A Mini Moment With: Model-Actress Danielle Alcaraz
By Miss GrassIf Danielle Alcaraz looks familiar, that’s because you’ve probably seen her somewhere before. Maybe when she was a dancer for Kanye West’s North American YEEZUS tour. Or maybe when she appeared in the September 2020 issue of Playboy. (Her own boyfriend shot the pics.) Or maybe even on our own Instagram account, where she sometimes turns up to advocate on behalf of our favorite plant. “I would describe myself as independent, confident, sensual, and creative; my work is a reflection of that,” she says. “I’m into putting out work that makes me happy and is authentic.”
Here, the Los Angeles-based model-actress shares her thoughts on body positivity and how she uses weed to stay centered.
When it comes to confidence and body positivity, what is the best advice you’ve received?
Everyone comes in different shapes and sizes. So embrace being different, being unique, and be proud that there’s no one like you. Imagine how boring the world would be if we all looked the same. Also, we never know what someone else is going through so be mindful of how we treat each other. We all have insecurities but the work starts on the inside and your relationship with yourself should always be a priority.
"Being an earth sign, cannabis and I just understand each other."
How did you discover cannabis?
Growing up in L.A., it was just a part of the culture. So I learned pretty quickly what cannabis was. My first time smoking was with my dad. I took a hit from a pipe and it instantly came out of my nose. Being an earth sign, cannabis and I just understand each other. I’ve been smoking recreationally on and off since I was a teenager but only recently started using it to further my spiritual practices.
What’s your consumption ritual?
Lately I tend to smoke in the evening when I’m home alone. It gets me inspired to start cleaning, stretching, or cooking. Otherwise, I love walks in nature with my camera. I find so much inspiration in nature's patterns, colors, and textures. I have Miss Grass pre-rolls for every mood and I tend to use hybrids to keep me balanced.
"Cannabis helps me not ignore all the tight, stiff, painful feelings in my body."
What has cannabis helped you most with?
Cannabis helps me not ignore all the tight, stiff, painful feelings in my body. It helps me go deep into my physical state and makes me aware of what needs attention. I’m so much more sensitive when I’m high so I am careful to protect my energy and what I consume. I keep my mood light with so many grounding tools like ambient tones, oracle cards, essential oils, and lots of palo santo.
"I’ve been raised to believe in magic, manifestations, and the power of thought."
Speaking of rituals, we know you’re into astrology and healing work. How did you get into that?
My mom has taught me a lot about energy and healing work—she’s always been a source of spiritual knowledge so I’ve been raised to believe in magic, manifestations, and the power of thought. After implementing practices—like intention setting, visualization, using affirmations, and simple moon rituals—I saw my life begin to shift for the highest good. Cannabis fits well into this kind of lifestyle as it heightens all your senses.
What’s an easy re-centering ritual anyone can do?
I would recommend starting with playing some high frequency music. There are different tones that can lift your vibration subconsciously just by listening to them. (Try ‘Meditative Mind’ on YouTube.) Sit in a cross-legged position or lay down; focus on your breath inhaling and exhaling slowly and deeply. Place one hand on your heart, one hand on your stomach and say any affirmation that you feel called to. Repeat it out loud or in your head while you focus on your breath for three to five minutes. Visualize what it would be like to be in the space of what you’re calling in. How does it look, feel, smell, sound like? Some affirmations I use:
- My choices and possibilities are expanding every day.
- I focus on what I love and thus draw it to me
- I spend quiet reflective time; I hear my inner guidance
I’m currently reading Healthy Living From The Inside Out by Mariel Hemingway and so far so good. It’s about nutrition and having awareness in our lifestyle. What we eat and drink affects how we feel everyday and exercise not only helps us stay in shape but keeps us connected to ourselves. I’m really focused on long term health and feel this is a good read to gain more knowledge on holistic living.
If everyone did this, the world would be a better place:
Practice having compassion. Spend more time in nature.
If you had a billboard, what would you want it to say?
“If you want the best the world has to offer, offer the world your best.“—Maya Angelo
Random or not-so-random thing you’ve been thinking about lately?
Should I just pierce my ears or keep wearing clip-ons?
How do you define success?
Success is freedom. Financial freedom, yes, but it’s also having freedom within your own mind, body, and soul.