Healthy Hairdresser Hero: Kelsey Higginbotham

Like many hairdressers, Fuel educator Kelsey Higginbotham finds that one of the toughest challenges in this business is carving out time to relax.

“I have been trying to make sure I take alone time to do something that makes me happy,” says Higginbotham, who has five years in the industry as a full-time stylist and also is an educator for this month’s Healthy Hairdresser sponsor, Fuel. “It’s a way to clear my mind and decompress.”

Higginbotham enjoys a glass of wine after a long shift but says she’s really bad at pampering herself.

When I do, I so enjoy it,” she says. “Note to self: pamper more!” We interrupted Higginbotham’s down time to ask her to share a little more with MODERN.

Healthy role model: Eden Sassoon is such an inspiration—she is ripped, healthy and happy.
Best-tasting healthy food: Veggies and dip.
Guilty pleasure: Bad reality shows—I can binge watch with the best of them. Favorite exercise: Yoga. The stretch is so good after a week of being on my feet all day.
Favorite time of day to exercise: I try to get it done in the morning. Especially on days off, it’s a great way to start the day.
Body position you’d like to see hairdressers correct: The hunchback. Our chairs move for a good reason, and we should utilize that more. Working shoes: I wear what is comfy and love a good pair of boots!
Journal? Meditate? Pray? All of the above. I have journaled for as long as I can remember. I was a writer/editor in my first life, so it’s in my blood. Where you’d love to be right now: At home, somewhere tropical or on stage.
You save money on: Clothes. I’m such a bargain shopper. Most of my clothes are bound to get haircolor on them. Way to recruit new clients: I have the best clients who spread the word and bring me amazing referrals.
Your health role model: Anyone who lives a truly happy and healthy life. I follow a lot of yogis for healthy moments.
Your emotional rock: Chris, my boyfriend. He has been so good to me and so supportive of my crazy goals and travel schedule.
Your professional mentors: Joseph and Tonya Cuozzo are two of my favorite artists, and they’re generous teachers.