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Healthy Hairdresser Hero: Lindsay Skalon
"Living in Chicago makes us hibernate all winter, which can lead to a case of seasonal blues," says Lindsay Skalon, nominated as a Healthy Hairdresser Hero by our March Healthy Hairdresser sponsor, America's Beauty ...
March 1, 2016
Lindsay Skalon, Member of Cosmetologists Chicago, Esthetician and Makeup Artist
3 min to read
"Living in Chicago makes us hibernate all winter, which can lead to a case of seasonal blues," says Lindsay Skalon, nominated as a Healthy Hairdresser Hero by our March Healthy Hairdresser sponsor, America's Beauty Show/Cosmetologists Chicago.
To fight back, Skalon started a Facebook group for Zano team members and their friends to commit to some type of exercise every day during the cold months. They quickly accumulated 200 members of a fun group they titled “Suck It Up Buttercup,” and everyone got motivated! They continue to post selfies showing the sweat, smiles and satisfaction that comes from a good workout.
“People are getting support from other people they didn’t even know before,” Skalon says. “For me, this has been both emotionally and physically gratifying.” Here are more of Skalon’s Healthy Hairdresser facts and philosophies:
Who looks up to you as a healthy role model?
My co-workers! Many of them have come to me for advice on fitness. I have a passion for natural health as well, so they ask me for holistic remedies.
What healthy food do you think tastes best?
Nutritional yeast is the best for guilt-free “cheese” sauces—vegan nachos are amazing.
What’s your worst health habit?
Sometimes I push myself too hard and forget to listen to my body. Too much of a good thing is not good.
What changes have you made to be healthier?
About seven years ago, I hit a rough patch and started walking/running for therapy. I couldn’t even run a mile, but a year later I ran my first Chicago Marathon in just over four hours. Then I incorporated yoga into my life, and it was like a light switch turned on. I trusted myself for the first time, and with my new-found, clear, compassionate mind, my career took off.
What is the best workout song to listen to while you work out?
Motley Crue’s “Kickstart My Heart.”
What body position would you like to see salon pros correct?
We could all benefit from some core strength to save our backs.
How do you pamper yourself?
I have an amazing massage therapist that I see. I also take Epsom salt and essential oil baths at least four times a week. My body thanks me.
What is your best skill?
My facials. We are in a rare industry that allows us to touch another human. It’s cathartic.
Who has been your professional mentor?
Denise Provenzano has coached me through my bumps in the road and has always had faith in me. I could never say “thank you” enough to her. I always want to make her proud. Also Sara Aikens and Katherine Dobbs—thank you for working your magic and making any goal attainable. I love my Zano family.
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