Shades of Beauty: Embracing Self-Care with Lizet Upia

In the latest episode of “Shades of Beauty,” hosts Najah and Zashia dive into the topic of self-care and its important role in mental health. Najah opens up about her personal self-care practices, revealing, “Self-care for me looks like saying no.” She emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries, explaining that this practice has been essential in maintaining her mental health. “Saying no” is Najah’s way of preserving her energy and ensuring she remains true to herself amidst the pressures of life.

Zashia resonated with Najah’s sentiment, sharing her own journey with boundaries. “In my 20’s, I was a yes woman,” Zashia recalls. “But if they care about me, they will understand that this saying no is for me.” This candid discussion highlights the evolution of their self-care routines and the necessity of prioritizing one’s well-being.

Joining them in this heartfelt conversation was actress and self-care advocate Lizet Upia. Lizet, who has embarked on a significant journey of self-discovery, shares her inspiring story of transformation. Originally from Brooklyn, Lizet moved to Los Angeles to pursue her dreams,  “I’m not just Lizet from Brooklyn, but I know what I was meant to do,” she reflects, revealing the profound self-exploration her move ignited.

As an Afro-Indigenous Latina actress, Lizet has faced and overcome numerous barriers, particularly regarding her accent. “I went deep into our culture and embraced who we are,” she explains, detailing her journey of embracing her Taino heritage. “I believe that holding the Taino Indians upright feels right to me.” This connection to her ancestors has been a cornerstone of Lizet’s self-care, offering her a sense of identity and strength.

Lizet also shares her self-care practices, which include spa visits, meditation, and journaling. She describes these rituals as “mothering herself,” a way to process and nurture her energy and emotions. This holistic approach to self-care showcases the importance of checking in with oneself regularly.

In addition to discussing self-care, Lizet talks about her latest project, the remake of the iconic cult classic “Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead.” She praises the cast and crew, highlighting the positive energy on set and her dedication to honoring the original while bringing something new to the script.

The episode concludes with a fun segment called “Shade or Praise,” where the hosts and Lizet weigh in on various topics, from shaving one’s head for a dream role to skydiving. The lively discussion among the ladies made for an engaging and enlightening episode, leaving viewers inspired by Lizet’s journey and eager to see more from this talented actress.