Maia Alejandro is the founder of FOR TMRW, a non-toxic nail polish line.

"Beauty is in appreciating the small things that make your life incredibly special."

What is beauty to you?
Beauty to me is in everyday life. It's in the grace you extend to those around you, the love you share with those you care about, and the kindness you grant to those on your path. Beauty is in appreciating the small things that make your life incredibly special.

How do you stay connected to your roots?
Through music. Music has a way of instantly bringing me back to the joyful moments of my childhood.

What do you wish someone would have told you to teach you self-love?
I wish someone would have taught me that it is okay to rest, and that resting is actually necessary in order to keep moving towards your goals. I learned this the hard way, after experiencing severe burn out.

What inspires you to create and where do you get inspiration from?
Traveling always inspires me to create. Experiencing how other people live, the tools they use for their everyday lives, and how the sun just seems to shine differently in other places around the world. During the pandemic, I've found inspiration in old art magazines, the lush gardens in the park near where I live, and in my childrens' unwavering joy.

"Traveling always inspires me to create."

What wellness rituals do you practice?
I pull a tarot card every morning for guidance, and always oil my cuticles before bed. I adore luxurious creams and make a ritual of using my Dr. Barbara Sturm face cream and Chanel hand lotion as I finish my night time skin regimen. Also, I love to take a salt bath once a week after giving myself a manicure with FOR TMRW polishes.

What life philosophy or mantra do you live by?
Beauty makes life worth living.

What is one beauty practice, tool or product you wish to never do without?
Sunscreen! There is nothing more important than protecting your skin from the sun - and that includes your hands too! Most people forget to protect their hands from sun damage.

BELOVED MUSE is a YAWONI series featuring inspirational creative women who share their thoughts on beauty, wellness and self-love.