As for hobbies, now that I’m home, I am looking forward to picking
back up one or more of the creative pursuits I’ve enjoyed in the past,
such as sewing, beading, and crocheting. I may decide try out some
new ones such as ceramics or painting. I love playing ping-pong
and have a table here at home. I love taking in the sights in my area,
including the ancient Mayan ruins, cenotes, haciendas, and colonial
architecture. I’m also an avid reader, and I enjoy movies, music, and
dancing.
SD: What would you like other piercers to know that they might not
know about you?
EA: Due to my job and appearance (lots of visible body art and no
hair) I’m sometimes mistaken for someone who is hip, cool, or some
kind of rebel or outlaw. But people who really know me would be far
more likely to describe me as…a nerd. I do self-identify as one—but
not in a disparaging way. It is simply factual: I’m nerdy and proud of it.
They might also say I’m a bit of a “health nut.” My piercings and
tattoos are a celebration of my body, and I also honor it through
healthful living. That’s something I’d really like to see more piercers
get into.
I’m focused on all aspects of wellness. I meditate daily, eat a vegan/
gluten-free diet of fresh, healthy foods, workout regularly, stay
hydrated, get enough sleep, and avoid substance abuse. I notice that
a lot of piercers don’t take care of themselves, and that’s a shame.
At the age of 55, I’m in the best physical condition of my life! I feel
fantastic, have super energy, and through my good habits, I’m giving
myself the best chance for a long, healthy life that I can fully enjoy.
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SD: What advice do you think that most new piercers and studios
should be aware of as they start out?
EA: Be aware that our primary concern is not with needles and
jewelry—it is with people. In case you have any illusions, piercing
isn’t an “easy” or get-rich-quick job! To thrive, it takes energy, focus,
dedication, competence, and more.
Piercing is an industry in which is it possible to always continue
growing and learning. Even today, every single time I pierce, I give my
maximum effort to perform the smoothest, gentlest, quickest, most
accurate piercing ever. A true professional will pursue knowledge
and information throughout their career. I don’t know everything there
is to know about piercing, and neither does anybody else. I attend
conferences to learn as well as to teach. Always keep studying and
striving.