Girl of the Month: Meet Mia Pineda

Oh, hi September! You bring the beginning of Fall, NY Fashion Week, National Yoga Month, the cusp of Virgo season, and of course, my birthday. The back-to-school vibe gives me a sense of a fresh start. It's in September when I check in with myself and reset for Q4. Which is why you, September, are my favorite month. And because the stars couldn’t align any better, the girl of the month happens to be one of my favorite people too.
I’m very proud to introduce Mia Pineda, muse of many, and a dear friend of mine. If you’re one of her 1 million followers on Instagram, you probably know her as Mia Astral. Pineda is the mastermind behind the modern astrology portal that’s responsible for all those “A-ha! moments” we’ve all had while stalking her on social media. Mia, a former lawyer, is now a full-time astrologer and life coach. Through her studies in Kabbalah, DBT and nutrition she’s helped us learn and understand about ourselves and the direction of our lives. This girl is a daily source of inspiration and support for me both personally and professionally. She empowers women around the world to be the best version of themselves and to tap into their power. I'm lucky to call her a friend and I’m honored to share with you the exclusive interview she did for de la heart. 

Mia, tell us what you do for a living.
I could label myself with a professional title, but I’m constantly studying, learning and growing, so I consider myself the Santa Claus of the “A-ha! Moments” that help people understand themselves better and move on with their lives after being stuck. But for formal purposes, I am  lawyer. I work as a writer, consultant and inspirational speaker using astrology, Kabbalah, DBT and nutrition as tools to help women change. 
Where does your love of feeling good and being healthy come from?
Everything that I do to feel better and look better is based on the grounds to have more energy so I can serve more. My love for being giving and assisting others is my motivation to be at my best.
What’s your go-to fitness routine or regimen?
My routine changes with my life. I have learned that structures are fictions that serve us for a bit, but you can change them or adapt them as you wish when you can. My safety does not lie on a structured routine anymore. I do work out everyday for at least one hour. It varies between running, bootcamp, pilates, yoga and boxing. The first half of the year it’s my time to write books—I train very early and do cardio sessions at night. The second half of the year is about presentations and plenty of travel, so I'm more flexible with the hours and really go with what fits my schedule and my mood. 
Where do you work out and why do you go there?
I work out with friends and a personal trainer because I love the girl’s energy. I train at Barry's Bootcamp because I love the music and that I can go whenever I can—it’s a guaranteed good workout! I like Ananda Pilates because of its privacy and the undivided attention of the teacher. I enjoy going to Fight Club because I go with my best friends. SOL Yoga and Skanda Yoga have good vibes and are may go-to when I need to clear my mind.
What is your approach to nutrition?
I’m a qualitarian. I love food, but as long it’s good quality. I rarely eat animal protein. I have lots of allergies so my list is getting smaller. My mantra is “if I want to feel light, I eat light”. Sugar is my downfall, but I also believe that it’s all about balance. Obsession is fed by restriction, so I allow myself sweet treats from time to time.
Now, everybody is different. I recommend to get to know yourself when it comes to nutrition. Develop a good relationship with food and understand its healing powers. Also, food has a neurological association with love, so if you feel you have issues with food, really what you have to work on is self-love and nurture yourself at every level.
What are your lifestyle “must-do’s” and your absolute “no ways”?
Must-do: feed your curiosity. Try those things that light your soul on fire just by thinking about them. Travel. Learn. Be open. Know that you are never done so never lose your capacity to be surprised. Let life take over.
No-way: Dwell on the past. Idealize the future. Tolerate bullshit, no even from yourself. Don't stay in a situation where there is no love.
What’s the cheat treat you can’t resist?
The Salty Donut!
What is the one beauty product you can’t live without?
Any Glossier beauty products.
What’s your beauty secret?
I can be very dolled up but if i'm stressed or sad, it will show. My beauty secret is having fun, try to make the best of where I am at, being present and smile from the girl within.
What brand of workout gear do you wear when working out and why?
So many! I love to shop at Carbon 38, the athleisure multi-brand carries a wide selection of a few of my favorite brands—Alo yoga, Adidas by Stella, and Michi are a few of my favorites. 
What’s the last book you read?
Rising Strong by Brene Brown
Describe your ideal “date night” outfit.
Band Vintage t-shirt and a leather skirt or jeans—Frankie’s got me covered there!
If it’s kinda fancy, you can never go wrong with the little black dress. Cushnie et Ochs has the best ones.
If you had to give your younger self one piece of advise, what would it be?
The past is to be remembered, but remember that the present is golden, so be here now. 

Mia is our girl of the month of September and we couldn't be more excited! Stick around this month and get to know more of Mia's self-care and beauty secrets. 
with love, 
Gigi