Recent Body Analysis: Wellness, Sexuality, Body Politics
/ Anne EnkeBody: Wellness, Sexuality, Politics
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The historical journey of makeup is a fascinating tale of human ingenuity and adaptability. Early humans discovered the potential of naturally occurring substances like ochre clays and charcoal to create pigments that could be applied to the skin. These rudimentary forms of makeup were likely used for both practical purposes—such as camouflage during hunting—and expressive ones.
Understanding the roots of makeup helps us appreciate its enduring presence in human society. It reveals how our ancestors viewed beauty, identity, and even power through the lens of their environmental resources and cultural contexts.
In late March 2024, Vogue Ukraine [IG] shared a wellness story ‘Shape of Water’ with model Julia Pacha. Kasia Mioduszke styled the fashion shoot lensed by photographers Tatiana and Karol [IG].
Ocean Sounds in Human History
Throughout history, the sound of ocean waves has held a profound cultural and historical significance for human societies. From ancient civilizations to modern times, the rhythmic ebb and flow of waves have been intertwined with human life, evoking a sense of wonder, reverence, and connection to the natural world.
Water As a Divine Entity
In many ancient cultures, the ocean was seen as a divine entity or the abode of gods and spirits.
Mami Wata is a captivating figure rooted in the cultural and spiritual tapestry of Africa, embodying the complex interplay between water, femininity, and mysticism. Mami Wata’s history and meaning have always been woven into Anne of Carversville’s digital psyche.
Impact of Ocean Waves on Our Brains
In our modern world, the soothing sound of ocean waves crashing against the shore has long been associated with a sense of peace and relaxation. What is it about this natural symphony that captivates the human brain so profoundly? The answer lies in both the physical properties of sound waves and their psychological impact on our minds.
In late May, AOC introduced friends of Anne of Carversville to the summer 2024 issue of Harper’s Bazaar Netherland’s. In the editorial overview, we led with the sensual, art-gallery photography of Neeltje de Vries [IG], with a preview of other content.
Today model Zoe Barnard takes the spotlight, lensed by David Roemer [IG] in Cabo San Lucas, with styling by Holly Gorst.
Much of AOC Body’s recent writings have focused on ancient civilizations and their beliefs in nature as an agent of good health. Our specific focus has been on swimming and the relationship of ancient societies to water.
Today, we turn to sunlight and its critical relationship to healthy human bodies.
The summer 2024 issue of Harper’s Bazaar Netherlands [IG] invites us to ‘get naked’, inspired by the sensual vision of water-inspired bliss expressed by model Zoe Bernard photographed by David Roemer [IG] and the sensual, art-gallery photography of Neeltje de Vries [IG].
The word ‘naked’ speaks figuratively to the tip-of-the-tongue marketing word ‘authenticity’, which also has a deeper meaning about personal behavior and expressed values to humans seeking more earnest conversation on the subject.
Authentic woman of the hour Pamela Anderson is featured in the issue ‘getting naked’ as is artist Lenny Kravitz.
When a resort-focus fashion story opens with model Devyn Garcia styled by Verity Parker in classic, white swimsuits from sustainable brand Jade Swim and queen of rich understatement Loro Piana, we know that a hot Pucci print is probably not waiting in our digital scroll.
Here we are — returning to Reid’s Palace [IG], a Belmond Hotel in Madeira, one week after sharing ancient water stories inspired by a Vogue Thailand wellness story also shot at Reid’s Palace.
Today, photographer Ina Levy [IG], who is also editor-in-chief of Vogue Poland, captures Devyn Garcia in classic swimwear and coverups that will “suit everyone”, writes The Sunday Times Style [IG] section.
Rising model Chloe Magno covers Vogue Thailand Beauty [IG] April 2024 issue, devoted to emerging, holistic trends in wellness and beauty.
Magno’s fashion story ‘Wellness Wisdom’ is styled by Holly Gorst with images by Amie Milne [IG] and the editorial eye of Vogue Thailand EIC Kullawit Laosuksri.
The Mekong Basin: Ancient Wisdom and Water Reverence
In the heart of Southeast Asia, the Mekong Basin unfurls as a testament to the ancient wisdom and reverence for water held by the peoples living in this region. Their differing histories and customs are united by their respect for the region’s waterways. This region considers its rivers and springs not merely as sources of sustenance but as sacred entities that cradle life and civilization.
Photographer Fernando Sippel [IG] brings his poetic and sensual photographic vision to Rio De Janeiro for a fashion story ‘Rainforest’, shared in the February 2024 digital issue of Numéro Netherlands [IG]. / Hair and makeup by Claudio Belizario
Jose Camarano styles model and rainforest activist Emilly Nunes in images that express the deep relevance and symbolism of the rainforest in human life on planet Earth.
Top model Imaan Hammam fronts the late February 2024 release of Zara Swimwear. The images remind us that spring is coming in to the northern hemisphere, and swimming is on our minds.
Some of the earliest examples of ancient swimmers include the frescoes in the Cave of Swimmers in Egypt, dating back to around 10,000 years ago.
Water holds immense symbolic significance in various global religions due to its powerful and transformative nature. In many belief systems, water is seen as a source of life and purification.
Read on about the role of water in Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam and indigenous cultures.
Zara drops another swimwear capsule, this time a June 2023 collection modeled by Steffi Cook, shot by Kate Bellm [IG]./ Hair by Karim Belghiran; makeup by Jose Carlos Gonzalez
Your Body and Brain Love Swimming
Swimming is often considered one of the best exercises for the body, but did you know that it can also have major benefits for the brain? Research has shown that swimming can positively impact various aspects of the brain, including cognitive function, memory, and even mood.
Firstly, swimming is known to stimulate the growth of new brain cells, a process known as neurogenesis. This is especially important as we age, as the creation of new brain cells slows down over time. Swimming can help boost this process, especially in the hippocampus, an area of the brain responsible for memory and learning.
