I always agree with the saying: “Everything in moderation.” In my experience, overindulgence and excess are usually a bad idea. For instance, too much makeup will make you look unnatural; makeup done correctly and in moderation can really make a difference. This begs the question of what beauty actually is. And of course, what is going on with Heidi Montag?

I’ve been an avid fan of The Hills from day one. In fact, I started before that show debuted and used to love Laguna Beach (don’t act surprised — you know about my reality TV obsession!). So when I really think about the days of Heidi before she met Spencer and took the Speidi spotlight, I seriously can’t believe the huge change from wholesome Heidi (whose only problem was her fights with her boyfriend Jordan and her inability to stay in fashion school) to plastic Barbie Heidi (who now represents the negative influence of Hollywood and her personality of being a follower).

In a recent interview with Good Morning America, Montag debuted her new look. She allegedly had 10 plastic surgeries in one day in order to enhance her beauty and make some adjustments to her body. But my favorite part of this interview was when Heidi said that beauty is on the inside and comes from within. That’s such a contradictory statement. I totally believe that statement, but I do not believe that Heidi represents it. If she really believed that to be true, she wouldn’t be enhancing or “tweaking” her body at the age of 23.

Heidi went on to say that she’s in a different industry than everyone else and she has had to keep up with a certain image in Hollywood. I’m sorry, Heidi, but your fame is skin-deep. And although you may have 30 minutes of fame instead of 15, this doesn’t mean that you’re a superstar. You may not have an addiction at the moment, but what will happen in the next 10-20 years when your body really does start to age?

To me, beauty is accepting who you are – flaws and all – and staying true to yourself. While I am not naive to the existence of insecurity, I think it’s very important to work at taking what you have and spinning it into a positive light. No one is perfect. Not even those who are on the A-list in Hollywood. Beauty isn’t makeup or hair or spa treatments. Beauty is being yourself and not letting anyone else get you down. The rest of it is a way to maintain yourself in a natural (and hygienic) way. Beauty is allowing yourself to be you.

What’s your definition of beauty?

-Amanda Fornecker

The East vs. West debacle has always been widely debated throughout history. And it still holds true today. New Yorkers enjoy the quick pace of their city, while Californians enjoy being laid back surfers. But that’s not the only East/West debate. In fact, there are two types of massage techniques that have their base within Eastern medicine and Western medicine. When considering a career in massage, which should you pick? Different massage therapy schools base their own curriculum on these different techniques. It’s something important to consider. With which method can you see yourself siding and working in day by day?

Western massage focuses on the digestive and nervous systems. Common types of Western massage include Swedish massage and myofascial release. The main focus is to create a sense of relaxation and muscle tension relief.

Eastern massage deals with balancing the body and its parts. Massage therapists use more vigorous techniques to treat patients. Tui Na and Shiatsu are forms of Eastern massage.

Read more about these types of massage therapy here, get started on your massage therapy career, and prepare to help others feel better soon.

-Amanda Fornecker

I couldn’t help but notice all the great compliments I got this week on my nail polish. It’s a great conversation starter and an excellent way to stand out in the crowd. From darks to neutrals, which colors would be best on you? I’m sure your nail technician is sure to give you the best answer. Until then, here are some of my favorites for this time of year.

The color that has been keeping my nails warm and the compliments flowing all week long is Essie’s Chinchilly. This dark gray is a perfect combination of neutral and dark to match any outfit no matter where you’re going.

Neutrals are certainly in for any season. Limo-scene by Essie is a light pink that keeps your nails neat and clean, while giving them the shine they deserve to keep you out for a night out on the town or for a quiet day at the office.

I love Mr. Right Now by Sephora by OPI. It’s a deep red that is great for the holidays, Valentine’s Day, and winter in general. For your next party, get your nail technician to spice up your life with some bold color.

By talking with your licensed nail technician, you’ll be able to find out what’s hot and in for the current season and what might go best with your skin tone. After all, professionals know best and they are on the very pulse of every fashion trend.

-Amanda Fornecker

I miss the days of the old Disney cartoon movies. I grew up on The Little Mermaid, Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, and others. These are some of the greatest movies of my childhood and when I think of them a little deeper, I can see some great lessons…

Cinderella
OK, so we may not all have a fairy godmother, but this can be seen as a lesson (although extreme) in paying your dues. Sometimes, you may feel that you have been working up your way for quite some time at your job. But one day, your prince will also come and you’ll finally flourish into the princess you’ve always been. So with a little hard work and some patience, the clock striking midnight will not turn the carriage back into the pumpkin, but may indicate your advancement in your beauty career. Don’t let your evil stepmother get you down!

The Little Mermaid
We all know that Ariel wanted more and what’s wrong with thinking outside of the box (or the ocean)? Although you may sometimes need to make sacrifices to get where you want to be, it can be worth it in the end. Obstacles come up (let’s just hope they’re not as scary and crazy as Ursula) and you can overcome them with a little perseverance, honesty, and hard work. Maybe a little rearranging of your life may be in order, but just think of how happy you can be in the end when you finally get your yummy Eric.

Beauty and the Beast
Yes, this was certainly a lesson in beauty being more than just skin deep and going beyond first impressions. But it was also about taking chances, standing up for what you believe in, and even hitting the books. Belle loved books and got everything she wanted. Of course, she had to overcome some tough situations, but her curiosity and zest for life (and beasts) helped her to get her gorgeous golden gown and her gallant gent (even though he was kind of a giant gargoyle before…).

These were all Disney love stories between two people, but your love affair can be translated to a beauty or spa career. Do what you love, work hard, and you will triumph in the end.

-Amanda Fornecker