Look Good = Feel Good

Putting on a new outfit may give you the pick-me-up you  need. You’ll be fresh, clean and prettier in a matter of moments. But  sometimes just adding a more affordable accessory such as a colorful  scarf, floppy-brimmed hat or fashionable pashmina is all it takes.  Putting away winter clothes and cleaning out your closet can give you a  “new season” feel. Each season, try to get rid of clothes that don’t fit  and things you’ve been holding on to. Replace them with a couple of  classic pieces that will help you look your best. When all is said and  done, you’ll likely find you have more clothing choices than you think.

No matter what our age, we can often get stuck in the routine of having  the same hair cut. It can be thrilling to try a different style or new color, and you could surprise yourself with how good you look! Before  your next visit to the salon or barbershop, flip through your favorite  magazines to find some styles that catch your eye. Compare the shape of  your face and the age of the person whose hair you admire to determine  if it will suit you. Of course, your stylist can recommend a cut that  best suits your features and personality too. Remember to be  straightforward with your stylist and say no if you’re not comfortable  with his or her suggestions, but keep an open mind; it is a change,  after all. 

Our feet get a lot of use so it’s important for both men  and women to take care of them, especially if you have dry, cracked skin  or a foot fungus that needs to be treated. Because our hands and feet  are the furthest from our heart, circulation decreases as we age. Mani  and pedis include a “mini-massage” for hands, wrists, feet and lower  legs to promote circulation.

Making a mani or pedi part  of your beauty routine will prevent hangnails, calluses and dead skin  from building up, which make skin rough and tough. If you’re caring for  someone with limited mobility, keep in mind that many professionals will  make at-home visits for both hair and spa treatments.

Choosing a new fragrance is a simple way to feel refreshed. When looking  for a new perfume or cologne, remember that most brands offer the scent  in a variety of strengths in moisturizers, aftershaves, shower gels and  shampoos. Perfumes in an eau de toilette, a milder version of the same  fragrance, are often less expensive.  

The word “spa” is Latin for “health from water,” and ancient  civilizations would frequent such places to unwind after army campaigns  and to socialize. The purpose of modern spas is still the same; these  are sites of tranquility and rejuvenation, except that services have  improved over the centuries to offer a variety of luxurious body wraps,  facials and massages.  

Remember, being cheery and putting on a smile are your best accessories.  Hold your head high and look around rather than staring at the ground.  Greet passersby with a pleasant “hello” or a polite nod. You’ll feel  more confident and energized in no time at all, and the people you meet  will be glad that you’ve brightened their day with your upbeat attitude.