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Women in their late 20s to early 40s face unique health needs. View images on maintaining wellness to learn more.
Siri Stafford/Photodisc/ThinkstockAchieving both beauty and well-being is within reach for women who dedicate some effort to preserving their health. The secret? Balance.
Identifying signs of stress
Balancing work, family responsibilities, financial concerns, and caring for elderly parents are just some of the common stressors women face today. The following tips may help you keep stress in check:
- maintain a well-balanced, nutritious diet
- engage in regular physical activity, as exercise boosts self-esteem, mental well-being, and physical health. Be mindful—if exercise causes pain, difficulty breathing, or faintness, it’s a sign to slow down.
- 20 to 30 minutes of exercise, three times a week, can lower the risk of heart disease and osteoporosis, alleviate chronic disease-related pain, and improve strength, flexibility, and endurance
- organize and prioritize your schedule; make sure to carve out time for yourself
- find harmony between work and leisure
- allow yourself to laugh and cry; both laughter and tears help relieve tension
Skin care issues and solutions
Your skin acts as the body’s first line of defense against infections and diseases, while also protecting internal organs from injury. It helps regulate body temperature and prevents dehydration. Additionally, it plays a role in expelling excess water and salt.
When your skin becomes dry, it requires both hydration and nourishment to restore its health. Experts recommend a simple skincare routine: use a gentle cleanser with warm (not hot) water, avoid harsh scrubs (which can cause skin damage and irritate pores), and apply moisturizer and sunscreen as needed.
Anyone can develop skin cancer, but individuals with fair skin are generally at a higher risk than those with darker skin tones. The first signs of serious skin damage often appear as actinic keratoses. These precancerous growths manifest as itchy, tender, crusted bumps on areas like the back of the hands, lips, face, or neck.
Limiting sun exposure is the most effective way to maintain healthy skin.
Copyright 2003 National Women's Health Resource Center Inc. (NWHRC)
