“It’s paradoxical that the idea of living a long life appeals to everyone, but the idea of getting old doesn’t appeal to anyone.” -Andy Rooney
I had made another stop by my favorite Korean cosmetics boutique near my town — my second trip in the past two weeks. I’m trying to find some kind of magical potion that will eradicate the dark circles under my eyes. At this point, I’ve tried many products, even from different parts of the world. But while on my skincare search I’ve realized that the problem with my approach is that I’m trying to fix something that doesn’t actually need fixing.
One of the effects of my open heart surgery is that I now live with oxygen levels that are a bit lower than normal, which shows on my face at the end of the day or when I’ve had a busy schedule. How? Dark circles under my eyes. I know that this is not a phenomena. In fact, even people with perfect arteries experience dark circles from time to time. But that little problem combined with other aging factors has me thinking about my stronger and better looking days. Even though I would not go back to those days again if given the chance, I do reminisce from time to time of that healthier and much more youthful body that carried itself through life fearlessly and sometimes recklessly.
I have learned a lot through the years, and I feel grateful for the perspective I’ve gained on life, faith and other things. I have especially found an acceptance towards the aging process that I never thought I would have. Recently, I read a quote where actress Drew Barrymore said that she had never done anything (cosmetic procedures) to her face and that she wants to age naturally. In the same industry as hers, other actresses of a mature age have had several visits to plastic surgeons in order to hold on to their careers a little longer. But sadly, no matter how hard we try, the aging process is unstoppable.
Since we cannot avoid aging, perhaps we should embrace it. Here I put together some tips to help us out as we continue to seek for grace in the fated aging design, which we are all a part of.
- Moisturize frequently (both men and women) – I began moisturizing as a young child (thank you, Mom!), and I never go to bed without first washing my face and then moisturizing. I am grateful for that wisdom because now, at 54 years of age, I do not have a face full of wrinkles and lines. My new favorite anti-aging products are the ones with double moisturizer (see below).
- Eat healthier – This is important, but not because of dieting so that you can lose weight. Eating healthier keeps our bodies moving as they should according to our age-defined needs.
- Dress comfortably and age appropriately – This one is a biggie! No matter how great that mini skirt or skinny jeans look on a 30-year-old, when you are past 60, you need to recognize that you no longer have a young body. Now, this does not mean you have to live in your pajamas. Dress well and be comfortable, but choose age-appropriate styles.
- Socialize – Don’t become a recluse just because you are aging. Instead, go out and live life to the best of your abilities. Socializing helps keep you current, and gives you purpose as you impart your wisdom to others.
- Find a new hobby – I have found hobbies that make me feel happy about being alive regardless of my age or health. Whatever works for you, go at it wholeheartedly.
- Exercise – I no longer run or lift heavy weights, and the StairMaster is my worst enemy! However, I walk regularly, do some stretching, and use less heavy weights. I have replaced my StairMaster frenemy with the elliptical, and we have become good friends… for now. Modify your exercise routine, but don’t quit.
- Get regular checkups – This one is imperative as we age. As more care becomes necessary, so do more frequent doctor visits. You don’t have to hate it. Those regular checkups are responsible for your children and grandchildren being able to enjoy you much longer.
- Rest more – The truth is, as you age, you get tired more frequently, so this one should be a no-brainer.
- Work your brain – Now, more than ever, you need to put your brain to work. Try to to do some brain-boosting exercises like puzzles, reading more and playing games such as Sodoku or word puzzles that make you engage your brain. Also, drink more water and herbal teas such as ginseng that help with brain health and memory.
- Take your vitamins – Yes! As you age, your body needs more vitamin C, D, collagen, hormones, hair support, calcium, etc. Talk to your physician about the best vitamins for your overall health needs.
“There is a fountain of youth: it is your mind, your talents, the creativity you bring to your life and the lives of people you love. When you learn to tap this source, you will truly have defeated age.” -Sophia Loren
Recommendations
Obviously, I am not a man. However, I still wanted to share some resources that might be helpful for the fellas out there. Check out this article with the best 2023 products for men. Perhaps you will find a new fave among them.
These are my “go-to” shops for all my skincare and cosmetics needs:
Sooni & Tommi Ulta Beauty Innisfree Etude House
As I mentioned earlier, I’ve gathered quite the collection of moisturizers and skincare products from places around the world. But here are a few outstanding items that I just can’t do without:
(Top row) RiceFila Cleansing Oil and RiceFila Double Moisturizing Cream by Hayejin – The only thing I can say about both RiceFila products is that I’ll be buying more!
(Bottom row) Floria Nutra Energy 100 Hours Cream – Great moisturizer that lasts all day long.
Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer – I use this one mostly when I am out and about because your face feels moisturized all day. The SPF gives an added layer of skin protection and you can also use it on your hands and body.
Etude House Moistfull Collagen Intense Cream – This moisturizing cream is amazing! It’s smooth, smells terrific and does the job.
How are you embracing aging with grace?