The Weekly Guide V.2
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Time to read 5 min
©doranpoma
Over the last few weeks, I've focused more on rituals. Morning routines and nightly rituals help boost my mood and my productivity. It is amazing how a few things added to my day have made all the difference. Sharing those and a few new things around my little neighborhood in Monterey, California, that brought joy.
The OneLeaf App
I started this hypnosis meditation app a month ago, and DAMN, it made a huge boost in my mood. When I first started, I did it in the morning under RED LED, but lately I switched to evenings. Either way, I noticed my mood boosted, productivity skyrocketed, and my anxiety became more manageable. The app has targeted programs that take about a week to complete with 20-minute-a-day sessions to help with things like boosting confidence, quit smoking, being less financially impulsive, improve sleep and more. $68 for a year subscription READ ABOUT THE SCIENCE
What Is In My Cart This Week
(PLATED) Skin Science
This once-a-day skin serum IMPROVED my skin so much that I've had people ask what I had done! I'm obsessed and wrote all about it here.
©doranpoma
VI Peel
It is peel season and I went for the VI Peel to kick it off. I LOVE the results! Check out my week long journey here.
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Good Sleep
I'm always on the hunt for a good night's sleep. Recently, I started using this I wrote more here.CarePod Humidifier to help. For years now I've slept with a humidifier but keeping it clean and not spreading mold worries me. I love the Carepod because it can go in the dishwasher to sanitize and is so easy to keep clean. The mist is super fine and doesn't make me feel like I'm drowning. Overall, this is a great addition to your skincare and sleep routine. I wrote more here.
Book Club
What I read this week.
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Genre: Fairy Smut (Fantasy Romance) - Key Themes: Enemies to lovers, fantasy worlds, survival, sacrifice
- Vibe: Dark, emotional, with undertones of longing and sensuality
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
- Perfect For: Escaping reality, lovers of steamy fantasy, binge reading a series
A friend insisted that I read this, and she was right. The series was so good. I haven't ventured off to the other worlds but I might. So many people have popped into the shop and noticed me reading it, which started so many great conversations. Definitely worth the read--even better if you have a friend who is totally into it. All mine are, and my sister just started!
- Genre: Nonfiction, Self-Help
- Key Themes: Feminism, patriarchy, the seven deadly sins, personal growth
- Vibe: Reflective, empowering, intellectually stimulating
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5)
- Perfect For: Deep thinkers, those interested in social justice and self-reflection, readers looking to challenge societal norms
I don't remember who originally recommended this book but I saw a friend reading it on social media and felt like it was a sign I needed it. Wow. The author goes over all of the 7 deadly sins and how that has really defined our mindsets as women. The book pushed me to think outside of society norms and more what my own beliefs were. What do I value in others and myself due to my own lived experiences. It is a great book for any woman who has recently found herself in a bit of lost feeling.
- Genre: Thriller, Horror
- Key Themes: Isolation, supernatural forces, survival
- Vibe: Tense, eerie, with chilling suspense
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
- Perfect For: Fans of spooky mysteries, autumn nights, and edge-of-your-seat thrillers
It is spooky season and I'm all in. This was my first thriller supernatural book like this and I have to say, I really liked it. This book came in a Once Upon A Bookclub Halloween box last year. They just realeased their boxes for this year. The gifts were cute and a fun way to read the book. If you have a struggling reader in your family the teen and young adult boxes are a perfect gift.
Shop Now for the Audio, Kindle, or Hard Copy.
The High Five Habit by Mel Robbins
- Genre: Nonfiction, Self-Help
- Key Themes: Self-empowerment, positivity, habit formation
- Vibe: Uplifting, motivational, practical
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5/5)
- Perfect For: Anyone looking to boost their self-esteem, develop positive habits, and enhance daily motivation
After the year I experienced in 2023, I've really leaned into positive hobbies. So I try to read an uplifting book each week. This was a quick and easy read that packed a big high five. If you're looking for an instant boost of self-care this is a great book to start with.
The Ever Queen by J.J. Andrews
- Genre: Fantasy, Romance
- Key Themes: Power struggles, magical realms, forbidden love
- Vibe: Enchanting, epic, with a mix of romance and adventure
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
- Perfect For: Fans of epic fantasy, lovers of magical romance, and readers craving an immersive escape
Another friend recommended the first book in this series and I really enjoyed it so on to the second and third I go ! A quick read that was magical but had some heavy undertones of abusive family structures. Overall, I liked it and am just finishing up the third book.
Pink Glass House s by Asha Elias
- Genre: Literary Fiction
- Key Themes: Social dynamics, family secrets, personal identity
- Vibe: Introspective, poignant, with a touch of mystery
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
- Perfect For: Readers who enjoy character-driven stories, exploring complex relationships, and uncovering hidden truths
I received this book complimentary from Libro.fm and finished it in 3 days! It was a fast and engaging read/listen. I really thought it was ending differently so it was a surprising (pleasantly) end.
Around Monterey
Ad Astra Bakery
Lately, I eat here almost every day. The lemonade and what Olivia calls "decorated focaccia" which is the pizza daily special, is my go-to. I also get a bit happy whenever they have lemon meringue pie! Take home is the milk bread that lasts me half a week in tomato sandwiches and french toast. It is a must visit.
©doranpoma
Pop over to Carmel-by-the-Sea
Jenni Kayne Is Thriving!
Carmel is starting to get so many big brands moving in! Jenni Kayne is one of the latest. They are located next to Cos Bar and carry home + clothing in the small shop. I popped in a few weeks ago and came out with a bunch of sweaters that are starting to get some use with the cooler evenings.
Jenni Kayne Sweater, Mother Denim Jeans for Petites
Final Thoughts
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doran poma
I'm Doran Poma, a licensed esthetician and skincare specialist dedicated to helping you achieve healthy, radiant skin. At Haute Beauty Guide, you'll find expert skincare advice, product reviews, facial treatment insights, anti-aging tips, and beauty recommendations backed by professional experience. Whether you're building a skincare routine or exploring the latest treatments, I'm here to guide your journey to your best skin.
