Remember, Sex and the City? Samantha was still steaming hot even when she was fifty. What was her secret?
Do you wake in the morning, look in the mirror and then dread your looks? That’s not healthy. Always wake up to a relaxing full-body stretch and yawn unapologetically. Smile afterwards. If sustaining a youthful state-of-mind was as easy as that, everybody could just wake up to a good mood. Well, that can be a start. However, staying youthful means more than just those fancy chemicals advertised on TV promising you a “youthful glow” after seven days or so but if you really want to take it seriously, first, you examine the things and the values which are attributed to being “old”. Examples of such are being “no fun”, “unfashionable”, “irritable” and “weak”. Let’s dissect these attributes and turn them 180 degrees around.
TURN THAT SCOWL UPSIDE DOWN
In case you haven’t heard yet, it takes three times more number of facial muscles to frown than to smile. Nothing brings more deleterious vibes than a sulky frown. So smile! In fact, studies show that the mere act of curving your lips upward—even if you’re not really smiling—releases endorphins (the get-happy hormones) throughout your body. If you’re trying to score a date, smiling will ease the tension down and make you look more approachable. Moreover, notice the people in their 40s who always smile. They have an unexplainable, attractive, youthful aura that works like an invisible halo that makes them always pleasing to the eye. You too, can be like them. It’s all about attracting positivity in your life. You start by smiling.
STAY UPDATED IN FASHION
Fashion is both an art and a discipline. However, it’s not as rigid as you think. There are general rules like matching your bag with your shoes, not wearing more than three colours at once, etc. There are certain fashion styles that never fade. Jeans, for example, is a worldwide classic. Learn how to use them properly and make sure you read fashion magazines apt for your age to stay updated on the latest in town.
SAY YES TO FUN!
Remember when you were a teenager? When the world seemed to lack restrictions and when rules are made to be broken? Feel that rush. I am not suggesting you become a criminal. No! It’s just that when we get older, our priorities become tweaked. Re-adjust them and insert some fun into it. Get your nails painted regularly. Hang out with your younger peers—your nieces count!—once in a while. It will keep you on your toes about what “the funniest fun” feels like. And trust me, it’s a high that no other drug (or anti-aging cream) can provide.
GET THOSE MUSCLES MOVING
Oh come on! Who says you’re bedridden? Take an early morning jog and release more endorphins! Try walking to your destination if the sun is not so conspicuous. It’s about time that you get out of your home and welcome the world outside!
To top the chart, allow yourself sometime for meditation and always plan your day ahead. It also improves your flexibility. The best thing about this is that you don’t have to eat a “special food” or buy “special equipment” to stay young.
Youth is all about embracing life to the fullest. You can make youth eternal.