SHOWER THOUGHTS
Meet our community of friends, family, collaborators and role models as we ask them the Jolie Shower Thoughts questionnaire.
SHOWER THOUGHTS
WITH Dr. Naana Boakye
Dr. Naana Boakye is a Board-Certified Dermatologist with over 15 years of experience specializing in general dermatology, emphasizing “patient first” care.
Her practice, Bergen Dermatology, based out of Englewood Cliffs, NJ, offers comprehensive care of all skin needs, emphasizing acne and melanated concerns. She takes a “lifestyle dermatology” approach, which takes an integrative, holistic look at the health and appearance of the skin – incorporating diet, physical activity, stress management, and emotional well-being into every treatment plan.
Her practice, Bergen Dermatology, based out of Englewood Cliffs, NJ, offers comprehensive care of all skin needs, emphasizing acne and melanated concerns. She takes a “lifestyle dermatology” approach, which takes an integrative, holistic look at the health and appearance of the skin – incorporating diet, physical activity, stress management, and emotional well-being into every treatment plan.
WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU FELT INSPIRED?
I am constantly inspired by my patients. I truly enjoy our visits. My staff often calls them “therapy sessions” not a dermatology visits…lol. I'm so lucky to be in this profession because I meet people from all walks of life, every single day. I love hearing their stories, their secrets, and try to help them on their journeys. I know what makes them happy and what makes them sad, and we always come up with plans and strategies for them to be successful along their paths.
WHAT DO YOU VALUE THE MOST ABOUT YOURSELF AND WHY?
One of the things I really value about myself is my kindness, followed by my ability to listen attentively and maintain patience.
To me, kindness goes beyond just being polite; it's about genuinely caring for others and making an effort to understand their experiences. I find joy in uplifting those around me and creating a sense of connection and trust in my relationships. Whenever there are challenges or disagreements, I've noticed that approaching them with kindness allows for more understanding and empathy, rather than resorting to judgment or confrontation.
Additionally, my ability to listen, and do so patiently, creates a safe environment where others feel comfortable expressing themselves openly, knowing they'll be heard and respected.
To me, kindness goes beyond just being polite; it's about genuinely caring for others and making an effort to understand their experiences. I find joy in uplifting those around me and creating a sense of connection and trust in my relationships. Whenever there are challenges or disagreements, I've noticed that approaching them with kindness allows for more understanding and empathy, rather than resorting to judgment or confrontation.
Additionally, my ability to listen, and do so patiently, creates a safe environment where others feel comfortable expressing themselves openly, knowing they'll be heard and respected.
WHAT'S ONE THING YOU THINK OTHER PEOPLE OVERVALUE?
Individuals want instant gratification or just overnight success when it comes to skincare. And often believe a cream is going to provide a transformation overnight. Skincare products usually take at least 2-3 months before noting success. I enjoy educating my patients on ingredients, and the importance of consistency and compliance in order to see success.
WHAT DOES THE WORD 'WELLBEING' MEAN TO YOU?
Wellbeing means being able to take time for yourself, whether it's physical rest, emotional rest, or staying connected with others.
Putting yourself first and knowing how to say no to others is “wellbeing” to me.
In addition, fueling your body with nutrients to deal with all the different stressors in this world.
Putting yourself first and knowing how to say no to others is “wellbeing” to me.
In addition, fueling your body with nutrients to deal with all the different stressors in this world.
WHAT IS YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH WATER?
I love water, I hydrate with water all day long except for my coffee! I enjoy taking baths once - sometimes even twice a day. I always tell patients their blood is made out of water, not juice or soda, so drink water!
IF YOU COULD CHANGE ONE THING ABOUT YOUR DAILY ROUTINE, WHAT WOULD THAT BE?
I wish I could only work from 10 am to 2 pm so I could focus on myself and practice my entire self-love routine every single day. I give so much to all my patients that sometimes I just don't have time for myself. Work takes up time, and I wish I could dedicate more time to myself.
WHAT WOULD YOUR STARTER PACK INCLUDE?
My cell phone, water bottle, a pair of wide-leg jeans from rag & bone, a copy of to Kill a Mockingbird, Karité lip balm, hand cream, and sunscreen. (Hydration and Moisturization!)
HAVE YOU HAD ANY INTERESTING SHOWER THOUGHTS LATELY?
I'm doing a renovation, so in the shower, I’m always thinking, “Did I talk to the contractor about this or the designer about that?” I think about my patients a lot. I rarely think about myself, I'm always thinking about my to-do list in the shower, but I do think you should focus on yourself in the shower. We should always be present, but it's hard to be present!
