How To Radiate a Glowing, Healthy Complexion

By Miriam Hunter, Health Instructor

Radiant, luminous, glowing all terms that describe light and terms that are used to describe the complexion, health, beauty and youth. Your skin and body can give the impression of vitality, energy and health, or, the impression of a lack of vitality, health, and energy.

In a Case Western Reserve University study, a team of plastic surgeons released findings on differences in the appearance of age in 186 pairs of twins. Their study, published in the journal Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, looked at how environment and behavior choices might contribute to a person looking significantly older than their own twin. Stress was noted as the most common cause for a twin to look older. Those who used sunscreen and those who were nonsmokers appeared 2-5 years younger than their twin.

Stress stems from a variety of sources both internal and external work and rest habits, nutritional intake, sun exposure, medications, supplements, skin care products. Each year billions of dollars are spent towards alleviating stress and tension that cause age lines and wrinkle in the skin.

There are many ways to begin to de-stress. Move toward addressing both the internal and external causes of stress on your body. Begin to incorporate better food choices like organic vegetables and fruits. Look to balance work, rest, exercise, and fun.

Take a deep breath and smile. Deep breaths oxygenate your cells, ease muscles and send out the message that “all is well.” You have the power to choose a relaxing deep breath at any moment and at most every moment. As you de-stress and deepen your breath you are able take in more of the joys around you.

Stretch or do some light exercise, like a walk outside. Your perspective opens and your breath deepens when you walk out in nature. A little vitamin D from the sun (remember your sunscreen) and a breath of fresh air go a long way toward brightening your face, your skin, and your disposition.

The impression of age or youth, health or illness is based in what we see and sense in the energy of others. So, even if you do not feel very youthful or energetic at a given moment, if you put on a smile or extend a hand to assist someone else, you may find your energy expands.

Your skin reflects your overall health, so take steps inside and out to improve and radiate health.