Cam models have the unique ability to make fans forget about their problems and escape into a virtual private island of pleasure, far from the cares and worries that stress them out in their everyday lives. It’s a break from reality that many fans rely on to help them through the tough times. But what happens when a model is going through a tough time of their own?
In a perfect world, everyone would be able to take time off when they’re in a bad place mentally and return when they’re feeling better. Alas, this world is far from perfect, and many models have no choice but to work through bad breakups, family issues, health problems and world events that make it hard to focus on the task at hand.
Light a scented candle during shows to enhance the sensual mood and help you relax.
This is easier said than done, as cam modeling is not the type of job where you can close your office door and hide from the world as you sort your feelings out. Instead, models often have to smile through it to provide their fans with the much-needed sanctuary they crave.
So, how do you power through on days when the last thing you want to do is work? Here are a few things you can do right now to put yourself in a better mindset so you can keep working, even when you’re not feeling like yourself.
Put Your Freakum Dress On
It sounds so simple, but the act of spending a little extra time on yourself can work wonders for your mood. Yet, for whatever reason, it’s the first thing we forget to do when we’re feeling hurt or anxious. Take the time to put on your sexiest outfit, your favorite heels and beat your face to the gods. Don’t forget the lipstick, either, because it’s a scientific fact that certain lipstick colors can evoke emotional responses that make you feel better.
A study done by Women’s Health magazine shows that neutral lip colors channel warmth and calm, while bright colors like orange and fuchsia make you feel more daring and confident. If you feel like you need to remind folks who the eff they’re dealing with, go for a bright red that makes you feel like the most powerful voice in the room. Once you’re all glammed up and feeling like the supermodel you are, don’t forget to do the runway walk a few times.
Feel the Music
Music is one of the most powerful tools you can use to set the tone in your room, but it can also elevate your mood and help put you in control of your emotions. Research shows that upbeat songs increase dopamine in the brain, reminding you of good times past and making you feel hopeful for all the good times to come.
Our internal systems tend to sync up with the rhythms of the music we’re listening to, so if your energy is low after a sleepless night, turn on something upbeat and just dance. If you’re feeling anxious, try something softer and more soothing to ease your nerves and help you create a tranquil and sensual experience for both you and your fans.
Treat Yourself
Retail therapy is usually the first thing that comes to mind when people want to spoil themselves, but there are other methods you can try if you don’t want to spend your hard-earned cash. If you’re feeling overwhelmed on cam, take a break to get an iced coffee, take a hot bubble bath, or get some snuggles from your favorite furry friend. If that something just so happens to be retail therapy, that’s OK too, because science!
Splurging on something you love has been shown in studies to make you happier, which doesn’t just apply to luxury purchases. So, if you can’t drop a few thousand dollars on a new Celine bag, you can still get the same benefits from smaller indulgences. If your worries are financial, this may be an excellent time to remind fans about your Amazon wish list or even use gift cards you got over the holidays for something you want as opposed to something you need.
Just Breathe
You’ll be surprised at how much better you feel if you remember to stop what you’re doing and take a deep breath every now and then. Inhale for five seconds, hold the breath in for five seconds, then exhale for five seconds. Repeat this a few times, and you’ll drastically reduce that tight feeling you get in your chest when you’re anxious about something.
Candle Therapy
Light a scented candle during shows to enhance the sensual mood and help you relax. Any scent that contains vanilla can boost your mood and make you feel more at ease. Ever been so anxious that you feel like your heart is about to beat right out of your chest? Lavender can slow your heart rate down and calm your nervous system. The same goes for any scent that makes you feel nostalgic, and if that includes trendier scents like pumpkin spice, then go for it. Cinnamon scents improve your concentration, which helps when you’re trying to focus on your fans and not the things that are stressing you out in your downtime.
Reclaim Your Inner Peace
It’s hard to unplug when you’re a cam model, but when you’re feeling down about something, don’t be afraid to unplug from anything or anyone that disturbs your inner peace. Stay off social media that day if you have to, and don’t hesitate to block anyone who causes you distress. Many models will tell you that blocking out negativity is the best form of self-care when you’re trying to have a good day on cam.
It's OK Not to be OK
There will be some days when nothing works, and that’s OK too. Just remember: this too shall pass.
Jackie Backman is the Content Manager for Cams.com. She has been working in the industry for over 14 years and specializes in copywriting, beauty and social media management. Follow Jackie on Instagram at @beautychaoticofficial.