What is Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion. Home microdermabrasion kits. Microdermabrasion units. And you are wondering just what the hell all this is about! Nary a worrisome thought, for in 2 minutes flat you will know what microdermabrasion is and how you can benefit from this wonderful process that could make reversal of aging an earthy possibility!

Microdermabrasion: Say bye-bye to wrinkles! Look younger and fresher!

Fundamentally, microdermabrasion is a technique to negate the aging effects on a person’s skin and therefore the outward appearance and can also fight surface effects of sun exposure. It’s a process for reparation of facial skin in particular but can theoretically be used for most parts of the human body. Typical of any treatment for the skin, this technique like its brethren (e.g: laser hair removal) would require more than just one sitting for a satisfactory and long lasting effect.

How does microdermabrasion work?

At the heart of this treatment is a sandjet or a sandblaster which propels very finely ground sand particles through a nozzle on to the surface of a skin in a gentle wave. What this helps achieves is to abrade i.e. rub away due to friction all the dead cells on the surface of the skin that gives an aged and possibly haggard look. In several cases of microdermabrasion, this could be combined with a suction mechanism as well that works in tandem with the sand particles that are being fired on the skin surface. This treatment doesn’t have any painful body reactions and can be administered to almost everybody who have a normal skin composition and don’t suffer from any pigmentation irregularities. So when the sand particles are blown away, what is left behind is fresh new and younger looking skin that just turned your clock back through a few years! Now, isn’t that a delightful thought?

The Alternatives To Botox

The wrinkles that form around the eyes, known as "crows feet," can be caused by a whole host of hereditary and environmental factors, and can cause much consternation among women and perhaps even some men. Not only do these age one's face, but they can also cause an appearance of squinting!

Skin elasticity along with involuntary muscle contraction in the area can be hereditary factors. In addition, other hereditary factors that may contribute include eyesight issues, which cause squinting that leads to deepened "crows feet." Environmental factors, such as sun exposure also play a part. Sun exposure not only damages the skin itself, but the sun's rays also cause the squinting and eye area movements that contribute to these unsightly wrinkles.

Many women have tried many different products to "cure" this look and re-smooth the area. When Botox came on the scene, it was heralded as a great solution, as it tends to "freeze up" the muscles that are the cause of the issue.

However, there are several drawbacks to Botox which leave women searching for a better solution. For one, Botox is a chemical, and is not welcomed by many women in this age of healthy, pollutant-free living. Another issue is that Botox is injected. Lastly, there just seems something wrong with using a chemical agent to paralyze your muscles. Surely they function as they do for a reason!

This is why topical lotions and creams are much more sought after. Some of these products claim to work under the skin, while others deal with the problem right on the surface of the skin! For example, some tightening agents are applied directly to the under eye area, and then are left to dry. This drying action is where you start to see results. As the product dries, it pulls the wrinkles flat, leaving you with smoother, more youthful skin. Users will want to note that this pulling and smoothing motion is exactly what a doctor does in the process of facial surgery, such as a face lift: tightens the skin using a pulling motion.

The user advantages to these lotions, besides the simple improvement in looks and self-esteem, are numerous. For example, the products are often pleasant- smelling, luxurious, easy to use and cost effective. In addition, because they are applied directly on the surface, there are no injections, doctor visits, or follow up visits required!

Overall, the topical creams are so much more pleasant and bearable than the needles, pain, costs and office visits associated with surgical or injectable fixes, while still giving comparable results.

The Fountain of Youth

Can we really stop the aging process, slow it down, or even reverse the effects of aging on our skin and body? It is an enigma for which so many have searched the answers to for years. Now, with advanced modern science making breakthroughs and discoveries every day, the answers have become apparent to the age-old quest for the proverbial fountain of youth.

In large part, your everyday lifestyle choices contribute to the way you age, and at what rateyour body ages. Diet, environmental factors, exercise and the topical skincare products and skin care regimen you choose, all affect the way you are going to appear now and ten, twenty, and thirty years down the road. It's no surprise your lifestyle plays a pivotal role in how your body and skin age over the years, since we've always known diet and exercise affect our energy levels, appearance, moods, and fitness level.

However, several key foods have been found to be very effective weapons not only against aging in general, but also against skin disorders ranging from acne, rosacea, thin skin, and photo aging (sun damage). These foods can even help reverse and repair sun and other environmental damage done to theskin. This powerful weapon is a goup of chemical compounds called antioxidants, and what they accomplish in high doses, along with adequate exercise, can mimic a surgical facelift over a relatively short period of time!

Think about all of the damage your skin is exposed to on a daily basis. It is your largest and most vulnerable organ, exposed to toxins and other damaging elements, like the sun, every day. These elements will actually accelerate the aging process by producing harmful compounds called free radicals, which can damage cells and in turn damage the skin. Antioxidants actually fight free radicals, and reverse some of the damage already done by them in the body.

Precautions to be taken to prevent these nasty little free radicals from wreaking havoc on your skin include wearing sunscreen every day, getting regular moderate exercise, using preventive skin care (cleansers, lotions, gels, creams, etc.) formulated with powerful antioxidants like Vitamin C and Alpha Lipoic Acid, and making sure your get an abundance of antioxidants in your every day diet.

Some examples of foods high in antioxidants include berries (strawberries, bluberries, raspberries, etc.),citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruits, etc.), and vegetables rich in color, such as broccoli, zuccini, spinach, and summer squash.

While there are many foods to be enjoyed while living by the "anti-aging" diet, there are also foods that need to be either avoided all together, or strictly minimized. These are refined sugar, caffeine, and all starchy and white flour products. The resulting surge of insulin created by these foods produces more free radicals and breaks down the cell's defenses against damaging elements, leaving you wide open to more skin damage (ie. wrinkles, skin disorders, and other premature aging effects).

These foods are highly inflammatory by nature, and while they may taste good going down, know that they are destroying good cells and allowing for future damage by weakening the cell's defenses further. Eating these foods results in less tone and definition. The skin "droops", hence the creation of fine lines, wrinkles, and dull color. You will know a person that has a high sugar and high carb diet by looking at their face. They may have almost a "doughy" appearance to their skin, lacking the sharp definition and tone enjoyed by those who follow a healthy diet based on the anti-aging principles.

So, there you have it, some of the core concepts that will get you started to minimizing and even reversing the affects of aging. This is really just the tip of the iceberg. There is actually a lot more information on these concepts available that would be well worth your time to learn. What you do with these principles is up to you, it's just a matter of making some minor changes for a longer, happier and healthier life. I'd say that is definitely worth the investment!

Cellulite Creams For Anti Aging Treatment

Cellulite is a constant worry of many women today. Cellulite affects the majority of women over the age of 30 in varying degrees and it seems to get worse with age.

Cellulite as an aging problem has been opined to be a problem of overweight women but to some extent, this may not be totally true as average size and even thin women suffer from cellulite as well. Cellulite is not restricted to a particular class of the society as rich women suffer from it too.

From an anti aging treatment perspective, should cellulite be tolerated or is there a means of getting rid of it? Cellulite can be gotten rid of, of course not too soon for you to flaunt your skin in that latest wear you bought for this summer. In getting rid of cellulite, cellulite creams can do the trick.

As anti aging treatment, cellulite creams abound in their different formula and sizes and can be used to get rid of cellulite. These products work by melting fat and moving fluids and toxins out. A dermatologist says an average cellulite cream works great to pull fluids out of the spaces between cells and induce fat burning process in the layer below the skin's surface. Research has also shown that certain cellulite creams reduce fat cells in skin with attendant changes in a matter of few weeks.

Some currently available cellulite creams in the market will provide good results with obvious reduction in cellulite. There are over 200 of such cellulite creams and the key features to watch out for when getting one is that the cream should be able to reduce the cellulite, should contain high quality ingredients and have skin tightening properties.

In getting the best out of the cellulite cream you will purchase, you will do good to keep to these tips:

Follow religiously the instructions for use of the cellulite cream.

Watch your diet and stay away from fats.

Exercise your body and stick to it.

Wash and keep clean always.

Be consistent with all of the above tips!

If you keep to these tips and you are consistent with it, the cellulite cream of your choice will show its effectiveness soon enough for you to see the end of cellulite on your skin and ultimately acquire that skin smoothness you have always dream of.

Look Younger By Eating Fats

If you think that cutting off all the fat from your diet is going to make you look better, think again. A move like that could age you faster instead.

Your skin and hair needs fat in order to stay healthy. Radiant skin, healthy skin that glows from within is impossible if you do not eat enough fat in your diet. Strong, beautiful, healthy hair is impossible if you totally eliminate fat from your diet.

The crux of the matter is this. You need to eat fat in order to have healthy skin and hair. Healthy skin and Healthy hair is beautiful.

The fat I'm talking about isn't the unhealthy, cholesterol-ridden fats you find around your steak or your bacon or the butter you might spread on your bread. I'm talking about healthy fats. The sort you would find in nuts and seeds, in cold pressed vegetable oils like olive oil and in olive fish like salmon, mackerel and sardines.

Hard to believe?

Not if you look at the nutrients found in foods containing the good fats. Take cod liver OIL for example. That is taken as a supplement because of its vitamin D content. How about evening primrose OIL taken for its GLA or gamma-linolenic acid. A fatty acid that is used to build cell membranes. Both omega-3 and omega-6 fats work together to keep your skin soft and velvety. They help your skin stay hydrated.

Your body needs essential fatty acids. EFAs help your body process the food to release the energy needed for your life processes. They are important in the transfer of oxygen in your body as well as the regulation of nutrients in and out of the cells among other things.

Your body in particular needs Omega-3 fats. Yes, you also need the omega-6 fats which are plentiful in your regular diet. Omega-6 fats are found in corn oil, safflower oil and canola oil. Omega-3 fats aren't that common in most diets. You can get the necessary omega-3 fats by eating walnuts and eating oily fish. Fish oils are rich in omega-3 fats too.

You should take olive oil. Use that in your salads. It is rich in monosaturated fatty acids. It is rich in antioxidants like vitamin E. In fact, most vegetable oils contain vitamin E. Almond oil and wheatgerm oil are also rich sources of vitamin E.

Vitamin E is an anti-oxidant. Anti-oxidants neutralize the free radicals that would otherwise damage your skin cells, aging you more quickly. Consuming nuts, seeds and oils that are rich in vitamin E protects you from the aging effect of these free radicals by neutralizing the free radicals before they can cause damage.

Some tips. If your hair and skin is dry, you really should eat more nuts. Snack on walnuts and almonds. These would give your body the oils it needs for healthy hair and healthy skin. Look at dry skin. Wrinkles appear faster on dry skin. Dry skin looks older. Well hydrated, healthy skin looks younger. Which would you prefer?

How To Stop Crow's Feet

Looking a little tired around your eyes lately and confused by the hype how to remedy those lines and wrinkles?

There are cosmetic companies touting products just hoping you will believe that crow's feet can be diminished just by rubbing a little pad around the eyes. And, some cosmetic companies would like you to spend a small fortune every month on a topical preparation filled with peptides and other substances to stop the smile movements that cause creasing.

Maybe you have considered more drastic measures like Botox or fillers to combat the look of old because you know that wrinkles shout to the world that you are not the fresh-faced beauty you once were.

Such silliness!

Crow's feet are caused when the forehead muscle, a large vertical muscle, begins to elongate and push downward into other muscle groups that surround the eyes. Couple this downward motion with smiling, squinting and other facial expressions and voila! You have lines and wrinkles in a very delicate area of the face.

Yes, while skin care is important, in most cases you will never need to go the route of surgery or injections that paralyze and plump to correct crow's feet. Treating crow's feet using extraneous methods such as laser and Thermage seems barbaric, potentially dangerous and useless because these methods do not stop the cause of Crow's feet; these modalities only temporarily mask the symptoms.

You can prove this to yourself when you choose facial exercise to look younger and prettier. In one movement you can increase the distance between your eye brows and eye lashes; you will also experience the amazement that when you perform this exercise your forehead lifts and tightens, too.

Exercise changes everything because it revitalizes your body and it can revitalize your facial features. Oxygenated blood can be forced to our tissues when we use isometric and resistance movements; this action plumps up the tissue and rejuvenates the muscles so they better support your skin.

Just so that you know, there are other facial exercises to combat an aging face so that your face is firmer and lifted without using anything but your age erasers - your thumbs and fingers - to create a younger looking, prettier face.

Rather than sitting in a physicians office for twenty minutes to two hours wasting time and spending money to have a treatment, you can self treat at home using just thirty-five seconds each day to stop your droopy forehead from creating unwanted lines, wrinkles and crinkles around your eyes. The benefits of facial exercise for this area are truly amazing because you will see and feel a substantial difference the first day you try the exercise.

Will you look like you're sixteen again? Probably not but if you want to stop the downward slide of your forehead without spending a fortune or putting yourself at risk, this is the ticket for which you have been searching.

It is important to note that once you begin exercising your upper eye and forehead muscles that you continue to do so once a day for six days in a row. Even though the time allowance seems slight, it is sufficient to lift that heavy, vertical muscle to alleviate the look of old.

Women even into their 80's have seen their crow's feet greatly diminish. Couple the forehead exercise with the one hundred circle exercise to reduce the lines and wrinkles caused by smiling and other facial expressions and you will begin to see that twinkle return to your eyes.

You may be scoffing at the thought of alleviating crow's feet without expensive interventions but I promise, you'll have the last laugh when you realize just how powerful facial exercise is to save your face.

Once the decompression of the forehead muscle is reversed, you can see that the area surrounding the eye acts differently. The area becomes lifted and tightened. Without anything invasive, pain, risk or expense, you can correct droopy facial features with simple, easy to perform movements that require only minutes a day to complete.

How long does it take to see results? Most everyone sees results the very first time the movements are performed; however, lasting results come at about three weeks into practicing this exercise. The more consistent you are, the better your results.

Capture your results on film or in a digital format; do this by taking close-up photos of your face before you begin. At the end of the third week, take another set of photos and see how the area has lifted and responded to this very special exercise.

Once you prove to prove to yourself that you don't need any special interventions to have a younger, prettier face, you might want to consider learning an isometric and resistance facial exercise program that will help you rediscover the face you thought you had lost forever.

Facial Exercises

Medical experts recently released a warning that only healthy people should be allowed to have cosmetic and plastic surgery.

Serious complications from cosmetic surgery procedures have been speculated about for years. The untimely death of Donda West, mother of rap artist Kanye West, who wanted several procedures performed - one right after the other while she lie oblivious to her impending death due to several health issues she evidently ignored - has spiked more interest in the pitfalls of surgery.

Surgery is risky business.

The latest issue of the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Journal disclosed that one in every 298 patients who had a cosmetic procedure suffered serious complications, with one death recorded in every 51,459 cases.

What is deemed a "serious complication"? Bleeding, excessive vomiting, bruising, respiratory and heart problems are the top five complications from breast augmentation, face lift, liposuction and tummy tucks. Serious complications from anesthesia can also include loss of memory and cognitive functions - postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD).

A lot of Baby Boomers have health challenges: Diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and more are prevalent in those men and women born after 1946. Lots of prescriptions are written for them and that poses yet another health risk as many people ingest between five and twenty-five medications per day.

Surgery + prescription drugs + ailments = DISASTER!

Injections to plump and paralyze sagging, droopy facial features can have their pitfalls, too. The number one concern is that injections are temporary and must be repeatedly used over and over each and every year that a person wants to look younger . Keep in mind that these new drugs have had no long term testing.

How can one person's face be subjected to many, many injections for years and years? How many surgeries can the face endure? Is there a saturation point?

When you think about it, a younger looking face looks healthy. Sometimes surgery and injections miss the mark with their unmistakable tell-tale signs of use and overuse.

We can disguise our bodies with clothing. And we can disguise aging in the face without using substances or procedures.

That's right. Without drugs, surgery or injections, specialized facial exercises can help your face look lifted and tighter.

Right now you can begin to lift those droopy eyelids that develop as our eyebrows drop using simple resistance and contraction movements. Even those pesky jowls and pouches can become less evident when your cheeks lift, smoothing and flattening the nose to mouth lines.

Exercise for your body produces a toned, sleek look. The same type of resistance and contraction movements will help your face look refreshed, lifted and younger. Using your "age erasers", your fingers and thumbs in white cotton exercise gloves, you can begin to systematically strengthen and tone your facial muscles.

These easy to follow movements can be completed in just minutes a day in the privacy of your home.

What results can you expect and how long before you see them? Most users of this type of exercise program see results almost immediately. Until your muscles become stronger, the new look will slowly develop but once your muscles are in better shape, you will notice that you look and feel differently when you look in the mirror.

Your peers will also begin to realize there is something going on with your look. They will wonder if you have changed your hairstyle. Maybe they will think you've been getting some really good rest or that your new diet has made you look refreshed and invigorated.

After some weeks, they may even approach you only to ask if you have had recent face work as they look for scars and seams. Your new face will be the envy of your friends and most likely you will look substantially younger than you have in years when you choose facial exercise.

Understanding How Our Bodies Age

Aging studies have shown that our bodies undergo several changes as we grow older. According to many aging studies, our muscles strength and flexibility tend to diminish as we grow older. The decline on our muscles can have some serious effects in our lives. Sooner or later, we may find ourselves struggling to go through the simple daily routines like taking a shower, walking, climbing stairs and others.

Yes, this situation can be very distressing indeed but there is really nothing much we can do about it especially when we already reach the age of 90 or older. Besides, when you are 90 years and you are still alive, that already quite an achievement so we might as well be resigned to the fact that we all have to go throw this phase.

What to Expect as You Grow Old

If you have been reading the results of aging studies, you will notice that your body will go through a lot of degeneration over time. For one thing, our metabolism slows down as we age. This explains why it is more difficult for us to keep off that unwanted weight as we grow older. A lot of people who have always been slim and fit while they were younger find themselves accumulating more fats especially around the middle.

Fortunately, there are ways to increase our metabolism even as we age. Aging studies show that our bodies still respond to stimulants like exercise and physical activities even we reach retirement age. This means that if you want to kick up your metabolic process a few notch higher, all you need to do is exercise. The good thing about doing some exercises is that it does not just increase your metabolic rate, it also help tone your muscles.

Another change that aging studies notice in our bodies as we age is the loss of bone density. According to many aging studies, older people have more brittle bones compared to their younger counterparts. The loss of bone mass actually begins at age 30 for most people. The process is slow and not many of us will notice this. To combat boneless and prevent osteoporosis, we should drink milk and do some exercise daily.

According to experts, the calcium in milk can help strengthen our bones and prevent osteoporosis. Taking calcium supplement is also important. To prevent stiffness, we should continue to lead active lives as much as possible. According to aging studies, people who engage in physical activities are more likely to remain mobile and flexible longer compared to those people who lead sedentary lives. Simple activities like walking and swimming can do so much to keep out bodies healthy and strong as we age.

The New Elixir Of Anti Aging

Shilajit - Fulvic Acid is emerging as a new elixir of anti aging and well being. It was however always known to Yogis of India since many centuries. Indian Yogis mention Shilajit as an elixir of evergreen life and fountain of youth.

In Sanskrit the ancient language of India the literal meaning of Shilajit is "Rock Like" the power to make our body like a rock and enabling it to withstand the ravages of time. Shilajit was considered to have unparalleled powers of arresting and reversing the aging process. Indian Yogis on seeing its powers considered Shilajit to have divine powers capable of healing the body of virtually any Ailments and preserve our youthfulness.

What actually is Shilajit? Shilajit is basically a mineral pitch containing 85 minerals in ionic form and Fulvic acid to the extent of 60%. Shilajit is mainly found in the Himalayan mountains bordering India and Tibet which was home to rich plat life since prehistoric times.

The major reason for aging is the degeneration and death of body cells. The major reason for death and decay of body cells is the mineral decency. Minerals act as the catalysts for metabolic reactions and biological functions within the body cells. Minerals are also required for the assimilation of all the vitamins. Without minerals the vitamins are not of any use. Taking mineral supplements will not be of much use as with age the cell walls become thick and resist the entry of minerals into the cells.

Shilajit Fulvic Acid

Fulvic Acid the major ingredient of the Shilajit plays a vital role in penetrating the cell walls and transporting the minerals in to the cells. This is the most important property of the Shilajit that helps in arresting and reversing the aging process. Moreover the minerals in Shilajit are in ionic form hence they are easily assimilated by body cells. Shilajit thus can effectively arrest the decay of body cells and prolong their life. It can have positive impact on the most degenerative ailments like Cancer, diabetes, heart diseases, sexual debility, osteoporosis, rheumatism, joint pains, dementia etc.

Laser Skin Resurfacing Treatments

Laser skin resurfacing treatments are carried out under a local anaesthetic to rejuvenate the face, stimulate the growth of new collagen, remove shallow scars and fine lines, and reduce wrinkles. Laser treatments may be combined with liposuction, for example when excess fat is removed from the chin and jaw area, the skin may be saggy and wrinkled after the removal of fat. Lasers can help smooth and tighten the skin to give a more defined jaw line after liposuction treatment.

Skin lasers burn away the outer layer of the skin to reveal younger looking skin. The laser also heats deeper layers of the skin, which stimulates the growth of new collagen. Lasers can be used on specific areas of the face or all over the face. Facial treatments can cause a change in skin pigmentation and are not generally recommended for people with dark skin.

As we age, repetitive facial muscle movements contribute the formation of lines and wrinkles in the face. Other factors such as exposure to the sun, diet, and smoking can effect how our skin will age. Skin laser treatments can be used to remove acne scars, birth marks, fine lines and uneven skin pigmentation.

Laser facial treatments are carried out under a local anaesthetic, so you are awake during the procedure, and can return home shortly after the laser treatment. During the procedure your eyes will be protected by special goggles.After treatment, there may be some discomfort and you would need to take an analgesic for pain relief. It can take up to two weeks for the skin to heal, and you may experience skin redness lasting up to 6 months. You will need to protect your skin from the sun and wear a sunscreen for 12 months after laser treatment.

There should be some improvement to the skin after one laser face treatment, but repeated treatments may be required to achieve the desired results. You should discuss your expectations with your therapist before treatment, and ask how many treatments will be required.

Skin lasers can cause blisters or burns which can result in mild scarring and changes in skin colour. When skin lasers are used around the eyes, some people may experience temporary eyelid swelling. Laser clinics in the UK should be registered with the Healthcare Commission, which is the independent watchdog for healthcare in England. Visit their website to check if your local laser clinic is a registered service provider.

Six Tips For Anti Aging

Let me first start off by saying that the term “anti aging” is a misnomer of sorts. The grim fact is that we will all age and eventually die. Not one of us is immortal. The good news is that we can prolong our lives and avoid disease by making a conscious effort to take care of ourselves. Prevention is key when it comes to anti-aging. Many people are still looking for that perfect cream or pill that will make them look younger.

The fact is that it’s most important to take care of what’s on the inside before you will see external results. What you put into your body is a reflection of what you see on the outside. The path to healthy aging (or anti-aging) takes dedication and a conscious effort. Nobody is perfect – we all have our vices – those things that we just love and feel must be included in our lives, be it lying out in the sun, drinking that morning cup of coffee, or the occasional sweet indulgence.

The key is moderation. Don’t deprive yourself of that which you love because you will only be likely to over-do it next time you are tempted. Think about the things you put into your body every day:
the things you eat and drink, the stress you put upon yourself, the exercises you do, the exposure you give your skin to harmful UV rays and cigarette smoke, and the time you take to let yourself relax.

By making a conscious effort to cut down and possibly eliminate those things that are dragging our health into the gutter, we will live happier, healthier, more youthful and productive lives. You can start small and work your way up to a healthier lifestyle. When you start seeing the benefits of your efforts, you will be more motivated to stick with your plan and implement more healthy changes.

Here are some basics to look at.You may already be doing some or even all of these things – if so; you are on the right track! If not – congratulations for making a conscious effort to start living a healthier life. Remember, start small with one or two items a month and keep adding more as you go:

1) Drink water. Many people don’t realize that they actually drink more calories than they eat. Soft drinks and juices can pack on the pounds and make you feel sluggish. On the contrary, water will make you feel more energized and can also suppress your appetite between meals. If you are trying to loose weight or increase energy then water is your friend. Your skin will thank you, too.

2) If you smoke – quit. Be hard on yourself about this one. We all know that smoking is linked to cancer and a host of other health problems. You must win this battle or all of your other efforts will be in vain.

3) Exercise at least 20 minutes every day. Even if you have to get up at 5 a.m. to take a brisk walk around the neighborhood. Fit it into your schedule somewhere. You will find that you have more energy and your body will begin to show the effects of your efforts. The key is to stick with it even when you don’t feel like it – the results don’t come for free.

4) Eat more veggies. Vegetables (and fruits) are a wonderful source of age-fighting antioxidants. To get the best health benefits, eat a range of colors. Get your greens, reds, yellows, and purples every day. Some good choices are spinach, tomatoes, carrots, and blueberries. Not only will you be getting your antioxidants, but you will also be adding more fiber to your diet.

5) Limit your time in the sun. Always use SPF 15 or higher when you know you will be out in the sun. Damage from the sun will cause your skin to look older, faster. If you really enjoy that “bronze” look, try a self tanner. You will get the look of a tan without the harmful UV exposure.

6) Take time for yourself. The world can be a stressful place. Stress that is built up in your body can cause you to age quicker. Take time to meditate, read a book, or get a massage at lease once a week, if not more.

These six tips for anti-aging may seem simple, but if you actually implement them into your lifestyle, you will see positive changes in your health, mood and looks. Your body will thank you in many ways and you will be able to live a more youthful, more active life well into “old age”.

Get To Know Your Skin's Anatomy

Skin has 3 layers - the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue.

1. Epidermis: The epidermis is located on the Outer Layer of Skin and can be visibly seen on the surface. The epidermis is the thinnest of the layers but also is ironically the main barrier of protection for the entire body. The epidermis is the thinnest on the eyelids at .05 mm and the thickest on the palms and soles at 1.5 mm. The thickness of the epidermis varies for different types of skin. The epidermis also contains the pigment melanin that gives skin its color.

There are 5 delicate layers of cells that make up the entire epidermis. From bottom (most internal) to top (most external) the layers are named:

stratum basal

stratum spinosum

stratum granulosum

stratum licidum

stratum corneum

Approximately every twenty-seven days new skin is regenerated through skin cell turnover. The bottom layer, known as stratum corneum, is where new skin cells originate. As cells are created they crowd and are pushed upward into the next higher layer. As the cells move into the higher layers, they flatten and eventually die. As old, dead skin cells reach the outer surface, they slough off replaced by the upward moving cells below them.

2. Dermis: The Middle Layer underneath supporting the epidermis is known as the dermis. The dermis is a complex matrix of hair follicles, blood vessels, and sebaceous (oil) glands.

The dermis contains elastic fibers known as elastin and protein fibers called collagen, and fibroblasts "glue like" cells that synthesize collagen and elastin together to form skin's elasticity, support, and suppleness.

Elastin, like the word elastic is the protein that works with collagen in the dermis, giving skin vital snap or spring allowing it to main firm structure. Elastin diminishes in our skin over time causing skin to loosen and sag.

The dermis layer is also responsible for wrinkles. Collagen, the fountain of youth is the most abundant protein making up 75% of skin. Overtime, environmental factors and aging deplete the body's ability to produce collagen.

3. Subcutaneous Tissue: Subcutaneous tissueis the layer of fat and connective tissue containing larger blood vessels and nerves. This layer works to regulate the temperature of the skin itself and the body. The thickness of this layer varies throughout the body and from person to person.

Why Qi-Gong Is A Natural Anti-Aging Tool

Qi gong is one of the most powerful tools for staying young and nourishing longevity. How does it work?

Builds Internal Strength and Suppleness

Unlike other forms of traditional western exercise, qi gong trains the energy of the body to invigorate internal organs to promote balanced health and prolong youthful appearance.

For example, in the Chinese medicine system, the spleen is said to rule the muscles of the body. Certain qi gong movements stimulate the spleen organ and its associated energy pathways. Thus, when one performs qi gong movements that target the spleen, the muscles become more youthful, supple and free of wrinkles (especially in the case of the muscles of the face).

As an example, I am often mistaken for a woman in my early thirties despite being in my mid forties.

Also, since qi gong involves deep breath work, greater levels of oxygen enter the bloodstream to help rejuvenate the internal organs on a cellular level.

Last, on an energetic level, it is said that our essential energy or jing is responsible for youthfulness and housed in the organs of the kidneys.

Qi gong movements nourish the energy of kidneys. Thus, many qi gong masters have strong kidneys and often appear untouched by time.

Creates Youthful Brain Cells

Researchers at the University of California at Irvine discovered that when qi is emitted by qi gong masters, a greater perfusion of blood occurred within the brain.

Greater perfusion of blood nourishes the brain cells to help prevent dementia and other cognitive and mental conditions associated with aging. Thus, performing qi gong can help keep the brain and mind young and vibrant.

Prevents Conditions that Prematurely Age the Body

Qi gong also promotes greater states of relaxation. As a result, heath conditions that are influenced by stress such as premature graying, high blood pressure, and certain types of immunity imbalances, occur less in individuals practicing qi gong.

Manages and Resolves Conditions that Age the Body

Qi gong circle walking is especially effective as a healing tool for people who have cancer which plays a large role in cellular break down and premature aging. At Stanford University, Dr Arnold Tayam, head instructor of the qi gong program, uses a special form of qi gong circle walking to help promote greater states of relaxation and rejuvenation to help facilitate greater healing with cancer patients.

Nourishes the Spirit and the Body

Qi Gong facilitates a connection with a higher power through meditation and movement.

David Felton, MD, a renowned immunologist who conducted research at the University of California, found that the immunity system is strengthened by spiritual practices.

Therefore, qi gong, as a spiritual practice, can play a role in helping the immunity system stay balanced to prevent conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis often associated with aging although juvenile forms can also occur.

Creates Youthful Bones

Qi gong nourishes the bones in two ways. By strengthening the internal organ of the kidneys, said to rule the bones in the Chinese medicine system, bones tend to heal faster and have greater protection against degeneration and osteoporosis.

As an example, a 74 years old client who performs qi gong everyday, was able to have her cast removed two weeks ahead of schedule following ankle surgery because her bones mended more rapidly than a similar patient who was half her age but not performing qi gong.

In summary, qi gong can promote greater states of youthfulness and longevity by nourishing the internal organs, muscular and bone systems, and by promoting greater mental and spiritual balance.

A Chinese Prescription To Prolong Aging

Delay aging means prolonging your productive life. It also means keeping you healthy as long as possible so that you are able to enjoy a better life. Everyone knows that we are swimming against the current of aging and natural death. In this process, we should try to prevent the symptoms of old age from appearing earlier or from becoming debilitating.

Aging can be a depressing experience if you think about withering away in a helpless situation. Therefore, the goal to combat aging is to maintain your health strong enough so that you can take care of yourself and perform what you are capable of doing as you move on.

Nature of aging:

• Aging and health deterioration goes hand in hand.
• In normal circumstances, your body stops growing around 20, followed by a so-called prime or plateau period lasting until 40.
• Most young people don't worry about aging. Why should they?
• When you reach 40 or later, and begin to feel some downhill symptoms, suddenly you'll appreciate the meaning of aging.
• Aging occurs gradually from 40 to 50, which may not be noticeable. Then it may occur in a step function, enough to make you nervous.
• There are of course some exceptions to the above description.
• The general rule is that if you care about maintaining good health even when you are young, the downhill symptoms will occur later rather than sooner.
• Health maintenance should be cultivated as a habit or lifestyle.
• Prevention should be taken more seriously.

Examples of downhill symptoms:

• Decrease in physical endurance, especially in sports activities.
• Energy depletion, more rest to replenish energy.
• Slower response time.
• Memory not as good as before.
• Joint pains more frequent and intense.
• Weight gain due to metabolic change.
• Menopause in females.
• Less fertile and less sexual desire.
• Countless others more serious and scary.

Do not fantasize about miracle herbs that can bring back the fountain of youth. The movies and some businessmen say those herbs exist. The Chinese Emperors had been looking for them all the time. The Emperors were the most spoiled bunch. Many of them died young because they did not take care of their health. They ordered the eunuchs to find the miracle herbs. The smart eunuchs would run away because they knew they could never find them. The less smart ones returned with some fake things, only to face execution because they could not deliver.

During the Three-Kingdoms period in China, the legendary herbalist Hua Tuo ïW was executed circa 205 A.D. by Cao Cao uI for refusing to devote full-time to curing Cao's chronic headaches. The fact that Hua Tuo was executed late in his professional life in his 90's shows that he had found a way to delay aging.

The Chinese approach to delay aging emphasizes strengthening and prevention by adopting a healthy lifestyle, eating the right kind of food, and using medicinal herbs as a supplement. The herbs aim to enhance overall body functions, with special attention paid to weaker organs. A stronger body is the best defense against disease and aging. The following herbs are recommended for health enhancement:

1) Strengthen overall Ren Shen ºÃ Dang Shen èà Bai Zhu }. Fu Ling Ó Gan Cao I

2) Strengthen blood Chuan Xiong ÝŽ Dang Gui vx Di Huang 0à Chi Shao d

3) Enhance Qi circulation Huang Qi à Sang Ji Sheng QÄ Suo Yang –}

4) Reduce excess heat Huang Qin é A total of 13 herbs are used.

Drink one cup (8 oz) of herb tea a day, preferably in the morning to allow for dissipation of excess heat generated by the strengthening herbs. You don't need the herb tea for consecutive days. Drinking 10 to 20 cups of herb tea within a month will suffice normally.

This is just one formula with countless variations depending on:

* How accurate the herbalist can pinpoint your weak organs.

* How weak is your body initially.

* How does your body respond to the herbs.

Secrets To Live To Your 100th Birthday

I can't remember having met anyone who lived to their 100th birthday, although I know it happens. My wife and I joke that we're going to live to 102 and 100 and die together, after both receiving our 100th birthday gifts from our kids. What are our odds and how do we make it there?

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, today, more than 70,000 Americans are 100 years old, and that number will grow dramatically during the next century. Unless I'm off on my math, that's about 1 in every 5,000 Americans. So the American centenarian is a rare, but a growing part of the population.

Because our goal is to age this well, I've done a little research on centenarians who've made it their 100th birthday. My wife and I have decided against holding their secrets to ourselves, because we'll want some folks our age to hold a dance with for our 100th birthday party. So, without further adieu, we reveal the fountain of youth.

Don't Drink or Smoke
The "New England Centenarian Study" by Thomas Perls M.D., M.P.H. examines people age 100 and above in order to help everyone else learn how to age well. Most important is to avoid smoking, eat well, and exercise. As Mormons, this part didn't bother us too bad, but we have some friends who might drop out of the centenarian race just for their favorite unhealthy habits. "Who wants to go to your party without smoking and drinking anyway?" They'd probably say.

Dr. Perls has created a calculator on www.livingto100.com that estimates your life expectancy. I took the test and it told me I'm only going to make it to 90 years. Dang it. Here's what I'm going to have to fix:

1. Move my exercise from 3 to 6 times per week (will give me 5 years).

2. Start going to the Doctor for checkups (will give me 2 years).

3. Reduce my stress level and the hours I work every week (3 years).

Those changes will get me there, but I wonder about number three. Some sage centenarians have hinted otherwise.

No Retirement
Richard Bird, an attorney in Utah, says, "My feeling is that people who stop working die...this (coming daily to the office) keeps me interested, it keeps me alive, and that's why I continue to do it." (see Deseret Morning News, April 13, 2007). I tend to agree with Bird, the thought of retirement sounds boring and unfulfilled. I'm going to keep on working and serving until I receive my 100th birthday gift.

NPR tells the story of the 100 year old on Wallstreet, Irving Kahn. He rang the New York Stock Exchange bell on his hundredth birthday and still serves as chairman of an investment management firm. I think he'd side with Richard Bird and with me, rather than with Dr. Perls.

Cold-showers

My last piece of advice, by far the most humorous, comes from Edward Rondthaler, who writes a weekly column for his local newspaper, walks a half-mile every morning and drives himself on errands around his hometown of Croton-on-Hudson, New York (CNN, November 16, 2005). Rondthaler recounts, "When my brother in 1918 came home from the army, he said, 'Ed, whenever you take a hot shower, end it with an ice cold one and count to 100.' When your older brother tells you to do something, you do it...I've learned to count pretty fast. It gets you out of the tub quickly."

There you have it folks, the secrets to attending our dance party and joining us in opening our 100th birthday gift. Don't smoke or drink, keep working and living and take cold showers. We hope to see you there.

Tips To Live A Longer Life

The more you understand about any subject, the more interesting it becomes. As you read this article you'll find that the subject of Longer Life is certainly no exception.

We all like to receive those compliments where someone thinks we are a good few years younger then we actually are! Here are a few simple tips you can apply to your thinking that will change the way you look at age.

1. Throw out nonessential numbers.

This includes age, weight and height. Let the doctors worry about them. That is why you pay them!

2. Keep only cheerful friends.

I'm sure you have spent time with someone and walked away feeling so heavy and burdened. These people age you! They seem to always have problems and issues that they need to talk on and on about! They will pull you down. I'm not saying you do not see them, but just limit the time you spend with them and focus on the friendships that uplift you.

3. Keep learning.

Try and learn and new skill every year. It may be to learn more about the computer, crafts, gardening, whatever. Never let the brain idle.

4. Enjoy the simple things.

You may not consider everything you just read to be crucial information about Longer Life. But don't be surprised if you find yourself recalling and using this very information in the next few days.

Life today is so quick, it can be difficult to appreciate the simple everyday things. Take a good look around your house, friends and family and appreciate all the good things that are in your world.

5. Laugh often, long and loud.

If life and responsibilities have been getting you down and you feel burdened, go see a comedian and laugh and laugh! You will feel so much better afterwards!

6. The tears happen.

Life is not always easy and it is not always lovely. But, remember that the only person, who is with you your entire life, is yourself. Be ALIVE while you are alive.

7. Cherish your health.

If it is good, preserve it. If it is unstable, improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve, get help.

8. Don't take guilt trips.

It can be so easy to ponder on what life could have bee if only.... don't do this. You will end up spiraling down and down! If you are not happy with life, set a few goals to change the things you need to change. Focus on the future, not the past.

Take time to consider the points presented above. What you learn may help you overcome your hesitation to take action.

What Are The Causes of Age Spots

The more you understand about any subject, the more interesting it becomes. As you read this article you'll find that the subject of anti aging is certainly no exception.

Dark spots on the skin typically appear once people get older, and are usually flat dark spots that come out on skin that has been exposed to the sun. Age spots usually show up first on the back of the hands or the lower arms, then they may appear on the chest, neck, and face. The more the skin has been exposed to the sun, the more likely the risks of getting these spots. Age spots are also sometimes called liver spots or sun spots. Pigment creating cells inside the skin are triggered to make more pigment by exposure to ultraviolet radiation. They are normally not cancerous, but they may lead to skin cancer sometime later in life.

Age spots may grow with maturity, and frequently appear after lengthy exposure to the sun. They are much more frequent in people who freckle and who are sensitive to the sun. Although age spots aren't a guarantee, those who have been regularly exposed to too much sun have a a good deal higher danger of getting skin cancer.

I trust that what you've read so far has been informative. The following section should go a long way toward clearing up any uncertainty that may remain.

These age spots usually vary in both shape and size. Most appear unraised and round with asymmetric borders and, as previously noted, are commonly found on sun-exposed skin like the upper back, shoulders, face, neck, forearms, and the top of the hands.

The most effective treatment for the prevention of age spots is to prevent unprotected exposure to the sun by always applying sunblock when going outdoors. If it is already too late for this remedy, there are some other treatments or procedures that may help lessen the consequences of over exposure. One popular alternative is the use of skin lighteners or skin bleaching agents. Many of these may be bought in a nonprescription form and could gradually lighten up age spots over several weeks or months. These creams, however, are usually not the most effective method. Some, depending on the ingredients, may cause side effects such as redness, drying, and peeling, and they can be very costly.

A different option would be to use chemical peels to get rid of the discolorations; they can also remove wrinkles and fine lines in the same treatment. Outer layer peels are completed very quickly and provide fast recovery time. Deeper skin peels are often much more effective, but they need a lengthier recovery time. Superficial chemical peels are normally rather safe, but they can be pricey because of the large number of routines involved before finding good results.

Now that wasn't hard at all, was it? And you've earned a wealth of knowledge, just from taking some time to study an expert's word on anti aging.

Anti-Aging Fear of Aging

The fear of aging affects every individual at one point or another. Aging is change to your body and mind through the course of one person's lifespan. Most people have a negative perception of aging to the point it creates extreme anxiety in their lives and devalues the quality of their life. As one grows fear of aging may mean the loss of beauty, the loss of teeth, wrinkles, and the loss of bodily organs.

This is a transformation of the physical realm of reality of which society heavily focuses. Indeed, society helps to feed this anxiety toward aging. As we age society seems t0 desire us less and less and contributes to the fear of aging. We are no longer useful in the labor force. We are no longer attractive. We are hidden from society by being put into homes so the rest of us don't have to be reminded that one day we will be in this very position and in fact it is inevitable.

Making the Process More Enjoyable

Consequently we feel powerless to this undesirable process. The fashion, cosmetic and plastic surgery industries are having a hay day over our anxieties and fear of aging. In fact, they feed our fears because after all it is in their economic interest to keep us fearing and buying their products and services in this vain believe that we will somehow avoid impending death.

However, there is more than one way to look at aging. In fact, the word has many negative connotations that come along with it. According to Buddha, in order to avoid suffering and pain we must detach from our physical reality and perceive it only as a temporary illusion. By doing so we release ourselves from fear and suffering. We decide to live in the moment and be grateful for good or bad and this includes the deterioration of the body.

In addition, our preoccupation with the loss of our youth prevents us from welcoming the changes and mystery the journey ahead presents. However, one can make a radical shift towards embracing the gifts of aging. There are other ways to deal with aging in order to create a positive, wonderful learning process.

As we grow older it is important we cultivate our relationships even more. We need to keep in contact with someone close through thick and thin and subsequently our relationships will be based on deeper factors rather than just the way someone looks.

Become aware of your spirit and develop spirituality when through prayer, meditation, or Yoga. We all need to feel the inner sense of our innate divinity.Lastly, make a difference in your world by doing something for people who need your help. All over the world, love and help is needed and by helping the animals, people or the earth we can tap into our inner power and let our true beauty shine at any age rather than focusing on the fear of aging.

Stress Relates To Skin Aging

By now most of us know that stress isn't good for us and that it can affect us in many different ways. But did you know that stress affects how our skin ages? Didn't know? Then it's about time you did! It just might be what has you looking rather "blah" these days.

Have you ever wondered why no matter how well you take care of your skin it seems to have a dull appearance? Or perhaps you find yourself suffering from excessive oil or skin that's really dry? There is a good chance that these problems can be caused by stress.

People react differently to stress but when we get to the physiological level our bodies all respond the same. That's because stress increases the production of adrenaline as well as the release of it into the bloodstream. Adrenaline is what gives you that "rush" or energy in stressful times. It speeds up your heartbeat, your breathing, and your metabolic rate. You've likely heard it referred as "fight of flight response."

Not all stress is bad but it needs to be balanced. It's important that you practice techniques that allow you to relax. Yoga is an excellent example of a stress reducing technique. If you don't learn how to balance your stress it will age not only your skin but your organs too.

Let's look at how uncontrolled stress can affect our skin.

1.Stress creates the production of adrenaline, which takes blood away from the skin, sending it to the muscles to give them increased strength to handle an emergency. When you have stress over a long time that release of adrenaline is ongoing and eventually it will leave your skin looking sallow and pale.

2.Intense emotion can cause your skin to break out. It can be excitement, frustration, or anger. That's because it stimulates the release of certain enzymes and hormones, which then send signals that cause the sebum to become overproduced, blocking the pores, and next thing you know you have zits.

3.When you have chronic stress your muscles tend to become stiff and tense, which causes the blood flow to the skin to become obstructed, hindering the removal of the waste from the tissue, causing your skin to look aged.

4.When you are stressed the rejuvenation of your skin is hampered. When this occurs dead layers of skin are not sloughed away as quickly leaving room for new skin. That means before you know it you are looking years older than you really are.

5.When you are under chronic stress you produce more cortisol, which causes the body's natural defenses to become weakened. That leaves your skin very vulnerable to pollutants in the environment. That means your skin will take on a pale tone with a grey tint making you look older.

Now that you know the effect stress has on causing your skin to age, you will want to learn techniques to deal with your stress so that you can keep your skin looking, healthy, younger, and more beautiful. Learn to handle stress, take care of yourself, and your whole body, including your skin will look younger as a result.

Anti Aging Tips For Your Forties

How long are you going to live? Of course, no-one has the answer, but you may have more control over your longevity than you think. The choices you make every day can significantly influence the length of your life.You're probably wondering how you can make the most of your life and keep the aging process at bay. Well, in order to live a healthy, robust, and vibrant life, here are some anti aging fitness tips that will keep your body and mind feeling young:

Tip #1 - Strength Training - One great tip that will help you stay young is to start strength training. Sure, there are other forms of exercise that are great as well; however, keeping muscle mass even as you age is crucial. Believe it or not, after you get into your mid forties you will begin to lose about ¼ pound of muscle every year and fat comes in its place. However, if you do the right strength training exercises you can keep from losing this muscle and you can even work on regaining muscle mass. Just lifting weights for about 30 minutes a few times a week can provide great benefits. You'll sleep and think better, your bones will be stronger, you'll have more endurance, and you'll have less chance of developing diabetes.

Tip #2 - Start Walking - When it comes to anti aging fitness, you don't need to start exercising hours a day; in fact, here is a very simple exercise that is so great for people who want to avoid aging. Walking is a great form of exercise that is low impact and it can also help to increase the flexibility of the walls of your arteries as well. Just going out on a nice walk five days a week for about 30 minutes is enough. This type of exercise can help reduce your risk of developing diabetes, depression, dementia, cancers, and even aging of the skin.

Tip #3 - Eat Healthy - Another important tip to remember if you want to keep young and fit is to eat healthy. Your diet should consist of plenty of fruits and vegetables daily as well as whole grains to help you get the vitamins, minerals, and micronutrients that you need. You should also make sure that you drink plenty of water. Only about 30-35% of your calories per day should come from fats. Plenty of protein should be part of your diet and you should work to make sure that most of the carbohydrates in your diet are complex ones, such as wild rice, oatmeal, and whole wheat bread.

So, even though you may be getting older in years, each of these anti aging fitness tips can help you look and feel younger than your actual age. Keep a great attitude about life, incorporate these tips, and you'll begin to reap the benefits.