The harsh reality of life for us females in the 21st century is the need to work hard and for longer if we want to enjoy the extended longevity of life. Maintaining good health is an important tool in order for us to succeed, so we need to learn how to help ourselves by tackling some of the issues which affect our wellbeing, such as physical and mental fitness, nutrition and relationships. Of course working hard is important, but so too is playing hard, and we need to get the balance right if we are to keep fit and be well. Play mates, whether they are male or female can play their part too in keeping us happy, healthy and wise.
I think a true friendship is one of the most important relationships we can have with another person. Some people will be fortunate to remain close friends forever throughout life. I make a great effort to keep up the relationships I share with my special old friends, and try to make them aware of how lucky I feel for having them beside me, through both the good and bad times. I enjoy telling those special friends how much I care about them, and express my joy at having them in my life, and how I cherish our relationships both night and day.
Life is full of physical, emotional and mental challenges and the knowledge that we are not alone is important to us all, whatever our age. The old saying “A problem shared is a problem halved” is so true. Bottling up emotion and worry can be seriously detrimental to our health and simply talking through our concerns can make all the difference to one’s state of mind. Although many of us have families who would listen to us, we often would prefer to shield them from our worries and concerns.
With some friends we sense that our souls are closely connected, and as soul mates we know that wherever we are, whatever we do or whatever we say – they’ll be there for us – to listen and still remain friends. I am sure you have many good friends but because of distance you are unable to talk as often as you would like to. However, when you do it’s quite remarkable how you are able to pick up straight away where you may have left off years ago. Perhaps this is what’s meant by “Forever Friends”!
Question 1 – SUMMER LEGS
I am looking down at my legs in despair; they haven’t seen the light of day since last summer. Do you have any tips on how I can make them look half reasonable for my summer holiday which is in a month’s time? Maureen Chilcott – Edinburgh
Answer 1
You can help your poor pins by giving them a little TLC! Start by removing unsightly hair, and then exfoliate by giving them a good scrubbing to remove dry scaly skin. An old fashioned “loofah” does a good job, towel dry and pile on a nourishing skin cream. If you have cellulite use one of the special brand creams containing caffeine and anti-oxidants to target the problem areas. When applying any creams or lotions massage the whole length of legs, starting from toes and working upwards with sweeping strokes, to boost circulation and reduce water retention.
It’s never been easier to give your legs a healthy glow and by simply using a fake tan avoiding skin damage from the sun’s rays. Some products can be applied professionally in the beauty salon, it’s not cheap but the results are worth it.
Other self-tanning products can be applied at home before going to bed. They are colourless, dry quickly and give spectacular results by morning without ruining your bed linen. Some well-known brands of moisturisers also contain a gentle fake tan, which applied daily will build up to transform your pale legs with a subtle glow. Look out for the latest self-tan products which come in the form of in-shower tanning lotions to give you a glowing pair of pins the moment you step out!
Question 2 – MAKE UP TIPS
Diana I have been so busy bringing up my family for the past 10 years and have neglected myself, particular my looks. I’ve lost my confidence and am now totally stupid when it comes to applying makeup. Do you have any tips to help me? After so long I feel I need to learn and start all over again! Jennifer McNally…Swindon
Answer 2
Always make up in daylight if possible. Overhead lights cast downward shadows and if the light is behind you, you can’t see enough. Get into a good routine. Start with moisturising day cream or a simple tinted moisturiser containing SPF (sun protection factor). And that’s it! Or, if you are more adventurous, use a foundation matching your skin colour (or blend two colours together if you can’t find a good match).
Squeeze a small amount into palm of hand, apply sparingly with tips of fingers. Now for a concealer, best applied with brush, around eyes, spots, high colour and blemishes. Pat into place. Maybe finish with a light dusting of loose powder, but avoid crow’s feet and smoking lines, (powder accentuates them). Less is best!
If you’re brave, experiment with colour. Use blush (powder, cream or tube) apply to “apple” of your cheek for a healthy glow. Coloured eyeshadow can flatter and “bring out” eyes. Apply with fingertip or brush, but don’t overdo it (avoid shiny eyeshadow). Accentuate eyes further with eyeliner and mascara. Brown is kinder than black especially if you are not used to make up. However waterproof mascara is difficult to remove and harsh make up removers may break lashes.
Well shaped eyebrows complete grooming so tame, comb and define. Finally use a lip liner pencil to draw shape, fill in with a flattering colour, or simply lip gloss or jelly for a more natural look.
Have fun Jennifer and wait for the compliments!