EXERCISING REGULARLY
Regarding exercise strategies, here are some suggestions that will work for both sexes, even though they are culled from Strong Women Stay Slim, by Miriam E. Nelson, Ph.D., (Bantam Books, 1998). Forget about aerobics. Take up strength training. Scientific research has shown that strength training increases metabolism -- a key to permanent weight loss -- by as much as 15 percent. Furthermore, Tufts University research comparing women who followed identical diet plans found that the strength-training group lost 44 percent more body fat than the diet-only group. Join a gym and book a few sessions with a personal trainer to learn how to use the strength training equipment.
TAKING BETTER CARE OF ONE'S LOOKS
For those over age 30, anti-aging skin care products are probably the most popular forms of "Hope in a Jar." Only a few lines on the market, however, can actually back up their claims with laboratory research indicating that using them does indeed benefit skin. The Lab Series line from Aramis for men is one such example. Featuring fragrance-free shave, skin and "age-defying" products designed to clean and protect, Lab Series is sold in upmarket department stores.
As any dermatologist will tell you, men's skin is fundamentally different from women's skin. Besides being thicker and oilier, most male skin gets shaved, and thus irritated, on a regular basis. Male skin also has larger pores that dirt and oil can clog, and it contains more collagen and elastin. "Age-defying" Lab Series products include an anti-oxidant vitamin lotion that targets fine lines and rough texture caused by daily exposure to sun, wind, heat and cold. Other formulations help control excess oil, soothe razor burn and cleanse facial pores and hair shafts.
As for women in their late 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond, they may benefit from the new Resilience LIFT creme and lotion from Estee Lauder, which was created for those experiencing the hormonal changes associated with perimenopause, menopause and post-menopause. Scientific research has long shown that these life changes produce a kind of skin aging that can involve extreme dryness, a noticeable loss of firmness and increased sagginess. Incorporating SPF 15 in its creme and lotion, LIFT addresses these conditions by helping rehydrate and firm skin, as well as renew its appearance.
GETTING MORE SLEEP
Over 100 million Americans are sleep deprived, but what can we do about it? Dr. Jim Maas, a psychologist at Cornell University, suggests getting eight hours a night as a rule. Take "power naps" of no more than 20 minutes whenever possible for quick refreshment. If your office has a door, lock it at lunchtime and take a nap. Try not to stay up past midnight, as going to bed after midnight makes it harder to feel rested in the morning.
