Our bodies age, whether we want them to or not, and the age you feel may not match the number of candles on your birthday cake. Make sure the reflection looking back at you from the mirror shows how you feel on the inside and live longer using these anti-aging tips.
The Skin You’re In
Anti-aging efforts start with your skin. It’s the first thing people see and the first part of you to start showing your age. You can take simple steps, though, to keep your skin in top condition and reduce wrinkles.
Avoid the sun. In addition to serious problems like skin cancer, sun exposure causes wrinkles, skin spots, freckles, and rough dry skin — all side effects that age your skin. You can protect your skin from the sun by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing and avoiding the sun during 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., the hours the sun’s rays are the strongest according to the Mayo Clinic.
Develop a good, age appropriate skin care routine that includes moisturizers with retinoids, a vitamin A derivative that boosts collage production, a key ingredient needed to reduce wrinkles. Also exfoliate your skin using products with an alpha-hydroxy acid. Both products stimulate skin cells differently leading to brighter, smoother skin.
Use It Works’ Hydrating Facial Mask and feed your face rich botanicals that will help to tighten and tone your skin. Wearing the applicator for 45 minutes will make you feel like you just had a facial. Treat yourself to it once a week. I like to do one of Fridays. Check out Demi Moore in her hydration mask.
Watch What Goes In
What you put into your body says a lot about how much you care about yourself. Eating cheeseburgers, potato chips and high-calorie coffee drinks won’t help you live longer, reduce wrinkles or help that reflection in the mirror look the age you want it to.
Start watching what goes in your body by maintaining good hydration with water. Water helps you lose weight, makes your skin look healthier, aids in digestion and could even help prevent cancer.
As you reach 40, your metabolism begins to slow and so diet becomes more important. Focus on an organic, plant-based diet rich in fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables. Get enough calcium in your diet to keep your bones strong and healthy. Limit alcohol and caffeine, two substances that contradict your anti-aging efforts.
Watching what goes in also means what you choose to take in mentally. A focus on the positive yields positive rewards such as reducing stress, lowering depression and helping you live longer. Get some help with reducing your stress with Confianza. Less stress means less cortisol. Cortisol is that pesky thing our body releases that prevents weight loss. It has been said to be one of the main causes of belly fat.
Get Active, Stay Active
The benefits of regular exercise are well known. But, exercise also helps you live longer and look younger. Exercise boosts your mood, helps you lose weight, increases your energy and can even be fun. If you’re not active yet, it’s not too late to start. Consider walking or biking to work. Find a family activity to do on the weekends like hiking to get everyone involved. Try a new exercise routine like FitWorks, yoga or pilates, activities good for your body and mind.
Don’t let your reflection in the mirror match the candles on your cake. Live longer by embracing the age you feel on the inside and take steps to care for your body, mind and spirit.
