Wellness is a major buzzword these days, but it can mean a little something different to everyone. Does it stand for self-care and restoration, or is it more about strength and endurance? So, we created a series breaking down the healthy habits of local influencers and entrepreneurs, allowing them to define what wellness means on a personal level.
You could call Alika Ray a morning person. At the start of each day, the dancer, actress and model thoughtfully carves out time to exercise gratitude and set intentions. She mixes up a glass of Super You by Moon Juice, which she finds at the The Joule’s Hotel Shop by 4510/SIX, crediting the adaptogenic herbs for starting her morning off on the right foot.
“Ideally, I have time for reflection and meditation,” says Ray. “I light Palo Santo, and then start by writing 10 things I’m most grateful for, followed by meditation readings.” Currently on her reading list: The Book of Awakening by Mark Nepo and Journey to the Heart by Melody Beattie. Here, Ray walks us through her wellness essentials, from sound baths at The Refuge Meditation to dance cardio classes in Casa Linda.
Along with your morning ritual, how do you set yourself up for making healthy choices all day long?
I drink warm lemon water first thing when I wake. I make sure I stock up on healthy foods and snacks so that they are my only options to eat. I drink lots of water, take deep breaths, and practice kindness and gratitude.
View this post on Instagram🌞 live life in warm yellows 🌞 in a dress named Streets of Tulum 🌅@shop_beatnik 🌻 @jennybirddd
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How do you keep mindfulness a priority all through out the day, aside from your morning routine?
I have a membership at The Refuge Meditation near Fair Park. This studio space saved me after a difficult 2018 and continues to be a huge influence in my life. From therapeutic yoga, meditation, sound baths, and workshops, this is the place. Every human in Dallas should take a class there!
Sound bath?! Intriguing. Tell us more and what benefits do you get out of the experience?
Sound baths are my favorite! I call it my recalibration. As you lay down, a practitioner plays Tibetan bowls, gongs, shamanic drums, chimes, and uses their voice to take you into a state of deep relaxation. The sound vibrates through your whole body. It’s good for stress, anxiety, healing, and self-discovery. You will float away after you experience one of these.
What keeps you motivated to implement will power and healthy choices each and every day?
Well, it’s a part of my job [as a model]. And I have good days and bad. If I’m on set, sometimes there is an endless supply of treats in your face at all times and it’s really difficult. I know that if I start on the sugar train, I’m not getting off. I try to remember how crappy I will feel soon after. If I eat badly, I eat badly. I don’t beat myself up about it, but I’ll do better the next day.
If you’re not at The Refuge and need a more energized, cardio sweat session, what’s your go-to?
I have a dance background so anything that gets me dancing! Cristin Caulfield is an amazing instructor here in Dallas and teaches cardio dance classes currently at Preston Hollow Dance. By August of 2019 she is opening Frame Dance Fitness in Casa Linda Plaza, which will have those classes as well as mini trampoline and dance-inspired toning classes. You will even find me teaching there!
