A PURA Muse is a woman who inspires us with their content, business, work ethic, values or beliefs. This woman is aligned with the goals and motivations that we strive for each day here at PURA Botanicals (if they are already a PURA lover, it makes it all the better!). Our monthly muse is working to elevate their community through their business, volunteerism, or their commitment to wellness, and they consistently advocate for well-being & intentional living.

The PURA Muse February 2021: Georgina Reilly

Tell us a bit about yourself and your journey as an actor…

I was born in Guildford, UK and moved to Toronto when I was 16 years old. As part of an artistic family (my father was a songwriter/composer), I was encouraged to pursue creative endeavors and was always involved in my school’s annual theater production. After finishing highschool in Canada, I decided to pursue acting. Even though I was often asked about attending university, both my head and my heart were urging me down the acting path. With the support of my parents, I attended acting classes, cold called an agent, had an interview and started going out on auditions. I was fortunate to have grown up in an environment where I was able to have a ‘normal’ childhood and also be surrounded by like-minded, creative and disciplined individuals. We always had dinner as a family and I firmly believe that this was a big part of cultivating who I am as a person both personally and professionally.

I love the Miles Davis quote: “Man, it takes you a long time to sound like yourself.” This resonates with me as I have become more comfortable in my own skin, maturing as an individual, a wife, a mother, and an artist. Lately, I think of myself as bringing something valuable to the table instead of acting solely to please someone else. Being an artist is a constant balancing act of hustle and opportunity; realizing how I can work hard to improve my craft, but also recognizing that there are also circumstances beyond my control. Through the ups and downs of being an actor, I have recognized the importance of surrounding myself with people who are a constant source of support, encouragement and inspiration. 

What film or television shows have we seen you in recently? Anything in the works?  

I was most recently shooting a romantic comedy series in Puerto Rico called The Baker and the Beauty (Hulu) which was so much fun! I was also on Season 1 of City on a Hill on Showtime. In 2019, I starred opposite my real-life husband, Mark O’Brien in the Canadian indie production, Goalie, which is a biographical sports film about goaltender Terry Sawchuk. In Canada, I am probably best known for my long standing role as Dr. Grace on Murdoch Mysteries. 

COVID has slowed things down for the past year, but I have still been working on so many self-tape auditions at home. The film industry seems to be slowly coming back which is hopeful. 

As your family and your career have grown, how do you think your definition of ‘self-care’ has changed? How are you practising self-care during the current pandemic?

Admittedly, my younger self was definitely more resilient but I am thankful to have always been a healthy person. Self-care has always been in the forefront of my mind since my face and body are integral to my career as an actor. I think self-care comes in so many forms the most important being spiritually, which bleeds into diet, skincare, or even being organized. Recently, I’ve seen how the keto diet helped me reset and make better decisions. 

The whole self-care mantra can sometimes feel overwhelming when you are bombarded with it on your phone. The hidden blessing in COVID is that it has given me time to slow down and re-evaluate. I have found that organizing my home can be such a great form of self-care because it brings me a sense of calm and efficiency. Sometimes the little actions add up to having a better life. COVID has also taught me to re-evaluate relationships and I have been able to recognize and withdraw from social circles that are not as supportive or uplifting. During this time, I have been intentionally focused on fostering the positive relationships in my life by sending meaningful snail mail as well as encouraging gifts to my friends and family and generally trying to leave the spaces that I am in better than when I found them.  

You met your actor/director husband, Mark O’Brien, on set several years ago. What do you believe are the key ingredients to maintaining your romantic relationship both before and during the current pandemic? 

Mark and I have been married for 8 years. One of the keys to our relationship is that we are constantly talking to each other and allowing the other person in the relationship to be fully heard. Before the pandemic, once a week date nights were our lifeline! It was great to be able to talk to one another without the interruptions that come with parenthood. 

During the pandemic, we have been home so much more. Truthfully, it has been difficult to not be working as frequently, but we have been able to appreciate each other’s company in person more than when we were constantly travelling. At the present, we are focusing on the positives and enjoying this ‘new routine’ of life together since we know it won’t last forever. 

Describe your AM/PM skincare routine. What is your favourite PURA product? 

I’ve always been one to take good care of my skin and I have found COVID to be a great time to experiment with new routines and products. In the morning, I usually cleanse with micellar water. I then apply a vitamin C moisturizer (PURA's Princess Clementine Lite and Riche as well as our Overnight Mango Mask are packed with this powerful antioxidant) , sunscreen (embracing my pale skin) and sometimes finish with an oil if my skin is feeling dry (PURA's Ambrosia Beautifying Serum and Radiant Face Drops are perfect compliments to any skincare regimen).

In the evening, I usually double cleanse. First with an oil cleanser and then with a gentle exfoliant (PURA's Exotic Pink Coffee Dust is a mild exfoliating mask). I have a “pamper box” in the corner of my bedroom that is filled with all my skincare secret weapons. After our daughter goes to bed, I unwind with my husband by watching television or a movie and I usually pull out a sheet mask or my LED light mask from my box for the evening. When it is time for bed, I always sleep with a silk pillowcase and bring it with me when I travel. 

I am fairly new to PURA Botanicals, but anything with hyaluronic acid and collagen gets me excited so I was delighted by PURA's Hyaluronic Ruby Serum. Thus far, my favourite product is PURA's Overnight Watermelon Mask. As a mom, I love overnight masks since they work their magic when I am finally off my feet. 

When it is safe to jump on a plane again, where is the first place you will be going? 

I cannot wait to get back to New York City. When I was last there, I loved the feeling of community, even during COVID. I truly enjoy being around people and NYC is like a warm embrace. 

*Photos by K. Spencer Jones and Karmen Meyer Photography