In these trying economic times, it is becoming increasingly difficult to maintain that healthy glow on a shoe string. Recently, in a popular magazine, some well known celebrities admitted to using Botox. Most of these men and women weren’t even 50 years old! I realize that all of these people have not only succumbed to the evils of Hollywood, but they also have the money. Those of us in the “real world” do not have that luxury. And keep in mind, must use those hard earned dollars on more important items like food, electricity, shelter and medicine.
Bottom line, all I am saying is that if health maintenance becomes a priority at an early age, then turning to artificial means should not be an option.
I have mentioned previously simple tips like exercise, plenty of sleep, drinking lots of water, eating nutritionally, not smoking or drinking excessively, and always using a sun screen. Unless you’ve been sleeping in an abyss for the last 40 years, then you know the importance of all of the above. As important as having a youthful appearance is in the world of entertainment, all of the money in the world does not exempt the stars and celebrities from aging. They might following all of the tips mentioned except for one, two or more. However, if they followed all of them, they wouldn’t fall prey to all of the schemes that claim to keep them looking “fresh.”
In addition to getting plenty of exercise, sleep, eating right and drinking water, here are more easy tips. Learn to stand and sit up straight. Have you ever noticed someone who slouches, either when they’re standing or sitting? Their shoulders tend to be rounded and there is a pronounced curve to their backs. For whatever reasons, no one who slouches looks youthful, vibrant or alert. They appear defeated, sluggish and old. And of course, the older the person who isn’t standing or sitting erectly, the better the chances of early aging, osteoporosis and every other degenerative disease pertaining to the spine. When I realize that I am not standing or sitting straight, I tuck in my navel. Remember, your navel is the core of your equilibruim. Play a game with yourself while you’re sitting at your desk, driving or sitting in a car or walking down the street. Try to hold your navel in so tight that it will hit your back. Of course, it can’t hit your back, but if you hold it in, you’re also tightening your ab muscles. I promise you that it really works. I’m 55 years old and have 6 pack abs just from this little exercise. Standing and sitting erectly not only is healthful to the body, but it conveys confident and self assuredness. So, always remember the importance of posture.
I’ve mentioned the importance of sunglasses for the eyes. Well, how about the teeth? If you haven’t seen a dentist in the last 6 months, then hop to it! A neglected mouth is not only a turn off, but it is a sign of poor hygiene and poor health. And a big wide smile or a big hearty laugh is good for the spirit. If you cannot afford a dentist, then go to a local university that has a school of dentistry. The students have to practice on someone, let them practice on you. Brushing and flossing one’s teeth is just as important as washing and moisturizing one’s face, neck and body. All of these things will decrease the aging process if done regularly and properly.
Finally, be nice. There is nothing uglier than a beautiful face on a mean person. It really takes no effort to be nice. Whether you follow all of my suggestions to the letter, whether you never have to go under the knife or take injections, none of these will matter if your attitude is rude and funky. Everyone’s looks will eventually fade with age. But people will always remember how kind you are or how nasty you are. And if you grow to be an old man or woman (God willing) and you’ve been a kind, generous and decent human being, you will always have people in your life. If you choose to be self absorbed, mean, impolite and rude, chances are, you will be very lonely. The last two maintenance tips kind of go hand in hand. When you smile or are quick to laugh, you are approachable. People want to be near you because THEY feel good being with you.
As always, these tips cost virtually no money and are easy. Please share your tips and comments.