JINXX Magazine - Issue 1 : 2024 YEAR OF THE DRAGON

JINXX MAGAZINE 2024

JANUARY 2024

ISSUE 01

O F R T H A E E Y FIRST ISSUE OUR

OUR LOVE LETTER TO PALESTINE ft.@naturebynu & Andrèa AlbayerosAbdalah

WE GOT THAT BUBBLY 8 New Years Affirmations!

NEW YEAR SAME YOU, AND THATS OKAY !

DRAGON PHOTOGRAPHY BY: Kaci Peterson & Ana Carmona-Pereda

Table of Contents

1 OUR LOVE LETTER

TO PALESTINE.

LUNAR NEW YEAR.

22 IN OR KNOT?

Featuring: @naturebynu

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NEW YEAR? SAME YOU. AND THAT’S OKAY !

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Featuring: Alessandra Gianna & Qui

16 WE GOT THAT BUBBLY

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Featuring nail art by: @artbyjazdi

Featuring: Joe-Anna Saenz

Featuring: Tayytime & Jennstar

26 TO BECOME SPRING MEANS

ACCEPTING THE RISK OF WINTER.

Featuring: Cindy Ramirez & Dre4mz_

jinXX magazine Léïsha Durena & Aisha Micourt Editor-in-Chief Aisha Micourt Creative Director Léïsha Durena Set Design @naturebynu @andreaalbayerosabdalah Chole Achille Aisha Micourt Léïsha Durena Writers

OUR LOVE LETTER TO PALESTINE AS THE WORLD GRAPPLES WITH THE COMPLEXITIES OF THE ONGOING CONFLICT IN PALESTINE JOIN US AS WE SHARE UNIQUE PERSPECTIVES OFFERING A NUANCED UNDERSTANDING OF THE HUMAN SPIRIT'S RESILIENCE AND THE HEALING POWER FOUND IN THE NATURAL WORLD. .

Written by : NaturebyNu Poetry by: Andrèa Albayerous Abdalah

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OUR LOVE LETTER TO PALESTINE

"Sowing Seeds of Healing: A Palestinian Herbalist's Love Letter to Palestine" Meet, NaturebyNU a Palestiniancertified herbalist and the visionary founder of a flourishing small business of the same title. NuNU offers plant-based, allnatural body care, ranging from feminine washes, handmade soap and even herbal smoke mixes. In this deeply personal firstpoint-of-view article, NuNU invites us to embark on a journey through the lens of a healer, entrepreneur, and unwavering advocate for Palestine.

@NATUREBYNU ACTIVIST & SMALL BUISNESS OWNER

I am a Palestinian woman. I clean my wounds with cloves and olive oil, I go to sleep remembering Jerusalem.

When I think of Jerusalem, I think of my grandmother’s grapevine; I think of picking the sour tough grapes with my cousin, I think of everyone laughing at us when we screw our faces up at the taste. My grandmother had everything in her garden. A massive grapevine.

Pomegranates, oranges, figs, lime, lemons, flowers, herbs, and all.

I say Palestinians tend to their plants as if they are our children; we have a deep love and respect for the earth beneath our feet. I walked in between the streets of Shuafat’s wheat stalk and mint and I know that hundreds of years ago, we danced dabke in circles to bless the www.nuturebyNu.com land, and the land replied with its invocations.

I also say that by nature, Palestinians were designed as a tenderhearted group of people. We were forced into resilience. We have to be tough or we cease to exist. We are the ones with hearts of diamonds and gold that were crushed by occupational steel boots. And if we had it our way, my uncle would be on his ranch on the hills of Old Beit Hanina, feeding the sheeps and goats.

I truly don’t feel like I belong in America. Everyday I watch people consume and consume with no regard for what they have or where it came from; in Palestine we enjoy we have been blessed with at the time and bless our neighbor too. I watch people believe they are the only important ones; in Palestine, the more of us, the merrier. Every night we sit in a circle on the stones while the aunties smoke shisha and we talk about their dreams, even when the soldiers tell us to go, we will not move our plastic garden chairs. We will sit and diagnose the coffee grounds left from our cups to see what our fortunes are. We sit in circles and roll grape leaves up with rice and freshly ground meat.

The Palestinian commitment to life will always surpass occupation, and it will forever surpass erasure. Unluckily for the world, our love of life is what cultivates the Palestinian conviction; our love grants us strength and steadfastness, especially in the face of evil. We are the grapes and pomegranate and mint. We are the deeply rooted olive trees, thousands of years old, living through our perennials and flora. Nature does not bow; neither do Palestinians. Instead, we move as a unit through the veins of our foliage and ride it out, completely until the end.

I pray for ease, soon. I pray for Palestinians to be as free as clouds in the sky and I pray we can become tender once more.

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I daydream of a Free Palestine while I'm wide awake yet, it's so hard to write unless it's at night The day, it gets too busy we're too easily distracted At night all I have are my thoughts and dreams that bring sleepless nights and tired days A cycle that's hard to stop Daylight approaches yet I still dream But the worries never cease forced to silence the thoughts so they don't escape my mouth in a scream feet on our necks as you ask us to condemn our fight Then the night breaks, and the truths hunt my dreams turning them into nightmares Leaving me sleepless writing in the dark Yet I have the freedom to write to be proud to be alive to keep fighting. to carry on daydreaming

“A Dream that I Traveled to Palestine

BY ANDREA ALBAYEROS-ABDALAH

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2024: YEAR OF THE DRAGON

JINXX MAGAZINE

The Lunar New Year marks the beginning of the lunisolar calendar. Originating in southeast Asia, the holiday now holds cultural, religious, and familial significance around the world.

The holiday symbolizes a time of renewal, reunion, and a welcoming of good fortune often through festivals. Among Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, Mongolian, and other East Asian cultures, celebrations typically include family gatherings, feasting, and the exchange of hongbao (you may know them as red envelopes).

THE LUNAR NEW YEAR: RITUALS AND LEGENDS As winter's chill gives way to the promise of renewal, the world prepares for a celestial spectacle, a tapestry of cultural vibrancy and ancient traditions—the Lunar New Year. In this enchanting exploration, we invite you to join us on a captivating odyssey into the essence of this timeless celebration, where the moon takes center stage, and a cascade of festivities unfolds.

WRITER

CHLOE ACHILLE

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Customs associated with the lunar year vary widely across regions and cultures. For example, food prepared for the holiday in southern China often focuses on seafood dishes, while in the north wheat-based foods, such as dumplings, are far more common.

Methods of worship, dialects, festivals, and decorations are all ways that celebrations vary around the world. In the United States specifically, Lunar New Year (sometimes colloquially referred to as Chinese New Year) has gained attention and participation far beyond the east asian diaspora from a broad American audience.

MODELS

ALESSANDRA GIANNA & QUI

Community events are common, with festivals with lion/dragon dances and markets being found across the country. There’s also been an incorporation into mainstream culture, with media and entertainment increasingly incorporating education and activities regarding the celebration into its cross-cultural understanding. Despite these regional variances, the core values of rebirth, connection, and welcoming good fortune remain no matter where you celebrate the lunar new year Celebrations of the lunar new year have a rich history dating back over 3,000 years, originally symbolizing the coming end of winter and the beginning of spring in agricultural societies, hence its major theme of “renewal”. It is a cultural cornerstone that fosters a sense of identity, community, and continuity across generations that emphasizes the cyclical nature of life. The lunar calendar, based on the phases of the moon, resets on the second new moon after the winter solstice, typically falling between late January or February.

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29TH DECEMBER 2O23

A core part of that cycle is the zodiac system, which contains twelve different animals indigenous to China believed to influence the personality traits and destiny of individuals born in their respective years. The stories vary, but a common legend has it that when the Buddha invited all animals to join him in celebrating the New Year, he honored the twelve that showed up by assigning each animal to a year in the cycle. The order of the animals was determined by which they arrived: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig.

We find ourselves close to the middle of the cycle in 2024, with the year of the Dragon upon us on February tenth. The dragon is the only mythical creature found among the animals in the Chinese zodiac, which has led some to believe that those born in the majestic year of the dragon inherit some of its qualities, including key characteristics such as ambition, charisma, innovation, creativity, independence, and confidence.

Those belonging to this zodiac are seen as especially destined for success and good fortune, so if you’re a dragon, look forward to this year!

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Lucky Numbers for the year 2024: 8, 14, & 21 Lucky Color for the year 2024: Emerald Green Lucky Months for the year 2024: March 6th to April 4th.

The year of the dragon invites us to take on new adventures and challenges. It is a time to be creative and express ourselves through different medias. Don’t be afraid to be BOLD and take on new roles duirng this year.

Since the Dragon symbolizes prosperity and fertility, the year of the dragon is also the right time to be open to new relationships. Just be cautious of stubborness and open to communication8 .

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YEAR OF THE DRAGON

By Margarita Perez | Photography by Francois Mercer

Let the legend of the Dragon guide you and keep you safe on your adventures during the Lunar New Year.

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Photography By : Kaci Peterson Modeling by: Qui @__qqtee Styling & Creative Direction by: Aisha Micourt Visual Direction & Props : Léïsha Durena Makeup by: Jade Quiles & Jade Stephens

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Photography By: Kaci Peterson Modeling by: (@) Alessandra Gianna Styling & Creative Direction: by Aisha Micourt Visual Direction & Props : Léïsha Durena Makeup by: Jade Quiles & Jade Stephens

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WE GOT THAT BUBBLY 8 New Year Affirmations

A daily affirmation is a positive statement or phrase that individuals repeat to themselves regularly with the intention of fostering a positive mindset, boosting self-confidence, and promoting personal growth. These affirmations are typically short, concise, and framed in the present tense as if the desired outcome is already happening. The purpose of daily affirmations is to influence thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes, ultimately shaping a more optimistic and empowered perspective on life.

By Aisha Micourt Photography by Ana Carmona-Pena Nail Art By @everythingjazadi Model : Jazmine Adiyana

Join us as we unlock the potential of positive thinking, providing you with a collection of affirmations that resonate with various aspects of life—be it career, relationships, health, or personal development. Discover how a few carefully chosen words, repeated consistently, can act as a catalyst for transformation, helping you overcome challenges and embrace a more fulfilling existence.

In a world that often bombards us with negativity, daily affirmations offer a sanctuary of self-empowerment. Let this magazine be your guide as we explore the profound impact that intentional, positive language can have on the human psyche. It's time to embrace the beauty of affirmations and embark on a journey toward a brighter, more resilient version of yourself.

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I AM NOT BEHIND. I AM EXACTLY WHERE I NEED TO ME.

MY INNER STRENGTH IS ABUNDANT, AND I AM CAPABLE OF OVERCOMING ANY OBSTACLE. I AM A MAGNET FOR POSITIVE EXPERIENCES AND OPPORTUNITIES.

I EMBRACE CHANGE AND WELCOME NEW OPPORTUNITIES.

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CREATIVE ENERGY SURGES THROUGH ME AND LEADS ME TO NEW POSSIBLITIES.

MY ABILITY TO CONQUER MY CHALLENGES IS LIMITLESS; MY POTENTIAL TO SUCCEED IS INFINITE. .

I PROTECT MY INNER PEACE AND THE INNER CHILD WITHIN ME.

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I AM IN CHARGE OF MY OWN ENERGY. I CHOSE HOW I FEEL IN EVERY MOMENT.

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NEW YEAR

SAME YOU,

AND THAT’S

AS THE CALENDAR TURNS ITS PAGE TO A NEW YEAR, COUNTLESS INDIVIDUALS EMBRACE THE AGE-OLD TRADITION OF MAKING NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS, OFTEN ACCOMPANIED BY THE RESOUNDING CHANT OF "NEW YEAR, NEW ME." HOWEVER, AS THE CONFETTI SETTLES AND THE INITIAL ENTHUSIASM WANES, IT'S TIME TO SHED LIGHT ON THE INHERENT FLAWS OF THIS POPULAR MANTRA AND EXPLORE WHY ITS EFFECTIVENESS MAY BE MORE MYTH THAN REALITY.

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OKAY! PHOTOGRAPHY BY: ANA CARMONA-PEREDA MODEL: JOE-ANNA SAENZ @JOEANUHHH STYLING & CREATIVE DIRECTION BY: AISHA MICOURT SET DESIGN AND PROPS BY LÉÏSHA DURENA

EFFECTIVE PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT REQUIRES A FOCUS ON SUSTAINABLE, LONGTERM CHANGES RATHER THAN QUICK FIXES. Sustainable change involves building habits and embracing a growth mindset, acknowledging that setbacks are a natural part of the journey. Rather than relying on an annual mantra, individuals may find greater success in embracing a mindset of continuous improvement throughout the year. Cultivating selfawareness, setting meaningful goals, and celebrating small victories contribute to a more sustainable and fulfilling path of personal growth.

Let's move beyond the superficial promises and embrace a more nuanced perspective on personal growth—one that acknowledges the value of continuous improvement, resilience in the face of setbacks, and the authenticity of a journey not confined to the constraints of a calendar.

Embracing the journey of continuous improvement allows for a more genuine transformation, free from the limitations and pitfalls of annual resolutions. It's time to shift the narrative from quick fixes to lifelong evolution, empowering ourselves to become the best versions of who we are, not just in the new year, but every day. The key to genuine transformation lies not in an annual proclamation, but in the unwavering commitment to becoming the best version of oneself, day by day.

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FROM CLASSIC KNOTS TO INNOVATIVE STYLES, THE

NECK TIE INVITES CREATIVITY. WHAT WAS ONCE CONSIDERED A STAPLE IN BUSINESS ATTIRE HAS SEAMLESSLY TRANSITIONED INTO THE REALMS OF CASUAL AND STREETWEAR, PROVING THAT THE NECK TIE IS NO LONGER CONFINED TO THE BOARDROOM BUT HAS FOUND ITS PLACE AS A VERSATILE FASHION STATEMENT. WHAT SETS THE 2023 NECK TIE TREND APART IS ITS DEPARTURE FROM THE CONFINES OF FORMALWEAR. THIS YEAR, WE'VE WITNESSED A PARADIGM SHIFT AS NECK TIES BOLDLY INFILTRATE CASUAL AND STREETWEAR ENSEMBLES.

PS: IT KILLS TO LOOK THIS GOOD!

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AS WE ENTER THE NEW YEAR, THE QUESTION LINGERS: WILL THE NECK TIE TREND CONTINUE TO THRIVE? SIGNS POINT TO A RESOUNDING YES. THE NECK TIE'S ABILITY TO SEAMLESSLY INTEGRATE INTO DIVERSE FASHION SUBCULTURES, ITS GENDER-NEUTRAL APPEAL, AND ITS CAPACITY FOR REINVENTION MAKE IT A STRONG CONTENDER FOR LONGEVITY.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY: ANA CARMONA-PEREDA MODEL: @TAYYTIMEE

Photography By : Kaci Peterson Model JennStar @J3nnStar Styling & Creative Direction by: Aisha Micourt Visual Direction & Props : Léïsha Durena

A STYLE THAT EMPHASIZES A PLAYFUL AND FLIRTATIOUS ATTITUDE, OFTEN CHARACTERIZED BY DAINTY AND DELICATE ELEMENTS SUCH AS RUFFLES, BOWS, AND PASTEL COLORS.

The coquette aesthetic, a trend that found its origins on Tiktok, took over the Internet in 2023, and we here at Jinxx KNOW it will be a hot topic item moving into 2024.

Bows especially have been showcased in amazing shows this year such as Sandy Liang's SS24 show, Mirror Palais SS24 show, and Christian Siriano's SS24 show.

Not only are bows the perfect accessory to bring life to an to your outfit, they're also really inexpensive, and all it takes is a knot and a piece of ribbon. It's fascinating how something as simple as a bow can make a statement in fashion and be easily accessible. We are giving it the award for hottest accessory if the year!

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Jinxx Magazine

TO BECOME SPRING MEANS As the sun sets earlier and the cold tendrils of winter wrap around us, many find themselves grappling with the subtle but persistent weight of seasonal depression. Yet, as the quote wisely suggests, "To become spring means accepting the risk of winter."

In this exploration, we delve into the importance of acknowledging and overcoming seasonal depression, offering practical solutions, tips, and tricks to not only weather the winter blues but also pave the way for the blossoming of a brighter mental spring.

Life is a journey marked by seasons, each presenting its unique challenges and lessons. Winter, with its cold and darkness, represents the inevitable hardships, setbacks, and moments of introspection that we all encounter. Accepting the reality of these challenging seasons is the first step in acknowledging the inherent ebb and flow of life.

Nature itself provides a profound teacher in this analogy. Winter serves as a crucial period of rest, preparation, and renewal for the earth. Similarly, our metaphorical winters can be moments of reflection, selfdiscovery, and the laying of foundations for personal growth. By aligning our mindset with the wisdom of nature, we learn that acceptance of the risk of winter is not only necessary but a transformative part of our journey.

To become spring means not only enduring winter but actively engaging with the transformative process. It's about

Photography By: Kaci Peterson & Ana Carmona-Pereda Model(s): Cindy Ramirez & Dre4mz_ Styling & Creative Direction by :Aisha Micourt Visual Direction & Props: Léïsha Durena Makeup by: Jade Quiles & Jade Stephens

Resilience is the hallmark of those who heed the wisdom of this quote. Rather than resisting or fearing the winters in our lives, embracing them fosters an attitude of resilience. Understanding that storms may pass but leave us stronger in their wake enables us to face adversity with courage, knowing that we have the capacity to weather any season.

Applying this wisdom to our lives involves a mindful approach to navigating personal seasons. It invites us to reflect on the lessons learned during difficult times, appreciate the beauty of resilience, and anticipate the emergence of new opportunities. By internalizing the cyclical nature of our journeys, we can approach life with a sense of balance, understanding that each season plays a vital role in our becoming.

recognizing the opportunities for growth, adapting to change, and emerging stronger, wiser, and more resilient. By accepting the risks and challenges, we pave the way for the vibrant renewal of our personal springs.

Acceptance of this cyclical reality becomes the cornerstone for

navigating the challenges posed by seasonal depression.

Acknowledging that these darker periods are a natural part of the human experience allows for a more proactive approach to managing mental well-being.

Jinxx Magazine

ACCEPTING THE RISK OF WINTER

e open ourselves to rs, w the e t n i tra w l ns fo ica r rm o h at p i taBeating seasonal depression, often associated with

By accepting

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), involves implementing strategies that address both the physical and emotional aspects of well-being. Here are some tips to help alleviate symptoms and improve your overall mood during the darker month

ie beyond. hat l es t liti ibi ss po ve

the risk so fo ur m e

Becoming spring means accepting the risk of winter" encapsulates a timeless truth that transcends the seasons of nature and echoes within the corridors of our hearts. As we journey through life, let us heed this wisdom, embracing the challenges as catalysts for growth and the uncertainties as stepping stones toward renewal. In the delicate dance of life's seasons, may we find strength, resilience, and the unwavering belief that, no matter the risks of winter, the promise of spring is always within reach.

Combat feelings of isolation by staying connected with friends and family. Social interactions provide support and can help improve your overall well-being.

Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practice mindfulness meditation, deep-breathing exercises, or yoga. These techniques can reduce stress and promote a sense of calm.

Set Realistic Goals: Break down tasks into smaller, manageable goals. Celebrate small achievements to boost your sense of accomplishment.

Create a Cozy Environment: Embrace the concept of "hygge" by creating a warm and inviting living space. Use soft lighting, comfortable blankets, and soothing colors to promote a cozy atmosphere.

Engage in Hobbies: Pursue activities you enjoy to stimulate creativity and provide a sense of accomplishment. Hobbies can be a powerful tool in combating seasonal depression.

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We want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for joining us on this incredible journey. What started as a simple dream between two girls from Brooklyn has blossomed into something truly remarkable, and it's all thanks to your support, enthusiasm, and shared love for growth and inspiration.

The heart of our magazine beats with the rhythm of community, and you are the melody that makes it truly special. Thank you for being a part of our growth, for embracing the vision we had when we started, and for contributing your unique energy to this collaborative space.

As we continue this journey, fueled by passion and the desire to learn and share, we invite you to keep growing with us. Your feedback, your stories, and your presence inspire us daily, and we are excited for the chapters yet to unfold.

With sincere gratitude, editors-in-chief

Léïsha Durena

Aisha Micourt