For a flawless skin, lustrous hair and a slim figure, good health must be on top of the list, says SHAHNAZ HUSSAIN
Good health and beauty are two sides of the same coin. For a flawless skin, lustrous hair and a slim figure, good health must be on top of the list. A healthy woman is also better equipped to deal with the stresses of daily life. A body that is healthy is imperative for preserving beauty and building up immunity.
The right diet is absolutely essential to good looks. A diet for beauty should be high in vitamin-rich foods and low in carbohydrates and sugar. The answer is to choose from a variety of foods, to ensure a balanced diet. Fresh fruits, raw salads, sprouted grains and yogurt should be included in the daily diet. Have whole grain cereals. Reduce tea and coffee and have freshly extracted fruit and vegetable juices, lassi and clear soups. Avoid fried snacks, rich gravies and desserts, and confectionary items. Add the juice of a lemon to a glass of water and have it first thing in the morning. Drinking adequate water helps to eliminate toxins and wastes from the system.
Exercise, together with a balanced diet, can work wonders. Not only does it build up stamina and strength, but improves blood circulation to the skin and scalp. Every tissue of the body needs oxygen, so begin your exercises by doing deep breathing in front of an open window. Check with your doctor before beginning regular exercise. Walking is good physical activity, as it exercises all the muscle groups. The ancient Indian doctrine of Yoga has attained universal popularity today. In fact, it has become very relevant to modern lifestyle, bringing about harmony of body and mind.
Pay attention to cleansing and daily hygiene. Improper daily hygiene can undermine the health in a number of ways. The skin is influenced by many external factors, like dirt, chemical pollutants, bacteria and virus. By daily washing, bathing and cleaning, we can remove impurities and keep ourselves free from infections. A daily bath, or shower, is a must, especially on returning home. During the ancient times, infusions were used to wash the body. Soak neem leaves in hot water and let it stand overnight. Use the water to bathe the next morning.
Adequate sleep is also essential for fitness. Sleep is a way of restoring energy to the body and is nature’s best cure. It is a beauty treatment in itself.
A positive mental attitude is also important, because mind and body are closely related. All of us encounter a certain amount of stress and anxiety in our daily life. It is a matter of learning how to cope with it. We have to train our minds towards positive thinking and relaxation. Regular patterns of rest and exercise, along with hobbies and interests certainly help. Some people are so aware of the world around them. They are always keen to learn new things. Hobbies, interests and new activities can actually be very relaxing to the mind. They also give another dimension to the personality.
Indeed, the finest foundation for beauty consists of some common factors, which we often overlook.
The writer is founder of The Shahnaz Husain Group
