first healthy relationship after a toxic one

KIRSTEN STORMS WEIGHT GAIN: “I’M HEALTHY AND I FEEL GOOD – AT ANY SIZE”

Actress Kirsten Storms, known for her role as Maxie Jones on General Hospital, has been open about her experiences with weight fluctuations. This isn’t just about a celebrity’s appearance; it’s a story about facing health challenges, body image struggles, and ultimately, self-acceptance. Let’s delve into Kirsten’s journey and how she’s inspiring others to focus on what truly matters: health and happiness.

WHO IS KIRSTEN STORMS?

Kirsten Storms is an American actress born in 1984, best known for captivating audiences of all ages. She rose to fame as a Disney Channel darling, portraying the adventurous Zenon Kar in the “Zenon” trilogy. Her talents extended beyond live-action, as she voiced Bonnie Rockwaller in the animated series “Kim Possible.”  Storms also has a long-standing role on the soap opera “General Hospital,” where she’s played Maxie Jones for many years. Throughout her career, Kirsten Storms has entertained viewers with her charisma and versatility, but she’s also garnered attention for her openness about her personal experiences, including her health struggles and journey with body image.

FAN RESPONSE TO KIRSTEN STORMS WEIGHT GAIN 

“Kirsten Storms is what I think of as “Hollywood fat”. She is not at all big compared to real people, only compared to the unnaturally thin women we see on screens. Therefore, her clothes would not need to be plus size but neither are they “sample size” or whatever it is that the excessively skinny women around her wear.

She is a beautiful woman and the costumers are doing her a terrible disservice.” A Reddit account commented on the star’s way of dressing, saying that weight is not a problem she faces.

“I think with Maxie, for me personally it has nothing to do with her size but the styling. The fashionista should be dressed in couture from top to bottom even just going to the grocery store. Maxie loves fashion and has worked very hard building up her career so I would imagine that she has networked and built strong relationships with fashion designers who sent her pieces all the time that she could get for free. And technically she should have collected lots of nice pieces over the years.

I know she’s a mom and struggling right now but fashion and event planning are two things that bring her happiness. Plenty of fashion lovers get pieces from the thrift store or rent them from places like rent the runway.

I second Maxie needing a hot romance. She hasn’t been paired well with anyone since Nathan. Preferably a non-toxic romance.

Portia is very one-dimensional and needs something to make her more interesting so I could be down with villain Portia.

Yes yes yes to more Lucas. I know why he left PC and the whole Wiley thing but we need to find a way to bring him back to PC. I’ve always enjoyed Ryan as Lucas on screen and we need more hospital-centric storylines.

Side note: I need them to do more emphasized that Ava is Sam and Lucas aunt and all the connections that brings including Leo. I would like to see some Jerome family gatherings every now and then.

Oh and happy Birthday!”

“The problem with Maxie isn’t her size. The problem isn’t Maxie at all. It’s her wardrobe making her look grumpy. I was once very big. Still am obese. I still didn’t look like a frump. They could at least try. Give her a better hair cut for one. Colors rather than dark dark dark.

And I’m with you on Portia. That would have been an amazing story. We’ve already seen the lengths she’ll go to protect Trina.

Ryan Carnes back would be great.” Another comment.

“Kirsten doesn’t have that sparkle anymore. Kemo gets ssoooo much criticism for “phoning it in”. There’s a blogger on twitter, I’m sure you all know him, who mocks her for “thinking about pizza”. Yet not one word about Kirsten. The show has its favorites, but so do the soap bloggers. They will mock Chad, Kemo, you name it, but they will literally retweet Laura Wright with big FU pictures to get a pileon going. It’s so interesting. And I don’t even like Chad!

I think that the actors do have some say in their wardrobe, and I think this is how Kirsten is comfortable since she’s gained weight. People were attacked for talking about Brook Lyn’s wardrobe. “She had a baby!” I guess having a baby is the only legit reason for weight gain. Long term medical issues don’t count. I could go on but I will shut up and spare you the rest. I don’t care about her wardrobe because I’m sorry, she’s phoning it in and has been for a long time now.”

“When Kristen Storms first started to gain weight she angrily denied it and started wearing baggy clothes to hide it. I just assumed Kristen Storms weight was a health related issue. She has struggled with endometriosis, cranial cysts, and various maladies for years. I wouldn’t be surprised if she had a hysterectomy and that’s why she has gained weight People need to have a little more grace for people.

WHAT DOES MAXIE FROM GENERAL HOSPITAL SAY ABOUT HER WEIGHT GAIN RUMORS? 

Discussing soap operas and their characters is a favorite pastime for fans, and General Hospital’s Kirsten Storms (Maxie) is no stranger to that. However, this enthusiasm can sometimes overshadow the fact that actors are real people. Storms recently addressed this on social media, where she’s faced constant remarks about her health and weight. Despite sharing a cheerful selfie with outfit details (including a fabulous Gucci bag!), some comments fixated on the picture’s recency and her weight gain. This prompted Storms to speak out.

“I’ve gained a lot of weight since this afternoon when I took this picture?” she responded. “Look, I know what she was saying with her comment. Details about my health and medical conditions are nobody’s business, so I won’t go into my temporary weight gain to satisfy anyone’s thirst. However, I will say that it’s sad to see some people focus only on the status of my body (and when focusing on weight it is never meant in a positive way. ‘Losing’ or ‘gaining’ — it’s a judgement and it’s shameful). I’m healthy and I feel good — at any size, which is what matters to me the most. Comments with a snarky undertone only make me feel sad for the person who typed it and I truly hope their life sucks less tomorrow.”

DOES SHE HAVE ANY HEALTH PROBLEMS? 

Kirsten Storms became a fixture on General Hospital in 2005, bringing life to the character of Maxie Jones. However, in 2011, fans were surprised by her sudden departure from the show. The reason remained shrouded in secrecy, with Jen Lilley taking over the role for an unspecified amount of time. Later, Storms revealed the cause of her absence: endometriosis, a condition causing the growth of uterine tissue outside the uterus and often accompanied by significant pain. This diagnosis led to a year-long hiatus from General Hospital.

Storms’ journey on General Hospital has been punctuated by several breaks. In 2014, she took a joyful hiatus for four months due to pregnancy. However, health concerns continued to impact her schedule. In 2016, stress manifested in skin problems, necessitating another short break. Then, in March 2017, Storms stepped away again for “personal reasons,” returning after six months. While the exact reason for this leave remains unclear, it’s possible her skin condition resurfaced.

Storms’ health challenges continued beyond skin issues. In June 2021, she revealed on Instagram that she’d undergone brain surgery to remove a large cyst causing pressure. This surgery necessitated another break from “General Hospital” to allow for proper recovery.

Kirsten Storms’ openness extends beyond physical health. In 2022, she bravely shared about a challenging two-year period that ultimately led to a diagnosis of Bipolar I disorder. It’s important to note that she clarified it wasn’t just depression, highlighting the complexities of the condition. Additionally, she mentioned that incorrect medication during this time may have exacerbated other health issues, potentially contributing to her weight gain. This transparency showcases the various factors that can influence a person’s weight, reminding us to avoid making assumptions about celebrities or anyone else’s health journey.

Kirsten Storms’ weight has been a topic of public discussion, but the reasons behind it are ultimately her personal business. She’s been vocal about wanting privacy regarding her health, and the criticism she’s faced for both weight loss and gain suggests her body has naturally fluctuated, likely due to various factors. With her history of health struggles and her clear desire to avoid body-focused comments, fans should respect her privacy and well-being by focusing on her work and talent, not her appearance.

KIRSTEN STORMS EARLY LIFE AND CAREER

Storms, originally from Orlando, Florida, grew up in the Greater Orlando area, primarily in Kissimmee, Casselberry, and Sanford. Born to Karen and Mike Storms, a sportscaster for the CBS affiliate WCPX-TV (now WKMG-TV), she showed early signs of her future career aspirations. From the age of five, Storms declared her intention to become a soap opera actress, even though she hadn’t watched one at that point. Encouraged by her experiences visiting her father at work, her parents enrolled her in acting classes where she was discovered by a talent scout.

Her first gig was a commercial for Galoob Baby Doll, followed by appearances in several other commercials. Storms’ television career took off with a recurring role on ABC’s “Second Noah” and a lead role in “Sing Me a Story with Belle.” At the age of twelve, her family relocated to Los Angeles, California, where she landed the recurring role of Laura Cummings on The WB’s “7th Heaven.” During this time, she also secured the title role in Disney Channel’s original movie “Zenon: Girl of the 21st Century,” which became a huge success and spawned two sequels.

Storms continued to build her repertoire with appearances in family shows and television movies, including “The Trojan Horse,” a production by Hallmark, and Disney’s “Johnny Tsunami.” She also lent her voice to Bonnie Rockwaller in the Disney Channel animated series “Kim Possible.” Through these diverse roles, Storms showcased her versatility and talent, solidifying her status as a prominent figure in the world of family entertainment.

KIRSTEN STORMS TELEVISION

After signing on to play Isabella “Belle” Black on NBC’s “Days of Our Lives” on August 5, 1999, Storms faced initial backlash from upset viewers due to the sudden aging of the character. However, she quickly won over the audience and became a popular figure during her five-year tenure on the show. Her portrayal of Belle was marked by notable storylines, including her romantic involvement with Shawn Brady, played by Jason Cook. Storms’ character was heavily promoted as a central figure within the series.

At the end of her contract in 2004, Storms decided not to renew her commitment to “Days of Our Lives.” One contributing factor was her involvement in the primetime series “Clubhouse,” which had picked up her pilot. In “Clubhouse,” which aired on CBS starting in the fall of 2004, Storms portrayed Betsy Young, the rebellious sister of the main character Pete Young (played by Jeremy Sumpter). Unlike her previous role as Belle, Betsy was depicted as a troubled teenager grappling with issues like sex, drugs, and alcohol. Despite Storms’ enthusiasm for the role, “Clubhouse” was canceled after only five episodes aired.

Returning to daytime television, Storms joined the cast of ABC’s “General Hospital” on May 23, 2005, as the third actress to portray Mariah Maximiliana “Maxie” Jones. Her stint on the show included a storyline opposite Jason Cook, who played Matt Hunter. Storms received critical acclaim for her performance, earning an Emmy nomination in 2009. However, she had to leave the role temporarily in fall 2011 due to medical reasons, later revealed to be endometriosis. She was temporarily replaced by Jen Lilley and was expected to return in February 2012, but her illness delayed her comeback. Storms eventually returned to “General Hospital” in September 2012 and later took maternity leave in January 2014, returning later that same year.

In addition to her soap opera work, Storms appeared as Selene Winterthorne in the soap opera web series “Winterthorne” in 2015. Throughout her career, Storms has demonstrated her versatility as an actress, transitioning seamlessly between daytime dramas and other projects.

HAS KIRSTEN STORMS TIED THE KNOT?

Kirsten Storms isn’t married right now. She used to be married to her co-star from “General Hospital,” Brandon Barash, from 2013 to 2016. Kirsten has talked openly about dealing with mental health issues, and her divorce was tough for her. But she’s thankful for the support she got from her loved ones and is focusing on her life. Kirsten Storms is single and concentrating on her acting career and being a mom to her kids. She’s really good at acting and inspires a lot of people.

KIRSTEN STORMS PERSONAL LIFE

In 2013, Kirsten Storms and her co-star from “General Hospital,” Brandon Barash, got married secretly after confirming their relationship. They were excited to welcome their first child, a daughter named Harper Rose Barash, in January 2014. Sadly, they filed for divorce in April 2016 due to differences they couldn’t resolve. Despite this, they decided to raise their daughter together as friends.

Kirsten faced a tough situation in 2007 when she was arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) after tossing a lit cigarette out of her car. She pleaded no contest to the charges, attended Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, completed an alcohol education program, paid fines, and had her license suspended for six months.

Kirsten Storms is also close friends with her co-star Kelly Monaco from “General Hospital.” Their friendship was featured on a reality show called “Dirty Soap” in 2011, which didn’t last long.

FAQ

1. What kind of brain tumor did Kirsten Storms have?

A sizable cyst had been divided into two separate entities.

2. What size is Laura on General Hospital?

A beautiful bride who wears a size 4 dress.

3. How much is Laura net worth?

 $6 million.

CONCLUSION

When talking about sensitive topics like Kirsten Storms’ weight gain, it’s important to be kind and respectful. We should focus on her talents and who she is as a person, rather than just how she looks. People’s bodies can change naturally for different reasons, including health. Sending supportive and positive messages can help everyone feel good about themselves. The most important thing is to be nice, accept others, and understand them.

EMBRACE THE GLOW: A WHOLESOME MAKEOVER JOURNEY

This transformative experience is about more than just changing your appearance; it’s about nurturing your inner self, practicing self-care, and fostering personal growth. A true glow-up occurs when you prioritize the well-being of your mind, body, and soul, allowing your inner beauty and confidence to shine brightly.

In this guide, we will delve into various aspects of a wholesome makeover, including healthy eating habits, effective skincare routines, mindfulness practices, and the importance of setting boundaries. By addressing these key areas, you’ll establish a strong foundation for a balanced, fulfilling, and radiant life.

So, let’s embark on this exciting adventure of self-discovery and transformation, helping you glow like never before!

Healthy Skin Starts from Within

A radiant complexion goes beyond just skincare; it begins from within. The foods you consume and your overall health significantly influence the appearance of your skin. To achieve healthy, glowing skin, it’s essential to maintain a balanced diet filled with whole foods. Incorporating a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats into your daily meals is key. Foods rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy fats can do wonders for your complexion, helping you radiate beauty from the inside out.

Hormones and Skin Health

Hormones significantly impact skin health, with imbalances leading to issues like acne, dryness, and premature aging. Identifying these imbalances and supporting your body’s natural hormonal rhythms is crucial. This can involve adjusting your diet, managing stress levels, and thoughtfully incorporating supplements after proper research.

Healthy Skin Juice Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 cucumber
  • 2 carrots
  • 1 green apple
  • A handful of spinach or kale
  • 1 lemon (peeled)
  • A small piece of ginger (optional)

Instructions:

  • Wash and chop all the ingredients.
  • Run them through a juicer, starting with the leafy greens, followed by the cucumber, carrots, apple, lemon, and ginger.
  • Pour the juice into a glass and enjoy!

This juice is rich in essential vitamins and minerals for skin health. Cucumbers provide hydration, while carrots are high in beta-carotene for a healthy complexion. Apples offer antioxidants to combat free radicals, and leafy greens like spinach and kale deliver vital nutrients. Lemon adds a refreshing dose of vitamin C, and ginger contributes anti-inflammatory benefits.

Skin-Loving Nutrients

Essential Skin-Loving Nutrients. Maintaining a healthy, glowing complexion requires key nutrients that support skin structure, promote cell renewal, and protect against damage:

  • Vitamin A: Found in carrots, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens, it supports cell growth and differentiation.
  • Vitamin C: An antioxidant crucial for collagen production and sun protection, present in oranges, strawberries, kiwis, and bell peppers.
  • Vitamin E: Another antioxidant that shields skin from free radicals, found in almonds, sunflower seeds, and avocados.
  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Essential for skin elasticity and reducing inflammation, sourced from fatty fish like salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts.
  • Zinc: Vital for skin repair, wound healing, and oil control, found in oysters, beef, pumpkin seeds, and lentils.
  • Selenium: An antioxidant that protects against oxidative stress, available in Brazil nuts, tuna, and eggs.
  • Biotin: Also known as vitamin H, it supports healthy skin, hair, and nails, found in foods like…

Invest in Yourself and your Personal Growth

The Importance of Personal Growth in Your Glow-Up Journey. Personal growth is a vital aspect of a holistic glow-up. By dedicating time and energy to learning and self-improvement, you enrich your life and boost your self-worth and confidence. This journey of growth not only enhances your abilities and knowledge but also cultivates a deeper connection with your true self, allowing you to radiate authenticity and positivity.

  • Read Widely: Immerse yourself in books, articles, and podcasts that ignite your curiosity and expand your horizons.
  • Take Online Courses: Enroll in classes or workshops that align with your passions. This will help you acquire new skills and connect with like-minded individuals.
  • Develop Your Skills: Identify your strengths and areas for improvement. Dedicate time to honing your abilities through hobbies, learning a new language, or practicing a musical instrument.

Aesthetics and Personal Style

Embracing Your Unique Aesthetics in a Holistic Glow-Up. A holistic glow-up encompasses inner transformation and the celebration of your unique aesthetics and personal style. By cultivating a look that aligns with your authentic self, you’ll radiate confidence and beauty from the inside out.

Embrace Your Personal Style Every Morning

  • Dress for Success: Choose outfits that make you feel confident, comfortable, and empowered. Invest in quality staples, experiment with new trends, or refine your signature look.
  • Accessorize with Intention: Use jewelry, scarves, or bags to express your personality and elevate your outfits. Thoughtful accessorizing can make you feel polished and put together.
  • Embrace Your Uniqueness: Celebrate your individuality by wearing clothes and accessories that reflect your style, interests, and values. This authentic self-expression boosts your overall sense of well-being and confidence.

By focusing on aesthetics and personal style as part of your holistic glow-up, you’ll enhance your outer beauty and reinforce your inner transformation.

Prioritize Mental Health and Happiness

Nurturing Your Mental Health for a True Glow-Up. To achieve a genuine glow-up, it’s essential to prioritize our mental health and happiness. By embracing self-care and developing a deeper understanding of our emotional needs, we can cultivate a sense of inner peace and harmony. This foundation of mental well-being enhances our overall glow, allowing our true selves to shine brightly.

Cultivate self-awareness and self-compassion:

  • Keep a Journal: Writing down your thoughts and feelings can deepen your emotional understanding and self-awareness.
  • Practice Self-Compassion: Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a friend. Acknowledge your struggles and remember that imperfection is part of being human. Check out our post on how to talk to yourself like someone you love.
  • Engage in Regular Self-Care: Set aside time for activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul, such as meditation, exercise, spending time in nature, or connecting with loved ones.

These practices will help you feel more grounded and at ease, radiating your natural beauty and enhancing your overall well-being.

Embrace Mindfulness and Self-Compassion

Navigating Social Media Pressure with Mindfulness and Self-Compassion. In today’s social media landscape, it’s all too easy to succumb to the pressure of perfection. Comparing ourselves to others’ curated lives can foster feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. To combat this, it’s essential to practice mindfulness and self-compassion. By accepting our imperfections and embracing our unique journeys, we cultivate a healthier self-image and a deeper appreciation for our individuality.

Incorporate Meditation and Breathwork into Daily Life

Cultivating Mindfulness Through Meditation and Breathwork. Meditation and breathwork are powerful tools for fostering mindfulness, self-compassion, and inner peace. By integrating these practices into your daily routine, you can deepen your connection with yourself and achieve greater balance and harmony.

  • Set Aside Time for Daily Meditation: Dedicate a few minutes each day to quiet reflection. This practice can help you cultivate a more mindful and compassionate relationship with your thoughts and emotions.
  • Explore Different Meditation Techniques: Experiment with styles like loving-kindness, body scan, or guided visualizations to find the approach that resonates with you.
  • Practice Breathwork: Engage in focused breathing exercises, such as deep belly breathing or alternate nostril breathing, to reduce stress and promote a sense of calm.

By releasing the pressure for perfection and attuning to your unique path, you’ll embody the true essence of a wholesome makeover.

Sync with Your Cycle

Harnessing Your Natural Rhythm with “In the FLO”. An enlightening resource to help you tap into the power of your natural rhythm is Alisa Vitti’s book, “In the FLO.” This groundbreaking work explores the concept of cycle syncing, which involves aligning your daily activities, diet, and self-care routines with the various phases of your menstrual cycle. By attuning to your body’s unique hormonal fluctuations, you can achieve optimal health, energy, and overall well-being.

Embrace Your Cycle for a Holistic Glow-Up

  • Educate Yourself: Learn about the four phases of your menstrual cycle—menstrual, follicular, ovulatory, and luteal—and the hormonal changes that occur during each stage.
  • Listen to Your Body: Tune in to the physical and emotional sensations throughout your cycle. This awareness can help you understand your body’s needs better.
  • Adapt Your Routine: Modify your daily activities, exercise, and diet to align with each phase. For example, focus on gentle activities during your menstrual phase and gradually increase workout intensity during the follicular and ovulatory phases.
  • Practice Self-Compassion: Recognize that energy levels and moods fluctuate throughout your cycle. Allow yourself to adapt your self-care routines and expectations as needed.

By syncing your life with your hormonal cycle, you’ll foster a deeper connection with your body, leading to choices that enhance your health and well-being. Embracing this natural rhythm will help you radiate an inner glow of harmony and balance.

Skincare Practices

Essential Skincare Practices for a Wholesome Glow. No wholesome makeover is complete without caring for your skin, as it plays a key role in both your appearance and well-being. Incorporating the right skincare practices can help you achieve a radiant, healthy glow:

  • Cold Face Rollers: These tools can reduce inflammation, soothe the skin, and boost circulation. For an extra refreshing and de-puffing effect, store your face roller in the fridge before use.
  • Gua Sha: This ancient Chinese technique involves gently scraping a smooth, flat tool across your skin to promote blood flow, lymphatic drainage, and muscle tension relief. Incorporating gua sha into your skincare routine can enhance your natural glow and encourage relaxation.
  • Dry Brushing: Using a dry, natural bristle brush on your skin exfoliates dead cells, improves circulation, and stimulates lymphatic drainage. Try dry brushing before your shower to achieve smooth, radiant skin.
  • Hyaluronic Acid: This powerful moisture-retaining ingredient helps keep your skin hydrated and plump. Look for skincare products with hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture and enhance your skin’s overall appearance.
  • Niacinamide: Also known as vitamin B3, niacinamide strengthens the skin’s barrier, reduces redness, and improves texture. Adding niacinamide to your skincare routine can support healthy, glowing skin.

The Importance of Clean Skincare Products. Choosing clean, non-toxic skincare products is vital for your skin’s health and overall well-being. Many conventional products contain hormone-disrupting chemicals like parabens and phthalates, which can disrupt your hormonal balance. Next, let’s explore how to create the perfect morning skincare routine.

Create Morning and Evening Routines

Establishing mindful morning and evening routines can help you maintain balance and harmony throughout your day. Dedicating time to self-care and relaxation supports your overall well-being and cultivates a radiant inner glow.

To improve your sleep quality and enhance your mood, consider reducing exposure to blue light emitted by screens.

  • Limit Screen Time: Aim to stop using screens at least an hour before bedtime. Instead, engage in calming activities like reading, journaling, or practicing gentle stretches.
  • Use Blue Light Filters: If you need to use screens in the evening, consider blue light filtering apps or wearing blue light-blocking glasses to minimize sleep disruption.

Make Time for Meditation in The Morning And Relaxing Activities in The Evening

Mindful Morning and Evening Routines. Start your day by setting a clear intention and engaging in positive habits. Consider avoiding news and social media in the first hour, meditating, journaling, or practicing gratitude. Gentle stretching, deep breathing, or simply enjoying a quiet cup of coffee or tea can also enhance your morning routine, setting the stage for a fulfilling day.

End your day with a calming night routine to promote relaxation and rejuvenation. Turn off electronic devices and avoid screens an hour before bed. Engage in gentle yoga, take a warm bath, or listen to soothing music. You might also enjoy reading, journaling your thoughts, or sipping a warm cup of herbal tea.

CONCLUSION

Embracing Your Holistic Glow-Up Journe. The path to a holistic glow-up involves enhancing your appearance, discovering your authentic self, and embracing your unique journey. Remember, the journey is as important as the destination. Take time to pause, reflect, and celebrate your progress as you transform into the most radiant version of yourself. Embrace self-love and compassion, and let your inner light shine brightly for all to see.