Former Miss USA Asya Branch Shares Swimsuit Photo From Pageant Victory

Miss USA 2020 Asya Branch is looking fondly back on the time she was crowned Miss Mississippi in 2018, posting throwback pictures of the victory. Branch, 25, shared images of herself on stage, posing in a black bikini and overcome with joy after being crowned the winner. “It’s crazy to think that it’s been 5 years since I was crowned Miss Mississippi! What a life changing experience that was; I am forever grateful to every single person that poured into me and played a role in my journey to becoming Miss Mississippi as well as those who supported me throughout that year and beyond,” she captioned the post. Here’s how Branch has been building success upon success since her win.

1. Ankle Weights

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Branch travels with dumbbells and ankle weights so she can work out wherever she is. “I do these crunches where my torso is pretty much twisted, with my legs to the side,” she says, adding that she does 100 repetitions in the mornings and afternoons. “It really helps tighten the obliques without getting them wider, which helps give the illusion of a cinched waist.”

2. No To Cardio

Branch admits to having a strong dislike for any sort of cardio workout. “I have ran the stairs a couple of times [in the apartment building], but then I realized I’ve always hated cardio,” she says. “And so then I was like, that was not the right move. I do my ab workouts. I have some dumbbells. I’m just trying to stay on track, but I’m not going to lie, I have good genetics! I eat pretty clean, naturally, but I do order in…”

3. She Loves To Sing

Branch is passionate about music, singing, and performing (no wonder she won Miss USA!). "I've honestly been singing since I could speak," she says. "When I was younger, I called myself mini Beyoncé. My family really had me up about it. It's just where I find my joy. The arts, music—it's what truly makes me happy, and I feel like music can get you through anything."

4. Skin and Hair Care Secrets

Branch takes good care of her skin and hair, focusing on cleanliness and hydration. “My skin is typically my number-one priority; I think having a smooth canvas without makeup just helps all around,” she says. “You will be able to go barefaced and feel truly confident. “I get a couple of blemishes here and there and I treat them, but I really just focus on always washing my makeup off, and keeping my skin cleansed and hydrated. I silk wrap [my hair] it every night before bed and I like to keep it hydrated with oils. I currently have a Brazilian Blowout which helps keep my hair smooth and sleek, especially in this southern humidity.”

5. Black Girl Magic

Branch says winning Miss USA gave her a huge confidence boost. “[My] swag maybe went up a notch or two,” she says. “I will definitely say [the win] helped my self-esteem and confidence. I may have a little more swag in my walk. I just describe my black girl magic as just being real. I think that everything I’ve been through has been real and has been relatable. So I’ll be able to share that with the world. It’s inspiring to myself to break through these barriers; it’s real and it’s me.”