CÉCILE CHARLOT

The body is not just a shell, it is a portal through which your true self can shine with confidence. Take careful and precise care of it, it will be sure to give it back to you. Being on the stage and under the spotlight, my lovely friend, Seattle-based Burlesque Artist and major Sensualist  Lily Verlaine lives by this:

"The body is a vehicle through which your soul radiates.

Consider the careful way that couture clothing is designed and cared for and how exquisite one feels when wearing these garments. I am happiest when my body is ready to receive a lover's touch at any given time, whether I have one or not. One way that I avoid self-criticism is to make certain that I am well-groomed as often as possible, paying attention to little details as it is truly distracting and damaging to my self-confidence to smell foul or to have an errant hair peeking out from my face.

I understand that I will never be magazine-perfect, but there are many elements of my physicality that I can control, for example, my scent. Staying well-hydrated, sticking to a whole foods diet and limiting alcohol consumption makes me feel radiant internally, and has an excellent effect on my mood and how my body smells. Think of how pleasant it is to give a hug to a person whose beautiful scent envelops you beyond the embrace.

I also tend to value smooth skin so I shave daily and wax the parts of me that would benefit twice a month. I hope that should I be given the opportunity to wrap my legs around someone, there isn't stubble standing between myself and them or indeed, between myself and a silk stocking. If you choose waxing, choose your esthetician carefully and develop a good relationship with this person.  After all, you are trusting them with very intimate parts."