it’s there. And that’s your truth speaking. So what does it mean to honor your truth? It seems easy in concept, but can often be difficult in practice— especially with so many external factors at play. We are surrounded by ads, opinions, images, and even people that can make it a challenge to listen to our own voices.

I’m a person who has luckily never had much of a problem with sticking to my convictions, and even I find all of the noise out there to be overwhelming at times. However, there are ways to cut through the clutter! Here are 5 tips that will help you to recognize your inner voice and stand in your truth.

1. When In Doubt, Write It Out

If you’re not sure where to start honoring your truth, journaling can be a useful tool in connecting with your inner voice. Ask yourself what your values are, what is most important to you in life, and list them out. It’s simple, effective, and might give you a surprising amount of clarity. If you can’t pinpoint your convictions, how can you be expected to be grounded in them?

2. Just Say No

This one seems easy enough, but can be quite difficult for many. And that’s okay! Most of the time saying yes leads to unexpected opportunities and fun experiences. But it can also be a detriment to your mental health if you feel that you’re saying it too frequently or being taken advantage of. This is when a simple no can be extremely powerful. It’s not rude, and it doesn’t mean you’re incapable. In fact, it shows just how capable you are of setting healthy boundaries for yourself! Next thing you know you’ll be rattling off Brené Brown quotes and going on self-help retreats in the desert.

3. Speak Up

Next time you feel uneasy, or think that a conversation or situation is heading in the wrong direction, stop for a moment. There’s a reason you’re feeling this way, and you shouldn’t just dismiss it. If it’s appropriate to speak up and voice what’s bothering you, do so. Sometimes, honoring your truth has to mean acting on that truth as well. You don’t have to say things in a perfectly eloquent way either— you’re human. Just be honest in the moment. In the long run, it will feel so much better than going over it in your mind hours later when the opportunity has passed.

4. Go For What You Want

If you’re feeling stuck or unhappy in your career, relationship, or any other sphere of your life, ask yourself this question: Is this really what I want? Knowing what you want is half the battle! Once you’re clear on this, it becomes a lot easier to communicate, plan, and problem solve. It can be sobering to admit to yourself what you actually want and need, but ultimately worth it. Every step you take to honor your truth will start to connect back to your goal, which will undoubtedly give you a sense of purpose and satisfaction.

5. Review Your Friends List

Friendships are extremely important to us as humans and can bring so much color and joy to your world. In the same way, the wrong friendships can wreak havoc on your life. If there’s a particular person in your circle that perpetuates drama or brings you down, don’t be afraid to start emotionally and physically distancing yourself. Your friends are an extension of your own values and beliefs, and are there to uplift and support you. Life is too short for fake friends. Luckily you’re an adult and don’t have to invite the entire class to your birthday party!

I hope this list allows you to examine what you are actively doing in your life to honor your truth. It’s easy to ignore our inner voices, because facing the truth can just be plain scary. But with a little practice it will get easier, and your life will continue to bloom in new ways. Staying true to yourself always pays off.

February 26, 2021February 26, 2021

How Do You Combat Loneliness?

It seems that for almost a year now, we’ve all been living our lives in extremes. Either we’ve been cooped up with our families and roommates, or riding this pandemic out solo and dealing with the loneliness that can bring. Personally, I’ve experienced both sides of the coin. Last March I traveled home to Texas and lived in my childhood bedroom for five months, which was largely a blessing but at the same time felt like an unexpected career setback.

After things picked back up in LA I was thrilled to be working again, however as the excitement wore off I faced a new challenge: loneliness. My roommate was still living with her family and working from home, so for the first time I was getting a taste of what it’s like to live alone. In a normal world, I’d enjoy having my own space to come home to every night. But we are living in pandemic times, and that means that the level of social interaction I’d typically have was wiped away. It’s been several months now, and I’ve learned a few things along the way that have helped me cope with the loneliness of this time. Here are 5 practical tips that can get you out of your head and keep you busy, so those lonely thoughts don’t have a chance to take over.

1. Do Something Artistic

One thing that has kept me sane is giving myself new, creative activities to do. Whether that means redecorating your room, scrapbooking, or something completely outside the box is up to you! I recently bought a painting kit similar to a paint by number, just without the numbers. The painting is outlined on the canvas, and you can fill it in however you’d like. It’s fun, relaxing, and is sure to get your mind off your troubles, helping you to enjoy the time you’re spending by yourself.

2. Set Up Regular Zoom Dates With Your Friends And Family

This one is obvious, but probably the most important. Humans were built to live in tight-knit communities, which means that going without social interaction can really do a number on our caveman brains. It’s essential to our health and happiness to spend time with our loved ones, so it’s no wonder that loneliness has an impact on not just our emotions but our physical state as well. The next time you feel too busy to join that zoom call, remind yourself that talking with friends basically does the same thing for your wellbeing as choosing kale over pizza. Except it’s way more enjoyable.

3. Make A Schedule (And Stick To It!)

This one is harder for me to do, but when I have planned activities for myself I’ve found that I’m way less likely to feel lonely. If you’re keeping your mind and body busy, you simply don’t have the time to get bogged down in feelings. And busy doesn’t mean you’re constantly doing work— you should schedule fun activities for yourself as well. You could be busy strolling the park or grabbing ice cream. Just make a schedule or a list, and do it!

4. Learn Something New

I love learning new things, especially in fields that are totally foreign to me. There are so many free courses, podcasts, YouTube channels, and websites covering anything you could hope to learn. I’m a big fan of listening to a podcast with an interesting guest while I’m doing things around my apartment. Just hearing other people talk about things that they are passionate about can be a great way to get out of your own head, and there’s no better way to make your own personal world feel a bit bigger than by learning something new.

5. Get Out For A Walk

When in doubt…get out! Safely, of course. Put your headphones on and go to a park, a beach, or take a 10 minute walk around your neighborhood. Walking is great for your physical and mental health, and sometimes the simple act of changing your scenery can seriously change your mood. Hey, if it’s good enough for Einstein, it’s good enough for you.

There’s nothing wrong with feeling lonely, especially in the times we are currently living through. It sounds silly, but knowing you are not alone in your loneliness can also help. That is one thing that has given me a tiny bit of solace whenever I’ve started to feel sorry for myself. Much of the world is going through the exact same situation. So next time you catch yourself in a downward spiral, consider trying one of these tips!

February 15, 2021February 15, 2021

What You’re Missing at Target: 10 Self-Care Products to Brighten Your Day

Self-Care At Target | Carrie Ann Conversations

I’ve found that one of life’s simplest treasures can be a traipse around the aisles of Target. I always love being delighted by unexpected finds and taking home a new skincare product or pair of cute socks I wasn’t expecting; half the fun is getting to stumble upon something new that you know will make your whole day. We might not be able to get out as much anymore, but there are still plenty of Target treasures to brighten your routine and help you get a dose of self-love. Whether you’re craving a new scent, a more beautiful environment or an addition to your skincare, these undiscovered Target gems are sure to fit right into your self-care regimen.

1. Naturium Skincare

If you’re a Target fan and a skincare enthusiast like me, you’re going to want to see Naturium’s collection. Founded by skincare expert Susan Yara who runs the popular YouTube channel MixedMakeup, Naturium is affordable skincare at its best. Their products are paraben-free, fragrance-free, and cruelty-free, and they focus on important active ingredients that actually work. If you’ve got the basics down and want to take your routine up to the next level, I recommend trying one of their serums!

2. The Lip Bar Vegan Matte Liquid Lipstick

Sometimes self-care means popping on a bold lip and going about your day with that added boost of confidence and glamour (even if your day is just working from your couch). The Lip Bar has rave reviews for their matte liquid lipstick, which comes in 14 fun shades. As a bonus, you’d be supporting a black, female owned business!

3. Que Bella Witch Hazel Mask

Putting on a mask before you go to bed can feel like such a luxurious treat. And feeling fancy can cost you as little as $2! Our site editor, Becca, swears by this tea tree & witch hazel-infused mud mask. This great-smelling mixture is sure to clean out your pores and leave your skin feeling fresh.

4. Opalhouse Glass Jar Candle

Is this Target or Anthropologie? You wouldn’t be able to tell looking at this trendy, opalescent candle. Target’s Opalhouse candle collection comes in many scents and colors to complement any room and could be the perfect addition to your desk or nightstand.

5. Edison Bulb Metal Scent Warmer

If you don’t want to worry about flames, a scent warmer is a great alternative. This one looks like a cute lantern and is small enough to fit in any space while elevating your aesthetic and bathing your room in a soothing warm glow!

6. Stars Above Beautifully Soft Pajama Set

A nice pajama set can really make you feel like you’ve got your life together. This one says “I care about style, even when I’m not actually conscious”. It’s also extremely soft and comes in several colors, making it the perfect post-work reward anytime you’re craving a little self-care.

7. Fun Socks

One of my friends introduced me to a wall of socks at Target that are each $1.50 a pair and it was a game changer. They all have cute graphics and puns to match your personality; who wouldn’t smile at that?

8. Good & Gather Sparkling Water

Self Care Sparkling Water | Carrie Ann Conversations — *via Target*

Drinking water is basic self-care. But sometimes even remembering that can be difficult! If you’re into sparking water, I highly recommend the flavors from Good & Gather. You might think all types of sparkling waters are the same, but I swear there’s a difference! This kind somehow tastes smoother than LaCroix, and the ginger peach flavor is yummy.

9. Cupcakes and Cashmere Calendars

Self Care Journal | Carrie Ann Conversations — *via Target*

Self-care isn’t just naps and skincare; it can also mean helping yourself conquer the day in style. Getting your week planned out in writing can feel so rewarding! There’s nothing better than crossing things off of your to-do list. These pretty calendars from Cupcakes and Cashmere will help you do it in style!

10. Kristin Ess Hair Products

Self Care Flatiron | Carrie Ann Conversations — *via Target*

Kristin Ess is a celebrity hairstylist turned entrepreneur. Her eponymous hair care line offers high-end quality products and tools at Target prices! I love the curling wand, but am excited to try more of her styling products. The packaging is also super cute, which I am a sucker for.

In an era with so much stress and anxiety, being sure to take care of yourself has never been so crucial. Little things like a calming face mask or a cozy new set of loungewear can be a great way to add a bit of love and luxury and remind yourself that you’re worth taking special care of every day. I hope one of these unexpected finds will provide you with the perfect boost of self-care whenever you need it the most.

January 4, 2021February 10, 2021

5 Skin Care Tips for Sensitive Skin

CARRIE ANN CONVERSATIONS | Skin Care for Sensitive Skin

The phrase “self-care” has been popping up now more than ever as we collectively navigate our new normal in this pandemic. We’ve all needed to take moments for ourselves and our mental health, whether that be through meditation, journaling, exercise, etc. One simple thing that has brought me a sense of comfort is my nightly skin care regimen.

Having struggled with acne and rosacea since my pre-teen years, skin care has become an important part of my daily routine, and it’s only become more necessary in the pandemic. Like many, I’ve needed to wear a mask over my face for long periods of time, and I’m here to tell you that “maskne” is very real. If you’re battling irritated, sensitive skin because of your mask, or want to learn how to incorporate certain calming ingredients into your routine, read on!

Before we begin, I’d like to clarify that while I’m passionate about skin care and have experience using these products, I am not a doctor; if you have serious concerns or issues with your skins, you should always contact an expert for medical advice. That being said, let me walk you through some of the best skin care ingredients that are gentle yet effective for most skin types.

The Order Matters

Before we get into specific ingredients, I want to emphasize the importance of layering products in the correct order. In general, you want to go from the thinnest consistency to the thickest to avoid aggravating skin.

Here’s a basic order to stick with:

Oil-based cleanser or balm (if you’re wearing makeup or sunscreen)
Water-based cleanser (second cleanse to actually clean skin after taking makeup off)
Toner
Serum
Moisturizer

Next, here are the products I’d recommend for a skin care routine that covers all the bases and leaves your skin feeling clean and nourished.

Niacinamide

2020 is truly the year for niacinamide. Niacinamide isn’t exactly new but it’s being featured in more and more products this year, and for good reason. As a form of vitamin B3, niacinamide is known for being both gentle and anti-inflammatory. It’s wonderful for sensitive skin because it helps repair your skin’s protective barrier. Both oily and dry skin can also reap its benefits, as it tightens pores and locks in moisture. Niacinamide can be found in all types of products, but I like to make sure it’s in my moisturizer for the best effect. At night I use Olay’s Hungarian Water Essence Calming Facial Moisturizer. It has one of the most simple ingredient lists I have found and is fragrance free, which is always desirable if you’re working with sensitive skin.

Salicylic Acid

Anything with the word acid in it used to have me running. I thought all acids would essentially burn my sensitive skin. It turns out I was very wrong! Not only is salicylic acid one of the most tried and true skin care ingredients for unclogging pores, but it’s also anti-inflammatory. Using it in a wash is the one of the most gentle methods for clearing acne if your skin is easily irritated. My favorite salicylic acid product is CeraVe’s Renewing SA Cleanser; it’s affordable and kind to any skin type.

Retinoids

You’re probably thinking that a retinoid would wreak havoc on your already inflamed skin, but hear me out. Incorporating a retinoid into your nightly skin care routine just 3 times a week can tremendously improve adult acne, as well as fight wrinkles. Retinoids are a form of vitamin A that increase cell turnover in the skin. This means your skin will always look fresh and wrinkle free. However, not all retinoids are created equal. My skin has gotten used to Tretinoin, which is prescription strength retinoic acid. If you’re just delving into the world of retinoids, I recommend trying retinol first. It has a lower, more tolerable concentration of retinoic acid. You can also try bakuchiol, which is a plant extract that will deliver similar results without the irritation.

Plant-Derived Ingredients

Plants have been used to take care of skin ailments for centuries, so why mess with a good thing? Three of my favorite plant-derived ingredients are evening primrose oil, rosehip oil, and oats. Rosehip oil has vitamins, anti-inflammatory properties, and won’t break you out. I don’t use oils daily, but it can be a treat to put this on with a jade roller after applying moisturizer. Evening primrose oil and oats can both be calming to the skin. One of my favorite products for days where my skin feels dry and inflamed contains both! Dermalogica’s Ultra Calming Serum Concentrate is great if you’re experiencing rashes or chafing from your mask.

I’ve experimented with so many skin care products, but these are the ones I’ve found the most effective for calming, nourishing, and protecting sensitive skin. Improving the look and feel of your skin can sound like a frivolous goal, but I’ve realized that a consistent skincare routine is a powerful act of self-care. All of us lead busy lives, and taking care of ourselves is a way to ensure that we are in the best position to take care of others.

December 4, 2020February 10, 2021

How We Made ‘Dancing with the Stars’ in a Pandemic

Dancing with the Stars | Carrie Ann Inaba

If there’s one thing that has been getting me through this pandemic (besides quality time with loved ones), it’s entertainment. We’ve all needed a bit of levity in these unprecedented times, and thank goodness that taking a moment to escape into fantasy can be as simple as clicking a button. The entertainment industry has been hard at work to provide audiences with a sense of normalcy, but producing shows in the middle of a pandemic is anything but normal. As a production assistant (or PA) at Dancing with the Stars, I thought I’d walk you through what my not-so-typical day looks like.

As the Dancing with the Stars judges’ PA, my job is to make sure that Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli, and Derek Hough are on schedule and have everything they need for a smooth day. I work closely with our wonderful judge producer to stay on top of meetings, interviews, and anything else that might arise.

The first step of my day is to check in with our COVID officers, who need to verify that your COVID test was negative and take your temperature before they can let you into the studio.

Dancing with the Stars- Behind the Scenes in a Pandemic — My show day look complete with a face shield and snapchat filter

Next, you’re given a wristband, your golden ticket to walk about the building without security tackling you. It’s far from an all-access pass, however: The show divides employees into different “zones” to limit unnecessary exposure between people. If you’re “Zone A”, like me, you are one of the lucky few that can watch the show from inside the stage.

After getting my wristband I head up to Dancing with the Stars’ production office, which looks a bit different this year. You can’t exactly walk around freely or keep your door open as in previous years. Gone are the days of sharing fun snacks in the kitchen or communal coffee pots. Can you imagine touching the same coffee pot as 50 other people now? Nightmare.

Next comes everyone’s favorite part of the day — getting COVID tested! The COVID logistics team has the daunting job of making sure hundreds of people get tested on time to keep production moving smoothly. Without them, we have no show!

Before and after the Dancing with the Stars goes live, my main job is to keep the judges on time for their meetings and interviews. Most of these now take place on Zoom or FaceTime via our trusty iPads. Usually our social media team will also make a socially distant appearance to get some behind-the-scenes content (namely, Bruno and Derek filming TikToks). During the hours leading up to the show I also make sure the judges get their lunches.

Our craft services department (or Crafty, as we affectionately call it) has seen a lot of updates this year to keep everyone safe. Lunches and snacks used to be served buffet style, a concept that sends shivers down my spine now. Again production has come up with a creative solution, packaging our meals and snacks separately and handing them out to-go style. After you get your meal, you have to stay outside in the designated eating /drinking zones until you’re done.

Once it’s time for Dancing with the Stars to start filming, I make sure the judges are settled on stage. Since there are unmasked dancers and judges around, the HMU (Hair and Makeup) and Wardrobe teams and I have to make sure we are wearing face shields and N95 masks for extra protection. Then comes the actual best part of my day — getting to watch the show!

When the day is over we are exhausted, but we’re all proud of ourselves for pulling together and making things work even in the midst of such challenging circumstances. Through all of the changes, live TV is still a fun, very unique experience. I’m so grateful to be working with such a dedicated team. I hope that our appreciation to be back doing the things we love translates to the viewers at home, because it has never felt more important to bring joy to your screens.

To read more Dancing with the Stars behind-the-scenes coverage, you can find Carrie Ann Inaba’s DWTS Diaries here.