Cousins-in-law Danica Sotto and Joy Sotto lead enviable parallel lives with their repective families.
Happily married and hands-on moms both, Danica has three kids with husband Marc Pingris, while Joy has six kids with husband Gian Sotto.
Hard to believe, Danica and Joy have their share of insecurities, too.
Danica said, “Meron pa din. Once in a while," she opened to Philippine Entertainment Portal (PEP.ph).
She elaborated, "Pero hindi na ganun ka-grabe like when you were younger na talagang you’ll beat yourself up.
"Mas forgiving ka na. Meron pa rin, but there’s always room for improvement."
Joy also conceded having some insecurities that crop up from time to time, but not anymore as much in her 40s as when she was in her 20s and 30s.
She said, “I guess when you’re in your 40s, you’ve been through a lot of experiences in life, you’re more content.
"I guess, speaking for me and Danica, we’re more content. But then, of course, there’s still some insecurities, especially as a mom.
“When you're in your 40s kasi your metabolism slows down. It’s not like in 20s anymore that it’s so easy to lose weight.
"There are stubborn fats there, and it’s so hard to lose.
"I think yun and insecurity ko now na medyo na sometimes I plateau.
"I gain weight, I don’t know how to lose that weight..."
But these, according to Joy, "are my minor insecurities that I don’t dwell on too much because it’s all part of life."
PEP.ph interviewed Danica and Joy during the 38th anniversary celebration of Marie France last November 9, 2023, at its Makati branch in G.T. International Tower.
DANICA AND JOY ON SELF-CARE
Reflecting, Danica and Joy stressed the importance of prioritizing self-care early on.
Danica said, “In your 20s and 30s, if you already know how to eat well, how to exercise, how to self-care, I think hindi ka na maghahabol.
"Prevention is key. So if ever you’ll reach your 40s, maintenance na lang. Train your body to have discipline so you won’t have a hard time when you’re older."
For her part, Joy advised taking care of your inner self, highlighting that true beauty emanates from within.
She said, "My advice to the 20s and 30-year-olds is to focus more on the inside because it will reflect more on the outside.”
Joy also recommended embracing each stage of life without feeling too stressed out.
She expounded, "I think we are all born different. Some are born to be thin, some are born to be a little malaman.
"I think just enjoy every stage in your life, and don’t pressure yourself too much.
"The more you do, the more you get stressed. And it shows on the outside again and it will affect the people around you.
"So I think you should be content with what God has given you now, and just be grateful. Just have gratefulness in your life.”
DANICA AND JOY'S SELF-LOVE ROUTINE
Both agreed that treatments can help speed up results.
Danica and Joy have both benefitted from the FMS (Fat Mobilization System) Elite, a weight management program that promises to cut down half a pound of weight per session, burn up to 1,000 calories, and rev up a sluggish metabolism.
They also like the non-invasive Endermologie+ cellulite treatment, a soothing and relaxing deep-tissue massage treatment that helps shed excess fat and reshape the body.
Danica said, “The FMS Elite is my favorite because it really boosts the metabolism.
"Actually, it’s also good for the heart. May studies na din showing that. It’s like with the trend na cold plunge, pero nauna na si Marie France.
"Same kami ni Joy, we also do the Endermologie+ (EDM Plus). It’s body contouring. It’s like having a massage. I do it twice a week."
Joy is a fan of the Thermo Magnetic Pulse treatment, which uses a 4D technology approved by Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) in the States.
According to Marie France's official website, this treatment provides the advantages of four treatments in one: fat reduction, skin tightening, body contouring, and cellulite smoothing.
Joy added, "I like Thermo Magnetic Pulse (TMP), I like heat. TMP melts my fats and tightens my skin. I really need tightening."
Yet, for these treatments to remain effective over time, it's crucial to maintain them with the support of a nutritionist and a behavioral specialist.
Danica informed, “There are nutritionists who help and guide you in your eating plan.
"If you take care of yourself at home, hindi yung sa clinic lang, you see results faster.
"And then right now, Marie France has a behavior specialist.
"I remember they were able to identify what are my stressors. Minsan tayo pag women, pag na-stress tumataas ang cortisol level. Dun tayo mag-bloat.
“I think na-appreciate ko na when she said not to feel guilty to eat cake because it was during time with your family. A simple slice wouldn’t hurt.
"Ang ganda din, they really help you with your journey."
Danica also recounted the advice of the behavior specialist: "You shouldn’t see food as a punishment or a reward.
"It should be something that really nourishes you. So wag ka matatakot kapag may food, kailangan mo nga yun."
More importantly, she added, “If you’re happy and you're content... di naman mawawala yung problems.
"But if you know how to handle or once in a while you get back on your feet when you're going through a tough season, laban lang."
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