Beauty Expert Ana Morales: Modern Life Exhausts Women More, Simplification Is Key

Modern life exhausts women more than men, according to Ana Morales, a beauty expert, journalist, and director of Vogue Spain. Morales contends that while contemporary life tires everyone, hormonal changes, ruminative thinking patterns, and societal pressures disproportionately affect women. She advocates for simplifying daily decisions to alleviate this burden. Morales shared that adopting a "uniform" outfit, wearing similar styles daily, significantly reduced her morning stress. This personal realization led her to write "Estado civil: cansada" (Marital Status: Tired), a book exploring the causes and effects of chronic exhaustion in women.

In her book, Morales moves beyond simplifying wardrobe choices to address the devastating impact of pervasive exhaustion on women's lives. Based on a year of research and consultations with experts ranging from psychiatrists to coaches, the book offers practical advice. She frames it as a guide for working women, detailing habit changes that, while seemingly minor individually, collectively contribute to high stress levels. Morales suggests strategies like digital detox periods, mindful breathing exercises, beauty tricks, and effective rest techniques.

Morales's approach is likened to a "Marie Kondo for the working woman," focusing on actionable steps to reclaim energy and well-being. She challenges the "I can do it all" mentality, promoting a shift towards prioritizing self-care. Her work highlights the mental load women carry, often stemming from societal expectations and the constant need to manage personal presentation alongside professional and family responsibilities. The book aims to empower women to recognize and combat this exhaustion.