Busy women, wives and mothers often put themselves last on their very long to-do lists. Nurturing by nature, women work hard to make sure their loved ones' needs and happiness come first.
Robin McGraw, wife of television host Dr. Phil, wrote a book, "What's Age Got To Do With It Living Your Happiest and Healthiest Life" (Thomas Nelson, $24.99), in which she shares her best and most practical secrets for taking the first steps toward better health, nutrition, fitness, skin care and style, including the importance of faith in the process.
- It doesn't matter how many candles you blow out on your birthday cake. What does matter is your attitude toward life and your choice to take the best care of yourself as possible.
- Exercise can reduce risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes and osteoporosis, and improve cholesterol, blood pressure, insomnia and depression. Schedule workouts with a buddy. Consult with an expert, take notes on what exercises to do, tell others about your fitness regimen, and set goals.
- Plan your meals -- because if you don't, you'll eat fast food. Keep a food diary. Choose smaller dishes. Make healthy substitutions. Instead of mayonnaise, try mustard. Read food labels. Drink plenty of water. Sip green tea. Sip the soda.
- The best way to prevent or smooth wrinkles is with products such as retinoic acid, a form of Vitamin A; hyaluronic acid, something our bodies naturally produce; and peptides, a group of amino acids believed to help skin produce collagen and inhibit enzymes that break down the skin's support structures.
- When approaching perimenopause, or menopause, ask your doctor questions in regard to natural versus synthetic hormones. Bring a list of concerns and symptoms. Listen to instructions for prescription use. Ask questions, talk to other women or get another opinion.
- There are many things that damage hair such as smoking, chlorine and salt water, heat styling, indoor environments and sun. Thinning hair or hair loss can be caused by pregnancy, stress, hypothyroidism, medications and genetics. Choose hair color carefully, to make sure it looks good with your complexion.
- Mascara needs to be replaced every three to six months; liquid liner, foundation and concealer after six months to a year; and lip and eye pencils, lipsticks and glosses every year. Apply raw, whipped egg white to your face until it is dry and tight, and then rinse. Invest in good makeup brushes, and clean them regularly. Ask for gift cards from your makeup store, and research the right colors for your face.
- You can't go wrong with classic items such as white button-down shirts, slim-fitting boots and simple, well-fitting blazers. Don't blindly follow trends. Choose clothes for how they fit on your body. Accessories can instantly change an outfit or make something old look new again. What you wear underneath your clothes can have a huge impact on how your clothes look and fit.
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