Beauty/Fashion

I know that I have done at least one post about the importance of protecting your skin from the sun's damaging UV rays; however, I can't resist doing another as I keep witnessing those around me get horrible burnt - one person in particular - my son. Though his fried shoulders were a result of a complete misunderstanding between the two of us; I still felt like the world's worst mother for not making sure he was covered.

I was thinking about how many women don't reach their body's beauty potential because of poor posture. I have been guilty of this horrible laziness for most of my life. However, I do check myself when I feel that the old habits have returned. Unfortunately, I also see my daughters falling prey to the same chronic slouching. I'm always telling them to stand up straight - I just get rolling eyes and an "oh, Mom." But, did I listen to my mother when she harped at me over the same thing? NO. So, here I am today with problems...just ask my chiropractor.

Deep Breathing is one of those things that makes you think of meditation, yoga, and, in my case, childbirth. You really have to consider why we do it when 1.) we need to relax; 2.) we need to perform physically; and 3.) we need to clear our minds. Hmmm...maybe there is something to this ancient ritual that has been practiced by nearly every culture on the planet.

Ahhh...the glow of youthful, healthy skin, something that can elude us if we don't work at it. I truly do believe that anyone can achieve radiant beauty with just a few lifestyle changes...and a few great products. You likely know some of the secrets if you have been reading Women's Life Link. I love to talk about how to get beautiful through being healthy. You will benefit from any effort that you put forth, even if it's just one thing you do differently. But for maximum results, try all three parts of my program for radiant, healthy skin.

What exactly is cellulite, anyway? Great question considering most women don't know the answer. Well, it's not some new form of tissue, a special kind of fat that attacks your legs and butt, and it is not going to go away with some drugstore creme. Cellulite is, in fact, simply excess body fat. And because women happen to store more fat than men do, it is no surprise that we end up with warehouses of the stuff on our thighs.

The hot weather can be great for family outings and pool parties, but keep in mind that it can also require a different approach to dressing, beauty, and safety. The following tips will help you keep cool, healthy, and looking your best on days that rise above 80°.

Every year, I wait anxiously for the summer fruits and veggies to land in the local market - if only I could just live on watermelon and blueberries. A true sign of summer's arrival, the colorful array of yummy, refreshing picks bring a sense of being forever young with reminescence of childhood splendor, family picnics, and backyard barbeques. And, if that isn't enough to bring on a party in the produce section, listen to this. Many common summer foods have properties that boost your health and beauty in ways you might not know.

1. Do find out from a professional hairstylist what cuts and colors suit your head/face shape, hair texture, and maintenance capabilities. Don't fight it - go with it!

1. Don't forget that fit is more important than style. If you wear something because it's your favorite color or it's trendy, just remember to choose pieces that flatter your body type and really fit you well.

A long time ago - twenty years or so - I realized that the best way to look your best and keep them guessing how old you really are is to focus more on making healthful decisions than on beauty tricks and getaway-with-anything glamour. The fact is, simple things like drinking good water, not consuming or smoking harmful things, and eating more raw foods promotes glowing, youthful skin faster than the best face cream in the world.

It seems that Valerie Bertinelli has started a Hollywood trend of posing in a bikini on a national magazine cover after losing weight. This morning, there she was on the net, Melissa Joan Hart (Sabrina the Teenage Witch) with a full body photo of her newly sculpted figure on the cover of People magazine. Though others have bared their famous bods for the press, (remember Demi Moore?) I don't remember the impact being quite the same in their celebrity world or on our ordinary woman and mom planet.

1. Do own one timeless dress. 2. Don't think layering is just for winter; this fashion key is hip all year long. 3. Don't ever wear anything that could pass for country curtains or a bedspread. 4. Do find the impressive array of colorful, textured, and classy bags at Dillard's. Pictured at upper left, Antonio Melani "Louise" Shopper, $219.

Truth be told, no two women are exactly alike. We don't look alike, sound alike, act alike, or share the same fashion sense. Because of this wonderful fact, I decided to do a search for some unique fashions that can be categorized for different style and body types. Just remember, it's okay to cross over into someone else's category. You just might find you are more versatile than you thought you were.

1. Do add a little glitz to your usual work clothes; beaded skirt or cardigan, sequined scarf, or a rhinestone belt will do the trick. (Photo of Embellished Cardigan; available at Spiegel.com, $119). 2. Do buy an orange or hot pink purse to add a punch of color to any outfit.

1. Do pay attention to where you walk; I once caught my heel in a drainage grate. If only everyone could be rescued by a handsome doctor when they step in a hole. (Photo from Columbia Pictures, The Wedding Planner). 2. Do be honest with a friend if she needs to change something about her outfit. You wouldn't want her to let you go out in a too-tight dress or a shade of lipstick that makes your teeth look yellow. It's just good Karma.