Mayan Lopez, the star and producer of NBC's "Lopez vs. Lopez," has become a prominent voice in the body positivity movement while also sharing her personal journey with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Through her work on screen and her openness about her own experiences, Lopez is making a significant impact on how we view body image and women's health.
Embracing Body Positivity and Authenticity
Lopez has been candid about her body image journey and has observed a positive shift in how body positivity is viewed. She notes that more people are openly accepting their bodies, and there's a growing emphasis on honesty and authenticity, with fewer filters being used online. Online communities are emerging to provide support and security, encouraging individuals to embrace their true selves and feel less alone.
"Being real is becoming more powerful than being perfect," Lopez asserts, highlighting the importance of self-acceptance and genuine representation.
Red Carpet Glamour and Personal Style
Despite her "sitcom mom" mode, Mayan Lopez enjoys experimenting with fun and glamorous looks. She recalls a memorable "quinceañera" episode where she sported extensions, a hair bump, and a tiara, an experience she never had in real life. Another episode featured a "Euphoria"-inspired makeover, allowing her character to rediscover her identity beyond motherhood.
On the red carpet, Lopez has showcased her curves in ribbed dresses with colorful patterns from Gianni, embracing her figure and highlighting her personal style. She also favors brands like Zagid and Voltaire and Ted Baker. When styling herself, she often makes quick trips to Bloomingdale's to find something that catches her eye.
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Wellness Practices for a Balanced Life
Balancing her roles as an actress and producer can be demanding, so Mayan relies on the Headspace app for daily meditation and breathing exercises. This practice helps her transition from work to "me" time and cultivate mindfulness without self-judgment. She also finds relaxation and self-love in her skincare routine, using products from Shani Darden, Lush bath bombs, and Sol de Janeiro lotions and body scrubs.
Addressing PCOS and Women's Health
Mayan Lopez has bravely shared her experience with PCOS, a hormonal disorder that affects many women. She was diagnosed at 23, after years of painful periods, unexplained weight gain, and excessive facial hair growth. Before her diagnosis, she struggled with bulimia and eating disorders, all symptoms related to her undiagnosed PCOS.
PCOS affects a significant percentage of women, yet many remain unaware of their condition. Symptoms can include painful periods, hair loss, depression, and anxiety. It's also a leading cause of infertility.
Lopez emphasizes the importance of discussing PCOS openly and providing a platform for women to share their experiences. She credits Dr. Thais Aliabadi with uncovering her condition and helping her take control of her health.
Understanding PCOS Criteria
Doctors typically use three criteria to diagnose PCOS, requiring two out of three symptoms for a positive diagnosis:
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- Painful, irregular menstrual cycles
- Polycystic ovaries (distinctive shape on ultrasound)
- Elevated levels of testosterone (symptoms include hair loss and acne)
PCOS can disrupt carbohydrate processing, leading to increased insulin levels and testosterone production. This creates a cycle of systemic problems, affecting the gut, brain, and genetics.
Proactive Steps for Health
Mayan Lopez and Dr. Aliabadi encourage women to proactively seek information and advocate for themselves at the doctor's office. Recommendations include:
- Asking for an Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) blood test to determine egg count
- Requesting a laparoscopy to test for endometriosis
- Undergoing a clinical evaluation and pelvic ultrasound to check for PCOS
- Considering a genetic test to assess family history of breast cancer
Cosmetic Surgery and Self-Acceptance
Mayan candidly shared that she underwent cosmetic surgery after losing 100 pounds, emphasizing that it was a personal decision for her own happiness. She had a breast lift and tummy tuck to address loose skin and muscle tightening resulting from her weight loss.
Lopez acknowledged that her weight has fluctuated over the years, and the extra skin made her feel uncomfortable. She paid for the surgery out of pocket and expressed gratitude for being able to do so.
She clarified that the surgery was not about achieving a size 0 or eliminating her curves but rather about feeling more comfortable in her body. "I love my curves. I don’t want to get rid of my curves," she stated.
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Healing Through Comedy: "Lopez vs. Lopez"
"Lopez vs. Lopez" is not just a typical sitcom; it's a series inspired by the real-life relationship between Mayan and her father, George Lopez. The show bravely shares their challenging moments and has resonated with many viewers who have similar family dynamics.
The series follows Mayan and George as they navigate their reunited relationship after a long estrangement. The characters, fictionalized versions of themselves, experience growth and healing throughout the show.
In the finale of Season 2, the family attends therapy after George relapses. This pivotal moment leads to a shift in accepting therapy as a means of healing. Mayan also comes to terms with her aversion to marriage, realizing it stems from her experiences growing up with George as her father.
Mayan's Perspective on Commitment and Healing
Mayan shared that working on the show has helped her family heal. She noted that her character's journey has inspired her to be open to giving her father more chances in real life.
She also revealed that the proposal scene in the finale was significant for her. She fought to have both characters propose to each other, symbolizing their mutual commitment.
Emotional Moments and Personal Growth
Mayan described an intense scene where the family gets to hit a piñata resembling George. She recalled wondering whether her father was genuinely crying during the scene and how moved the live studio audience was by their art.
Seeing herself in a wedding dress for the first time was also an emotional experience for Mayan. She realized that she could imagine herself getting married and considered it a milestone in her life.
The Future of "Lopez vs. Lopez"
As of now, the show's renewal is uncertain. Mayan hopes for a third season that revolves around the wedding of her character and Quinten. She envisions exploring the dynamics between Rosie and George, as well as the wedding planning process.