smartmouthleila
Her
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Latest Posts by smartmouthleila
If this were a werewolf book, she would be with all three of them. She needs all three of them to be a whole and balanced woman.
Do you ever feel like SHIT? Like life is moving so fast, and you’re stuck, tired, or completely drained? cuz same 🙋🏻♀️. That’s why I started looking into Japanese and Chinese habits—because I'm searching for slow down type of lifestyle, finding balance, and creating small moments of peace in the dawm chaos. Now, I know some of y’all will say, 'It’s overrated, you’re just obsessed with China or Japan,' but hear me out these habits aren’t about trends—they’re rooted in centuries and they’ve genuinely helped me improve both physically and mentally. If you’re ready to stop just surviving and start thriving, keep reading. These little changes might just change your life too.
Little Habits, Big Glow: Japanese & Chinese Traditions That Changed My Life
First off, warm water in the MORNING. I used to roll out of bed and go straight for coffee or cold ass water cuz my throat is DRYYYY , and honestly, my body hated me for it fr. But then I read about how in Chinese medicine, drinking warm water first thing in the morning is seen as a way to wake up your body gently. And let me tell you, IT WORK. No bloating, no sluggishness—just a simple, calming way to start the day. Sometimes I add a slice of lemon, and it feels like I’m doing something kind for my body before I even check my phone
Two Ikigai.( I talked Abt Ikigai and how to achieve this concept click here!) Japanese concept changed the way I see my day-to-day life. It’s basically finding purpose in the little things—like, not waiting for some huge life-changing moment to feel fulfilled. I used to put so much pressure on myself, thinking I needed to achieve these massive goals to be happy. But Ikigai taught me to slow down and find joy in small things, like enjoying my morning tea or journaling. It’s a game-changer for anyone who feels like they’re always chasing something bigger.
Another thing I’ve started doing is Tai Chi or qing gong. I know I know—it looks slow and kind of boring, but hear me out. It’s like moving meditation, and if you’re someone who struggles with anxiety (like meeey), this will center you like nothing else. It’s not about burning calories or anything like that; it’s about connecting your body and mind in the most peaceful way. Even just 10 minutes a day leaves me feeling lighter and more focused. (Click here to watch a video of it) When I first started, I thought, 'This is way too slow for me.' But then something clicked. The slowness is the point. It forces you to focus on your breathing, your posture, and every little movement. It’s like a moving meditation that clears your mind while strengthening your body.
© bloomzone
Be silent my beating heart
Suddenly awake and super aware of my reality
With gritted teeth and eyes burning I will win.
On calm breath and a steady hand I will win.
I can't stand a dumb biddy and Rowan is the dumbest biddy of them all. What in the world was that ending
Your work is your creative outlet, that's why you feel energised and open to it.
Why is everyone talking about how hot James McAvoy is, where are the think pieces dissecting the absolute train smash that movie was. So many unnecessary bad choices by the hunted and poor Ant at the end...
I'm litty, I'm pretty, I'm running this city
I don't see no competitors
I am in this state of perpetual fight or flight. Survival mode.
Leveling up while still in school.
Amal Clooney
the perfect embodiment of feminine & masculine energy.
Feminine in her mannerisms and how she presents herself but rightfully masculine in her career, Amal Clooney is a beautiful representation of what it means to balance your feminine and masculine energy.
who is she?
Amal Clooney, now 44 years old, is an international lawyer, human rights activist, mother, and wife to the famous George Clooney. When she’s not representing powerful clients before international courts, she is advising political governments and individuals on legal issues. She is a brilliant woman known for her high profile cases, accomplishments, husband, and fashion. She is described as “a brilliant legal mind” and “knows her brief inside out”. Her accolades make her the ideal role model and inspiration for young women.
her background
Amal is a Lebanese-British lawyer and activist specializing in international law and human rights. She was raised in England by her educated father and entrepreneurial mother. Following high school, she studied at Oxford University and graduated with her bachelor’s before attending New York University of Law where she got her Master of Law degree. 
influenced by strong women
Amal is a product of her environment. As mentioned, she was raised by an entrepreneurial mother. Her mother, Baria Alamuddin, is an award winning journalist. Baria has interviewed some of the most notable and prominent figures in the world. Amal’s mother and grandmother both are strong supporters of women empowerment and education which you can see in Amal’s philanthropic work. Another example of being influenced by strong women is when she worked in the office of Sonia Sotomayor, the first woman of color and Latina to serve on the supreme court. She even had the pleasure of working with the judge for the United States Court of Appeals and a NYU Law faculty member. It’s obvious that Amal was fortunate enough to have examples of strong and powerful women not only in her home but in the workplace.
personality
I admire Amal for her intelligence, wit, and ability to keep most of her personal life private. Not much is said about her private life, but colleagues have mentioned that Amal has a ‘commanding presence”. This is obvious when watching her interviews — her energy fills the room. She never overshares or says more than necessary, but when she does speak it’s worth listening to. As you probably guessed, she is an intelligent woman. Fluent in English, French and Arabic. Her cleverness and well articulated speeches immediately captivates those around her.
love life
One person who was captivated by her mind is her husband George Clooney. In the world of law, she was already a celebrity but became one in the literal sense when she became involved with the well known bachelor, George Clooney. George had a long history of dating gorgeous, famous women but never settled down. He even publicly said he would never get married... this was until he met Amal in July of 2013, in Lake Como Italy.
Similar to Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, the two met through a mutual friend. This is why your connections, network, and personal brand matters — those can open more doors for you than a dating app can. While most women would fall at the feet of George, Amal didn’t. In fact, he chased her for months before they became serious. He claims he fell for her because of intelligence and personality, but I assume the chase also had a huge impact. Amal is highly intelligent and understands seduction. She knows if she were like every other woman, she would get treated like every other woman. Instead, she stayed committed to her career and mission while making time for him when she could.
In 2014, the two love birds became engaged only after a year of dating. The Clooney’s were married in Sept of 2014 by no other than the former mayor of Rome. Their beautiful multi-million dollar wedding was in Venice, Italy and was one to remember. After they said “I do”, the couple moved to a multimillion-dollar estate built on a small island in London before having their twins in 2017. Together the couple committed to philanthropic work for women’s and human’s rights. It’s rumored that they’ve donated over $22M to a variety of charities. In 2016, her and George Clooney founded Clooney Foundation for Justice. She has partnered with several other charities, such as Aurora Humanitarian Initiative, and has her own scholarship program to send young girls to college.
awards & achievements
I would love to end this off not talking about Amal’s love life but the amazing things she’s accomplished. Her list of her achievements and awards are way too long to cover so I’ll mention the few I thought were most notable. Amal was awarded the most fascinating person in 2014, the World Economic Forum’s 2016 Young Global Leader, and Time magazine’s Woman of the Year in 2022. Her fight for human rights has made her a noble activist, leader, and role model. She uses her celebrity status to shed light on political issues that may have otherwise been thrown under the rug.
Amal has shown us that you can be a feminine family woman while being successful at your career. Her brilliant mind has captivated the red carpet, magazines, and one of Hollywood’s best actors. Amal is an inspiring mother, wife, and activists. Her poise, style, and grace are just a few elements to her feminine charm. Her healthy balance of masculine energy is portrayed in her ability to relentlessly peruse her career, fight for meaningful causes, and excel in a highly competitive field.
X, @luxuryandbrown | You might like: Meghan Markle: Femininity Breakdown
mat workouts for when you don’t feel like standing
8 minute pelvic floor workout by eleni fit
10 minute full body by growwithjo
10 minute back workout by pamela reif
10 minute glute bridge burnout by pamela reif
10 minute core by madfit
10 minute full body by pamela reif
10 minute glute bridge burnout by madfit
10 minute abs and yoga by madfit
12 minute booty workout by move with nicole
15 minute full body slow strength by pamela reif
15 minute slow and on the floor workout by madfit
15 minute abs and booty by madfit
15 minute abs and yoga by madfit
17 minute pelvic floor workout by daisy keech
20 minute thigh workout by emi wong
20 minute slow and on the floor workout by madfit
20 minute full body victoria’s secret workout by mary braun
20 minute pilates core workout by eleni fit
20 minute abs by caroline girvan
20 minute lower body pilates by madeleine abeid
20 minute abs and booty by madfit
20 minute abs by madfit
24 minute full body sculpt by coach kel
25 minute barre and mat pilates by fitbymik
25 minute hourglass pilates by madeleine abeid
25 minute full body workout by emkfit
30 minute abs and thighs workout by emi wong
30 minute abs and booty by growwithjo
30 minute pilates by mizi
30 minute beginner pilates by move with nicole
30 minute pilates core workout by move with nicole
30 minute pilates for weight loss by moving mango pilates
30 minute full body pilates by move with nicole
30 minute full body pilates by move with nicole
30 minute full body pilates by move with nicole
30 minute full body pilates by move with nicole
30 minute abs by caroline girvan
30 minute hourglass pilates by madeleine abeid
30 minute beginner floor cardio by ps fit
30 minute abs by madfit
35 minute abs and booty pilates by move with nicole
35 minute full body pilates by move with nicole
35 minute full body pilates by move with nicole
40 minute full body workout by mizi
40 minute full body pilates by madeleine abeid
I'm crying real tears you guys🥲that ending😱wtf!? Neuman!? Grace!? Kimikooooooo!!!!!! Noo noooooo😭😭😭😭😭
Wtf happened to Ashley?! Ryan!? I am literally screaming because wtf, wtf, wtf
Watching the hunger games and seeing Hughi kill Rue.🥲
Literally screamed when that first frame came on my scream. He is so hot and I love when he makes crazy eyes at people when he is about to do something completely insane.
This is cinematic art. Sorry, I don’t make the rules.
THE BOYS 04x04
I think Portia sees most of herself in Penelope and she just never thought herself lucky enough to be loved.
Am I the only one who cannot get into their romance because of Colin's uncanny Valley look?
The Nara Smiths of this World
I'd like to begin with saying in no way, shape, or form, will I be bashing the beautiful Black woman, wife and mother, Nara Smith. I actually aspire to be like her.
I also prefer content and media (both digital and physical) that cater to the life I have been creating for myself:
Led by God
With a God-fearing man (soon to be my fiancé - then husband, God-willing),
As a wife and mother,
While having the time and ease to do things that bring me peace and happiness like basking in the sun, working out, creating dinner experiences, rolling in academia - simultaneously having a career with a lower tempo, hints my transition from one career field to another (another post for another day).
I love watching her content, especially all of the dishes she makes from scratch.
But what upsets me, are the Black women that make a mockery of her lifestyle and make the excuse like "who wants to be a traditional wife" or "ain't nobody got time for all of that" and people saying that her lifestyle is unrealistic.
Lets be real.
A lot of women who bash Nara Smith are jealous.
Nara Smith is a young woman who is also a model, married, with two children and a third on the way.
Besides being a model, what about my previous statement is unrealistic or unattainable?
"Well who makes everything from scratch like that?!"
Everyone outside of the United States of America, darling.
I implore all the women who read my blog to please travel outside of the United States. Everyone makes everything from scratch and not only is it healthier, it taste amazing.
My first experience in Europe was the Summer of 2017, as an intern at the University of Science and Technology in Bydgoszcz, Poland.
While interning, I also traveled to Germany and Amsterdam.
During my tenure in Europe, I walked everywhere, used public transportation (it was clean, on time and efficient if I may add), went to people's homes where they made their authentic dishes and simple ones from scratch - while simultaneously losing 15lbs, and not on purpose.
Making your desired entrees from scratch versus using products that are processed and already made with preservatives are better for your health. Not only do you taste the difference but you will feel the difference.
Back to the point of women being jealous of Nara Smith's more traditional lifestyle and leisure:
The unfortunate truth of this - speaking as a Black woman with real Black Women experiences - so many Black women are truly perturbed by Nara's choice to take the time to cater to her children, household and husband as she does.
I think most of this disturbance comes from the fact that as Black women, we're told from early youth to work so hard and earn so many accolades where we do not need a man/husband and to not submit to the idea of motherhood and marriage until you receive every possible degree, award and accomplishment - which turns into us working just as hard as men to achieve a certain status, settling down in our mid 30s, yikes!
I have recently transitioned from one career field to another due to my desire to not only become a wife, but a mother.
But not an overworked wife who does not have time to cater to herself, household and husband, but a mother who has the time to be as hands-on as possible, make dinner, be a part of the Parent Teacher Association (PTA), etc.
This was my reality as a child. My parents were married; My father had a career that pulled him away sometimes but he was the providing a comfortable life for my mother, sister and I. My mother chose to have an at-home daycare so she can make my sister and I breakfast in the morning, be home to receive us after school, help us with our lessons, and put us to sleep. She was intentional with her career choice so she could cater to herself, take care of her home and her family.
And there is nothing wrong with a woman choosing to still work to have some independence, but choosing a career that is not as demanding that she sacrifices her family for it.
I brought all of this up due to conversations I had with women in my previous line of work who tried to convince me that I could "have it all" as they like to say: meaning that I could have the demanding career and title, be married, and have children.
Anyone who knows me personally, knows that I am extremely observant. During the last four years in my career field, I paid attention and listened quite carefully to the women who had children in both orthodox and unorthodox manners. The women who were married, with a child or children said all of the following:
"There was a time I spent a year away from my child, leaving them at three months of age."
"I was on my feet working just to go home and still be working."
"I got divorced because he couldn't understand that I wanted a certain level of success and being at home would not push me towards that goal."
"I don't even have time for myself."
"I have missed so many important moments."
Mind you, there's more. And I'm not saying that you cannot be married, with children and have a demanding career. I just believe it is irresponsible for older career woman to perpetuate the narrative that you can have 100% of everything all at the same time - when it's not true. Something or someone is going to be neglected.
So when I chose to transition out of my previous occupation, all of these women kept trying to persuade me to stay, but then I looked at their lives, it was not what I wanted:
Woman 1: Divorced with a boyfriend, three children (two different fathers) - spent months at a time away from her children, struggles with being feminine; Top of the food chain at work.
Woman 2: Married closer to 40, one child, lives a flight away from her husband to keep her demanding career, spends weeks away from her son.
Woman 3: Divorced, two children, sleeping around (with people we know) and the joke of our department, falls in love fast, one son has joined a gang, ex-husband is in-and-out of jail; Has worked for our organization for 15 years.
Woman 4: Left her newborn after two months to take a position in another country for a year, marriage suffered tremendously, also another "big dog" for the organization.
Now, as a woman who wants the lifestyle I already described in the paragraphs at the beginning of my piece, are these stories that I would want to emulate?
ABSOLUTELY NOT!
I won't go as far as saying that this is every woman's reality who has a demanding career, but even the women who stay married and have children have also told me that their marriage suffered tremendously and there is a closeness they lack with their children.
And again, that statement is not for the totality of working woman, but it's a shared experience of most.
When I told multiple women that I am ready to be a wife and a mother I was told I would regret it.
I don't and I won't.
I've had a job since I was 16; I have dated, traveled, lived in the city and suburbs on my own, and my truest desire is to live a life of leisure and peace, with my future husband and children.
So, for the girlies who are ready to settle down, leave the busy careers behind, do it!
Side bar - I just turned 26, I want to have my first child before 30 (and after I am married of course).
And do not, I repeat, DO NOT allow people's opinions, especially your Black female peers (it is what it is), to dissuade you from the lifestyle you truly desire, because they are the same women who complain about how miserable they are because of their choices, and misery loves company.
Choose your family, choose love, choose yourself.
With Love,
Sarah Chanel
#spoiler alert: So I'm watching lessons in chemistry and I am at the beginning of episode 2. I love their chemistry so I get curious because from the snippets I see from tick tock she is raising a child alone and I am not a patient person, I search what happens to him and I oop🥲the vulture review broke my heart
No cause #Saltburn😅😅😅😂
The things we say to hurt each other in order to protect ourselves sear themselves into the memory bank of us. They Taint each laugh, smile and touch. The things we say to hurt each other in order to protect against heartbreak break me down. I say them and wish you would be deaf in that second before. I say them only to barricade myself in, I say them to keep the enemy called hurt out. My heart is small and fragile, it takes me a millennium just to get over the little needless pains. I hurt so deeply my entire being flickers in and out of reality. A mirage of a person neither here nor there. I hate those things I said to you, but I was only protecting myself from certain death. I was only doing what came naturally. I see now that those paths I can no longer take, I am forging new roads in the dark places and spreading light there.
The words we say to each other in order to protect ourselves no longer exist. I close my mouth and listen, I analyse and am helpful. How can we move forward. The words we say to each other in order to nurture each other strengthen my heart. It burns with fire. I am.
I agree 100 percent, they need to pay because all she did was give them exactly what they wanted and it's still not enough. They literally just want to consume her whole and it's getting on my nerves.
jiwon is literally innocent in all of this...
her dad is the only good person in her life and he died
her best friend... has been plotting her downfall from the jump. a true OP... like she was TAKING A NAP ON THE BUS nd sis sat down next to her... stole her wallet and then pretended to find it and come to her rescue.
jiwon needs to hook up with my girl from the glory cus the revenge needs to be even more dramatic. we gotta stop pulling punches. put them hoes in the ground
It turns to ash in my mouth.
Longing for a life well lived.
I feel as though I had been in a daze. Sleepwalking, aware but not completely in control. The scientists were right and I hate that they were. Getting a good 7 to 8 hours of sleep is truly the way. It fixed my eating, my skin and most of all my energy levels. How spectacularly accurate their information was. So it makes me want to follow more of their advice. Stick to the road travelled.