purple leopard pants, thrifted style, duster cardigan, fashion over 40, Shelbee on the Edge

11 Ways to Look and Feel Your Very Best

purple leopard pants, thrifted style, duster cardigan, fashion over 40, Shelbee on the Edge
purple leopard pants, thrifted style, duster cardigan, fashion over 40, Shelbee on the Edge
purple leopard pants, thrifted style, duster cardigan, fashion over 40, Shelbee on the Edge
purple leopard pants, thrifted style, duster cardigan, fashion over 40, Shelbee on the Edge
purple leopard pants, thrifted style, duster cardigan, fashion over 40, Shelbee on the Edge
purple leopard pants, thrifted style, duster cardigan, fashion over 40, Shelbee on the Edge
purple leopard pants, thrifted style, duster cardigan, fashion over 40, Shelbee on the Edge
*Contributed content.

Do you often feel overwhelmed by the endless tasks of every day life? Are you always in a hurry trying to get all the things done but never quite managing it? While keeping busy and engaged is a healthy way to approach life, finding balance between productivity and self care is necessary to assure that you can be the very best version of yourself.

In order to find that best version of you, it is absolutely essential to take proper care of all aspects of yourself. Your physical, mental, and emotional health are all of equal importance for maximum performance and enjoyment in life. I have outlined 11 tips and ideas to help redirect you on your path of self care. When we make self care a priority, we tend to create a natural energy that speaks self love and confidence to the world.

1. Develop an exercise routine.

Getting plenty of exercise each day is necessary for your overall health both physically and mentally. If exercise is an area that you struggle with, try to find activities that you enjoy doing so that you can maintain your interest and motivation to keep a regular exercise schedule. Regular exercise also helps to boost your levels of energy to get through all of your daily obligations.

Another benefit of exercise is obviously weight management and maintenance. If you are wanting to lose a few pounds or even gain a few pounds to make your clothing fit better and feel better in your skin, it is important to develop a routine that matches your intentions. Daily exercise, even for just 20 minutes, will also boost your mood and improve your mental health. The options for developing a personalized exercise routine are endless. You can join a gym, engage in outdoor activities like running, walking, or biking, or you can simply work out home.

2. Maintain a well balanced diet.

How our bodies feel is directly impacted by the food we consume. If your diet consists of unhealthy food choices, your body will always feel less than optimally healthy. When you begin changing your diet to include healthier options, you will quickly begin to notice that you have more energy. Choose foods like leafy greens, fresh fruits and vegetables, and lean proteins while avoiding sugary and fatty foods as well as foods that are high in carbohydrates. In addition to a change in diet, integrating dietary supplements into your daily routine can also be beneficial, particularly for your digestive health. For examples of how these supplements have had a positive impact on the well-being of others, you can explore Morning Complete reviews.

Portion control is another beneficial way to create healthier eating habits. Sometimes it is better to cook at home so you can choose your fresh ingredients as well as control your portions. As you transition your dietary habits, you will quickly start to notice that you will sleep better, your skin will glow healthier, inflammation and bloating will decrease, and energy levels will increase.

*Contributed content.
purple leopard pants, thrifted style, duster cardigan, fashion over 40, Shelbee on the Edge
purple leopard pants, thrifted style, duster cardigan, fashion over 40, Shelbee on the Edge
purple leopard pants, thrifted style, duster cardigan, fashion over 40, Shelbee on the Edge
purple leopard pants, thrifted style, duster cardigan, fashion over 40, Shelbee on the Edge
purple leopard pants, thrifted style, duster cardigan, fashion over 40, Shelbee on the Edge
purple leopard pants, thrifted style, duster cardigan, fashion over 40, Shelbee on the Edge
purple leopard pants, thrifted style, duster cardigan, fashion over 40, Shelbee on the Edge
3. Focus on your personal style.

I know we all have fallen into the loungewear trap this past year, but it is time to ditch the sweats and start getting dressed in clothing that makes you feel your absolute best. Do you have a favorite color that accentuates your eyes? Or a dress that highlights your best features? Have you been saving them for a special occasion?

Why not start looking at each new day as a special occasion and start wearing your wardrobe favorites now? And remember to go for it when it comes to accessorizing your outfits. Accessories can definitely contribute to a more personalized style. Maybe you want to invest in beautiful pieces like the accessory collections offer by Allurez jewelry. Make your outfits more intersting with statement earrings that add sparkle, a pendant necklace that showcases your personality, or a unique ring that sends a bold message.

4. Develop healthy sleep habits.

Poor sleep habits like not getting enough sleep or having interrupted sleep can lead to a consistent feeling of lethargy. Both our bodies and our brains require adequate amounts of sleep for maximum performance and functioning. When we are tired, we tend to make more mistakes and we quickly lose efficiency in our productivity.

Developing healthy sleep habits does not just mean getting a certain amount of hours of sleep per night. It is important to create optimal sleep conditions in your bedroom as well. Make sure that the lighting is dark enough and the noise levels are not disruptive so you can sleep through the night without waking. Investing in a quality mattress as well as comfortable quality bedding is also important for creating an optimal sleep space.

Bedtime routines are equally important so that you can go to bed calm, leaving the stresses of the day behind. Bedtime yoga or meditation are great ways to properly clear your mind for a more peaceful slumber. Once you consistently get proper sleep each night, your energy and motivation for each day will increase exponentially. When you have an extra bounce in your gait, you exude more attractive energy as well.

5. Reduce and manage stress levels.

High levels of stress are extremely detrimental to your overall health. It can lead to all sorts of physical and mental health issues if you do not find healthy ways to manage it. To increase your quality of life, it is important to reduce and manage your stress.

You may be wondering how you can reduce stress that is caused by daily life obligations and responsibilities. Choosing a healthy diet and implementing an exercise routine are the first steps towards reducing levels of stress. Meditation, yoga, and coastal cannabis are other wonderfully beneficial methods for reducing stress and anxiety and aiding healthier sleep patterns. I personally use all of the above mentioned stress management tools from meditation to marijuana and the combination has exponentially increased my quality of life.

I cannot emphasize enough the importance of minimizing stress and anxiety in order to start living your very best life. Stress is a major contributor to feeling chaotic and overwhelmed. Finding a proper work-life balance with at least as much focus on yourself as on your work will greatly improve your quality of life. You will feel healthier, more energized, and more productive when you can properly balance all areas of your life.

6. Practice gratitude daily.

Gratitude is the most powerful way to shift your perceptions, reorganize your priorities, and gain a more positive outlook on life. You can practice daily gratitude exercises like keeping a gratitude journal listing something that you are grateful for each and every day. If you are having a down day, you can revisit your gratitude entries to help reset your perspective to a more optimistic outlook.

If you take a few moments every morning to reflect on the things that make you feel grateful, it will set a more positive tone for your days, it will decrease anxiety, and foster a more relaxed energy. Make gratitude the foundation for your life and you will quickly begin to notice how much more fulfilling your life becomes.

purple leopard pants, thrifted style, duster cardigan, fashion over 40, Shelbee on the Edge
purple leopard pants, thrifted style, duster cardigan, fashion over 40, Shelbee on the Edge
purple leopard pants, thrifted style, duster cardigan, fashion over 40, Shelbee on the Edge
purple leopard pants, thrifted style, duster cardigan, fashion over 40, Shelbee on the Edge
purple leopard pants, thrifted style, duster cardigan, fashion over 40, Shelbee on the Edge
purple leopard pants, thrifted style, duster cardigan, fashion over 40, Shelbee on the Edge
purple leopard pants, thrifted style, duster cardigan, fashion over 40, Shelbee on the Edge
7. Rock your favorite hairstyle.

Styling and maintaining your hair is another great way to ensure that you will have confidence in the way you look which leads to feeling better about yourself all around. If you are unhappy with your current hairstyle for any reason, consult with your stylist about the most flattering style that works for you and your life. Regular hair care maintenance is essential for feeling your best every day.

If you color your hair, be sure to color it regularly to avoid feeling a mess when your roots start showing. Also be sure to choose a hair color that is most flattering for your skin tone and eye color. Avoid daily washing of your locks as well to maintain healthy, shiny hair. It is also fun to have a few different ways to style your hair so that you have variety of looks to fall back on.

8. Remember to smile often.

It has been shown that the simple act of smiling can immediately lift your spirits and improve your mood. When you are in a good mood, your joy shines through your face and makes you more approachable. Frequent smilers also want to showcase beautiful, healthy smiles, so be sure to maintain proper dental hygiene at home as well scheduling regular visits to the dentist.

As you leave the house each day, check your smile in the mirror so you can see the physical benefits offered with a simple flash of a genuine smile. It will surely encourage you to smile more often which in turn will encourage others to smile more.

9. Be diligent with your skin care routine.

When you meet people, the first thing they will notice is your face so you want to have healthy radiant skin that will give you confidence in your appearance. Daily cleansing and moisturizing are essential for blemish free skin that glows. Proper diet and hydration as well as adequate sleep are also key in maintaining healthy skin. Be diligent with sun protection to minimize the unhealthy signs of aging. Boasting clear and radiant skin will always make you step out into the world with confidence in your appearance.

10. Be self-confident.

Self-confidence can be a struggle for many of us but it is essential to find ways to feel confident in ourselves so that we can live our very best lives. Self-confidence absolutely shows outwardly in your appearance and in return makes you feel and look better. If you suffer from low self esteem, try to implement methods for boosting self-confidence like focusing on your achievements instead of your short comings, practicing positive self talk, and focusing on your unique qualities that make you stand out in the world.

Other ways to exude self-confidence include proper posture with your head held high and your shoulders back as well as an authentic smile on your face. People tend to be more drawn to us and our personalities when we are open, honest, vulnerable, and confident in our own skin.

purple leopard pants, thrifted style, duster cardigan, fashion over 40, Shelbee on the Edge
purple leopard pants, thrifted style, duster cardigan, fashion over 40, Shelbee on the Edge
purple leopard pants, thrifted style, duster cardigan, fashion over 40, Shelbee on the Edge
purple leopard pants, thrifted style, duster cardigan, fashion over 40, Shelbee on the Edge
11. Minimize screen time.

We are constantly looking for ways to limit screen time for our children because of the detrimental effects, but we too often forget that those detrimental effects also apply to adults. Spending too much time online or engrossed in your social media feeds can have negative effects on self-confidence and self worth. The internet is a breeding ground for the comparison game which leaves too many people feeling inadequate in life and insecure in themselves. To avoid the comparison game altogether, try to shift much focus away from social media and live your life being present in your life.

Social media can also be a huge time trap if you don’t intentionally limit how much of your day you spend scrolling. But if you apply strict limitations to your screen time, you will quickly discover how much more free time you have to enjoy all of the other wonderful things that life has to offer. Go outside, reconnect with nature, breathe the fresh air, and notice an instant boost in your mood and self-confidence.

Conclusion

These 11 ideas are a great starting point as you begin to focus on ways to live your best life. Keep in mind, however, that changing your habits and shifting your perception take time so you must be patient with yourself and trust the process. As you begin making these transitions, it may be challenging at first, but continue to follow through knowing that once you have formed new habits, they will be easier to stick to. It is also important to remind yourself that self care is never selfish. We cannot offer our best selves to the world if we are not taking proper action to be our best selves.

purple leopard pants, thrifted style, duster cardigan, fashion over 40, Shelbee on the Edge

How are you living your best life?

Keeping it on the edge,

Shelbee

Linking up with these Fabulous Link Parties.

Outfit Details: Cardigan (Lularoe) and Tank Top (Ralph Lauren)-Thrifted / Pants-Torrid / Boots-Old Navy / Earrings-c/o Anjolee / Necklace-Old / Hat-Linda Gibbs Handmade

I am a midlife woman, wife, and stay-at-home mother of 2 boys and 2 cats. I have a passion for helping other women feel fabulous in the midst of this crazy, beautiful life.

22 Comments

  • Michelle

    I love this outfit1 I really need to crochet myself some hats. They are a frequent item that makes your outfits unique.

    I think the thing I need to work on is allowing myself a day off on low energy days rather than having the expectation that I should be able to do the same as on a normal energy day. And yet I struggle with this. Blogging and reading blogs is the toughest for me on these days, because I am interacting with people even if it is virtual. And yet I am totally understanding of others’ low energy days. Why not mine? LOL!

    Michelle
    https://mybijoulifeonline.com

    • shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com

      Thanks so much, Michelle! You definitely should make yourself some hats! I love these lightweight knit hats for spring and summer for those bad hair days when I either didn’t wash my hair or my roots are getting bad. You know, I find visiting and commenting on blogs to be rather tiring as well and I never cut myself a break either, always feeling like I need to be productive in some way. But we do need days of rest as well. And when I am having low energy days, I do allow myself to physically take a break, but the whole time I am mentally abusing myself for not being productive. I do not know why we do these things to ourselves! Take care, my friend!

      xoxo
      Shelbee

  • Mica

    What a lovely light duster cardigan! It pairs so nicely with the printed pants 🙂 These are good tips too! Although I confess I don’t do any formal exercise each day we like our hikes on the weekends and I count running around with the kids as my daily exercise, haha!

    Hope that you had a great weekend 🙂

    • shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com

      Thanks so much, Mica! This duster cardigan was a wonderful thrift shop find from a few years ago. I think this might be the first time I am wearing it though! And I, too, often count running around with the kids as my daily exercise. There is no shame in that because kids require much running! Have a fabulous week.

      xoxo
      Shelbee

  • Rena

    Great tips and you look amazing! I, for one, never realized how sleep-deprived I was and how that affected how I felt until I retired. There are few greater joys than knowing you can wake up when you want to and not be dreading the buzz of your alarm clock.

    Rena
    http://www.finewhateverblog.com

    • shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com

      Thanks so much, Rena! I have not set an alarm clock in years because I automatically wake up long before 6:00 a.m. every morning and I certainly do not need to be anywhere at that hour! It is so much better to wake naturally than by an alarm. I kind of force that on my kids as well with earlier bedtimes so they wake for school on their own. I find when I have to wake them, they are kind of miserable for the whole rest of the day. Adequate sleep is so important and we forget that too often, I think! I hope you are well, my fried. Have a fabulous week!

      xoxo
      Shelbee

  • Maureen

    These are great tips Shelbee! I do most of what you have listed except for sleeping and getting dressed up. My son is so energetic that we go into the wee hours of the night sometimes just trying to get him to fall asleep. But regardless of what time I sleep, I wake up automatically at the same time! Doh! So sleep lately has been lacking. Working out though on the other hand, does wonders! I love all the good emotions and feelings it associated with. I hope your week is off to a great start and happy Monday!

    Maureen | http://www.littlemisscasual.com

    • shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com

      Thanks so much, Maureen! I am absolutely the same way with waking up at the same time every day regardless of my bedtime the previous night. So I do try to be fairly strict with my bedtime routine so I don’t get too tired! But you know, this parenting thing can exhaust you no matter how much sleep you get. I hope you are well, my friend! I am so glad that spring has finally arrived in my part of the world!

      xoxo
      Shelbee

  • Sheila (of Ephemera)

    Great reminders to keep on doing all that self-care (I’m due for an allover colour soon), Shelbee! I used to use the analogy of “well-being is a three-legged stool”, with emotional, physical and mental health being the “legs” – you can’t balance your stool unless you’re looking after all three legs!

    I adore your majestic, swoopy duster/cardi! This warm brown/black palette is really nice on you, and gives you a warm glow. I laughed at your “peek-a-boo” pose with the tree branches, ha ha! So cute!

    • shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com

      Thanks so much, my sweet friend! I am way overdue for an all over color, too. I do need a trim as well. The last time I went was in June. Your three legged stool analogy is absolute perfection and I will be using that from now on when necessary! Oh my gosh, I have taken so many tree hugging poses recently, too. This is just the beginning of my spring time tree loving vibe!

      xoxo
      Shelbee

  • Suzy

    Such wonderful advice, Shelbee! There are some things here that I’m afraid I’m guilty of. I know I get way too much screen time, and I’m definitely not getting enough exercise—other than 20 mins of gentle yoga followed by a 20-30 minute dog walk most days. It’s not really enough, is it?! I know I need to do some cardio for my heart!
    Hugs
    Suzy xx

    • shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com

      Thanks so much, Suzy! Honestly, I only do about 30-45 minutes of gentle yoga and sometimes walk the kids to school! I do need to get back to adding in at least a 10 minute HIIT workout as well. I am currently exploring the idea of recreational sex as an alternative for high intensity cardio! Add some of that in, too, and you should be good!

      xoxo
      Shelbee

    • shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com

      Thanks so much, Emma! Oooh, I have been really bad with my sleep schedule the past two weeks and I can feel it in every part of my body! Plus I have fallen off my exercise and diet routine, too. Time to get back on it! Have a wonderful day!

      xoxo
      Shelbee

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