Start from the inside out
Many women find it hard to stick to a proper diet and exercise regimen while holding down a job and raising a family. Most don`t even notice the signs of their neglect until the children are nearly grown and they have some time to themselves, and figure that it is too late to do anything about it. The good news is that it is never too late to get healthier and into better shape. Changing one`s eating habits and starting an exercise program mid-life may seem like a huge undertaking, but it can be done in small steps.
- Start by walking each day, and avoiding fast foods
- Join a gym and start an exercise program designed specially for you
- Gradually add more fresh fruit, vegetables and whole grains into your diet
- Eat several small meals throughout the day instead of three larger meals
- Drink more water
Skin
Over time skin can begin to appear saggy and sallow looking. Gently exfoliating facial skin 2-3 times each week and keeping the skin properly hydrated will give your skin a healthy glow.
- Choose facial creams that are not oil based. The Olay Regenerist line of products are affordable and deliver what they promise.
- Stay out of the sun. Nothing is worse for your skin than exposure to the sun. If you want a sun kissed glow, opt for a bronzer instead.
- Keep makeup to a minimum. A little concealer, bronzer and lipstick or gloss will give a youthful look, but overdoing it can make you look older.
Brighten your smile
Your smile is one of the first things that people will notice, and nothing says youthful like a nice bright smile. Have your dentist whiten and brighten your smile, or do it yourself with one of the many products on the market. Crest Whitestrips are affordable and effective.
Hair
As we age our hair not only gets grey, it begins to get thinner. Thin, lifeless hair that has no body sits too close to the face and can make your skin look dull. Covering greys, adding highlights and having your hair cut in layers will take years off of your appearance immediately.
*Tip. When coloring your hair always go a shade or two lighter. Going darker will make you look older.
Nails
Hands and feet show signs of aging like any other part of the body. Splurge on a manicure and pedicure. (Or even a day at the spa) Always keep the skin on hands and feet exfoliated and moisturized. Sally Hansen hand and nail products are a good option.
Wardrobe
Nothing says “old” like clothes that are drab, out of date, ill fitting . Study some of the fashion magazines and take yourself shopping: but be wise. Going overboard and dressing like a teenager is a big mistake. Just because you are trying to look younger and can fit into an outfit that looked good on the 20 year old model in the magazine does not mean that you should buy it. Look for styles, colors and fabrics that will accentuate your body style, no matter what size you are. You do not have to be a size four to look good.
Accessories are important too. Choose shoes that are stylish yet still comfortable and a handbag that sets off your wardrobe. Even a well put together outfit can look bad when you are hauling around a huge handbag that makes you look like Mary Poppins.
*When shopping for your wardrobe don`t forget what is underneath. Get yourself some pretty under-things. Nobody else will see them, but you`ll feel better knowing you have them on.
Outlook
Perhaps the most important part of staying youthful is our outlook on life. Positive thinking not only makes life easier to deal with, it has also been proven to be beneficial to our health. So, if you find yourself feeling down about something, try to turn it around and make it positive.
Note. The effectiveness of the products mentioned are based solely on my opinion after using them.
