ON DUTY CITIZEN

PAULINA MURCHIE

1) What are some “big kid” activities you love to do that keeps you youthful?

I love to take my dog hiking upstate. It’s nice to decompress and take a break from the noise and congestion of New York. The energy of the city is one of the things I love about it but I need to take a breather (usually when I find myself getting road rage behind slow walkers on the street).

Another adult activity I’ve recently gotten into is cooking and I can’t think of anything else more calming after a busy day. My boyfriend and I cook Sunbasket delivery meals at home twice a week. We usually go with a paleo meal plan (they also have vegetarian options) and the recipes and flavors are great. It’s changed my mindset when it comes to healthy eating because I used to feel like trying to eat healthy came with a long list of foods that I wasn’t allowed to have. With Sunbasket, I never feel deprived of anything because the meals are so flavorful. -I can't agree with you more about getting out of NYC every once in a while... I still love the energy that comes with living in the city but same to you, as soon as I get overly aggressive on the subway or sidewalk I know it's time for a little break. A hike upstate is such a nice and easy getaway!

2) Beyond modeling, what are some cool projects, hobbies or side hustles you’re working on?

I’m in the process of launching modelling consulting company called The Model Manual. My mom is a former model and has been instrumental in getting me to where I am in my career today. As a teenager I was eager to follow in her footsteps but she was apprehensive about having me get into the modeling industry knowing some of the obstacles that she faced. Eventually I wore her down but she really helped guide me and I can’t imagine what it would be like for others to blindly enter the industry. Yes, agencies will help you when you’re starting out but I know how beneficial it is to speak to someone who has first hand experience.

My Model Manual is a guide book with all the information you could need for someone who is just starting out or wants insight into the fashion world because every model knows it’s not all glitz and glam. The Model Manual includes an in-depth interview with my mom, who voices her initial concerns and tips for supporting a young girl entering the industry. This is geared towards parent with children who are starting out. I cover casting advice, travelling, nutrition, self love, social media and my biggest financial advice for models like how to stay on top of your account statements and how to go about filing your taxes in a foreign country which can be overwhelming. I also go through obstacles and mistakes that I made throughout my career as a learning experience for others.

I know how lucky I’ve been to have my mom to instruct me and I want to pay it forward because I know how intimidating it can be. The Model Manual explains the basics and I also offer 1-on-1 appointments in person, over the phone or on Skype. Having so much experience is really valuable to anyone just starting out. -Wow, we couldn't be more similar! My mom is a former model too and I often wonder how I could have ever navigated this industry without her help and guidance. It's so helpful to have their insight and it's something I try and never take for granted. Love that you're sharing this with your followers!!

Twitter: themodelmanual
Instagram: modelmanual.nyc

3) Part of what’s so great about being a model is having a following on social media. What are some important messages you try to pass on to your followers?

I love to share a mix of work photos but also a glimpse into my everyday life with cooking, fitness or just hanging at home with the pup.

Social media can be a tricky rabbit hole to fall into, with everyone showing off the best versions of themselves. I think it’s refreshing when people will share their struggles or a photo with imperfections because it makes them more relatable. It’s hard to connect to someone who you think is perfect or is depicting a life that you might feel is unattainable.

4) You’re flying to a new city for a couple days of work. It’s a short trip- what are you packing?

Workout clothing and Nike’s because I get over that plane grogginess even if I only do a quick 20 minutes of cardio after landing.

A good book on my ipad - right now I’m reading I’ll Be Gone in the Dark by Michelle McNamara about the Golden State Killer. I’ll bring my day planner to stay up to date on scheduling and facial sheet masks for a pre-bed ritual. A big cozy sweater for the trip and my BKR reusable water bottle. My laptop is also a staple wherever I go to get some writing done.

5) The fashion industry is quite wasteful, yet some companies and brands are trying to make a difference. Whether it’s a clean beauty brand or an ethical/sustainable company, do you have any favorites that stick out?

Oh man there are so many. I went through my makeup bad recently to get rid of toxic products and needless to say threw out almost everything. I also have you to thank for the FP Skin referral, my skin loves you for that.

Beauty Brands:

Clothing Brands:

6) What are some of your go-to self-care rituals?

I am a huge fan of getting facials. Not only to keep my skin glowing and to detox from all the makeup, but for that extra little bit of self love. I’m from Toronto and I have my magical healer named Lekha Dial at Elements Spa and I swear by her. She gives custom facials and will do acupuncture at the same time, which helps me to regulate my hormones and relieve stress. She has the calmest demeanor and you will leave walking on a cloud.

I also love an infrared sauna sweat, you feel so light and cleansed afterwards. Another step in my self care process is to get a colonic about every 3-4 months. You don’t realize how much traveling can impede digestion and it helps to clear out any build up that could be affecting your skin. So much information is coming out about gut health tying into skin, mood and just overall health so my gift to my gut is a deep cleaning every so often.

For mental health I started meditating in the last year and it really calms me down if I’m feeling anxious or stressed. I use Headspace but HIGHLY recommend going to MNDFL in New York for beginners. Their guided meditations are helpful if you’re just getting started because they teach you how to bring your focus back to your breathing when it inevitably starts to wander. I’m really excited to see how much of an emphasis is currently being put on mental health. -Absolutely love all these suggestions and am so happy you suggested a colonic... I've always considered them but have been somewhat scared but realize that so much is in our gut that affects our skin, mood etc. and a little cleanse every once in a while can be so important! You've inspired me!!! ;)