We all know the mantra new year, new me. We do it every year when the ball drops; this year, it should be a new you. I started working back out when the gyms were safe to reopen. Exercise has done so many wonders for my body and has created a clear mind for me to think and improve my health.
Exercising helps to improve the immune system but also helps the skin keep its firmness. As we age, gravity takes a toll on our body; not only that, what we eat and how we take care of it also plays a role in how well we age.
Nowadays, we are equipped with all the tools necessary to get these results and maintaining them. Exercise is one thing that can take the form of Pilates, yoga, weight-lifting, or cardio. Exercise has so many benefits but alone won’t take care of the body. Instead, it should be used as an enhancement and not the only thing.
Self-care is another tool that should be utilized to maintain your beauty; there is a lot to say about a person who values themselves enough to practice good self-care and beauty care. This is the time to enjoy the skin you are in, regardless of any age.
1/ Lemon + Water to start the day
A cup of hot water and lemon is a great way to start the day. Nothing wakes the body up more than lemon water; it’s suitable for the immune system and does wonders for the skin. Lemon is so powerful that I use it when I make certain sauces and chicken. When using it on raw meat adds that flavor yet cutting the rawness of the food. In this case, it’s an alert clock for your body.
2/ Sunscreen
As part of any daily skincare, regular sunscreen is fundamental. I learned that even if you won’t be outside under sun exposure, sunscreen is still essential. As if you use vitamin C serums as part of your routine, it always makes your skin prone to getting dark spots if not protected. This costless yet straightforward tip will have you aging backward.
3/ No added sugar
I am not a caffeine drinker, but I am guilty of getting a decaf caramel oatmeal latte. This is my vice, and I will say that it’s a costly vice. Added sugar is no good for your body and especially your skin; it has been proven that added sugar converts to form fat which is then stored under the skin. This, in turn, cause you to gain weight which then leads to saggy skin. The worst thing about excess skin is that it makes you look older if it’s not maintained. Added sugar is a no!
4/ Exfoliate
I try to do this at least twice a week, and that is to exfoliate. Exfoliation is the best way to rid the body of dead, dry skin. This will help with the aging process as when your skin has an abundance of excess dead skin, it tends to age you faster. Exfoliation is so essential to resurface the skin and brighten it.
5/ Don’t overdo it with makeup
As I get older, the more I see the importance of simplicity. One of those things is makeup; to be fair, I was never one to beat my face or bake. I preferred having good skin, adding minimal foundation, with some setting powder under the eyes. I would use the highlighter as eyeshadows and finally highlight bits of my face. It depends on yourself but try not to go overboard with makeup.
6/ Limit stress
This is a big one. Stress can do so much to the body and the most significant factor that ages it. The body doesn’t age well when it’s under any form of stress. Take time for yourself; nothing is more precious and priceless than the time we spend with ourselves. I have said this in a previous post, if something isn’t making you happy, then leave it. I hate to say this, but our jobs sometimes play a role in stress and how we manage it. Life is so short, and the worst thing you want to do is spend it on something that stresses you.
7/ Live your life for you
I cannot stress this enough; life is too short to spend on things that don’t matter. Live your life to the fullest, not saying make dumb decisions now, but you don’t want to regret anything. If you’re going to start a business, write a book, buy the bag you always wish to-, just do it. I use to say when I get the chance, I will do this, but I can admit that one of my biggest regrets was not following my dreams from the beginning. Meaning not going away to college or picking the major I want instead of one I wasted time on.
8/ Don’t be too hard on yourself
Mistakes are meant to be corrected, and it’s apart of life. I don’t want you to beat yourself up if you don’t look a certain way. Beauty is subjective, and just because you don’t fit into a specific mold, don’t beat yourself up to try quick fixes. Take time to embrace your imperfections, make changes as you go, don’t rush into something that will cause harm. Nothing I did work overnight; it took months to years due in part to me stopping. Do not put pressure on yourself for things you can change.