Got ink?…

Where my previous posts up to this point have been about personal/professional growth, let me share something a little personal about me and my ink.

First, Here are some interesting facts about tattoos:

Ancient Practice: Tattoos have been around for thousands of years. The oldest evidence of tattooing dates back to around 5,200 years ago and was found on the body of Ötzi the Iceman, a natural mummy from the Copper Age.

Cultural Significance: Tattoos have held various meanings and cultural significance across different civilizations and periods. They have been used for rituals, religious purposes, status symbols, and as forms of personal expression.

Tattooing Techniques: Throughout history, tattooing techniques have evolved significantly. Traditional methods include hand-tapping or using sharpened sticks, while modern techniques involve electric tattoo machines.

Ink Composition: Tattoo ink is composed of pigments suspended in a carrier solution. Historically, natural pigments like carbon (soot) or minerals were used, but today synthetic pigments are more common.

Popularity: The popularity of tattoos has surged in recent decades, with estimates suggesting that around 30% of Americans have at least one tattoo. It's a trend seen worldwide across various demographics.

Tattoo Removal: While tattoos are often considered permanent, there are now several methods for tattoo removal, including laser removal, surgical excision, and dermabrasion. However, these methods can be costly and may not completely erase the tattoo.

Health Risks: Getting a tattoo involves puncturing the skin with needles, which carries some health risks, including infections and allergic reactions. It's essential to choose a reputable tattoo artist and follow proper aftercare procedures to minimize these risks.

Tattoo Artistry: Tattoos are considered a form of art, and there are numerous styles and techniques employed by tattoo artists worldwide, ranging from traditional to modern, realistic to abstract.

These facts demonstrate the rich history, cultural significance, and evolving nature of tattoos as a form of personal expression and body art.

OK, now some insight into my tattoos.

For me, tattoos hold significance when they're accompanied by a meaningful story. I've always cherished conversations with people whose tattoos carry a deep narrative, as opposed to those who simply got inked because it seemed appealing or as a result of a spontaneous night out. However, I hold no judgment toward those whose tattoo tales are more straightforward.

I have three tattoos, each carrying personal significance, but they're visible only when I'm in a bikini. These tattoos are solely for myself, not for display. They symbolize pivotal moments in my life, serving as markers for significant changes I've experienced. Currently, I have no intentions of getting another tattoo, but if that changes, you'll be the first to know

I got my first tattoo at the age of 18 or 19, following a night of celebration for my cousin's birthday at a club in Camden, London, UK. Admiring my cousin's ink, he casually asked, "Do you want one?" Without hesitation, I responded with a resounding "yes!" Within 24 hours, I found myself perched on a chair at 'Original Skin' in North London, clinging to a lollipop for dear life as the tattoo artist inked the design I had chosen from their portfolio, all while engaging me in conversation about my studies.

This may seem impulsive, but it was far from it. Just a month before my cousin's birthday, we had ended years of silence following a rift caused by a disagreement between friends. Before that falling out, we had been close, and the separation/silent treatment had deeply affected me. Reuniting with my cousin felt like a significant milestone, and getting the tattoo together with my cousins seemed like the perfect way to mark our family's reconciliation.

The tattoo itself holds symbolic significance, representing both sides of my family.

Tattoo number 2 represents the year I was born and not only is it my favorite animal, but the symbolism of it is everything I needed and got me through the year I got it. The apex predator is seen as representing freedom, independence, power, and strength.

Tattoo number 3 I got after I visited New Orleans where I decided to create change in my life and the soul of the city moved me in a direction to make that change. I remember staying at the New Orleans Marriott Hotel taking the elevator down to the main lobby to meet some friends to celebrate my 30th birthday. I had such an amazing time with them, going to a restaurant just off Bourbon Street (Broussard) and dancing my way back to the hotel to the live bands playing on the streets, I hadn’t felt that happy in a few years and it hit me that if I let go of few things I was clinging onto I’d find myself in a better place emotionally, mentally and physically. However, like with any bad habit, it takes time and after my work trip to New Orleans, the fleur de lis appeared everywhere else I went in the world it reminded me of the peace I experienced that night of my birthday, it encouraged me to think of a new beginning and the courage to let go of all I needed to in order to fully experience it.

Months later, I discovered that St. Malo, Louisiana was the first permanent Filipino settlement in the United States. This revelation deepened my connection to the state, as it shed light on the rich history of Filipino sailors, known as Manilamen, who ventured from their ships to seek opportunities along the Gulf Coast. This historical link between the Philippines and Louisiana, both Spanish colonies in the late 18th century, resonated with me, highlighting the enduring legacy of Filipino seafarers in shaping the maritime history of the region.

Tattoos can serve as portals into individuals' narratives, each inked symbol representing a chapter, a moment, or a piece of history they cherish and never wish to forget.

If you plan to get a tattoo, I recommend you really think about what you plan to get on your body and why you’re getting it. Do your due diligence and speak to close friends or family who have tattoos and can talk through their experience. Look for a reputable tattoo artist, check out their work and even go for a consultation with ideas you have in mind. This is going to be on your body forever so, make sure you know what you’re getting yourself into because, although we have the technology and tools for tattoos to be removed now, I think we’re still a while away from there being a pain-free removal process. I have heard that the removal procedure is worse than getting the tattoo so, please, think it all over before you go through with it.