Ten Ways to Make Yourself Look Better (despite Fibromyalgia)

Life doesn’t stop because we grapple with fibromyalgia.

Some of us still go to work, have kids to take to school, shopping to do, family gatherings to attend and partners whose sides we accompany on outings. Thankfully many of us don’t wear the illness on our sleeves but sometimes it can really make us look worn out, particularly with the lack of restful sleep. And let’s face it, looking our best and being complimented on it is a necessary self esteem boost when you cope with fms daily. So I’m glad to share with you, my top ten tips for looking better with fibromyalgia (or any illness for that matter). Love you all!

1. Cleanse your face

I have one word for you. Rosewater. This AMAZING natural product is excellent for cleansing and toning the skin as well as tackling many skin issues like acne and redness with its antiseptic properties. Great for use in the morning and night.

2. Moisterise!

This is particularly important if you have dry skin, but even if you don’t, moisterising your skin can take years off. A lack of moister can give way to wrinkles forming so don’t take it forgranted, especially around the eyes. For moisterisers, I like cetaphil but my current fav is the Moisterising Soft Cream from Crème de la Mer.

3. Drink lots of fluids

By fluids, I don’t mean soft drinks and unhealthy beverage. No my naughties! I mean water. There’re loads of benefits to this one including keeping our skin healthy and glowing, and flushing toxins out of the body. I know the bloating that many of us suffer from medication side effects may not encourage you but some orange peel tea might help with that. An old remedy that my family often uses, it’s worth putting some orange peel to dry in a cool corner, they retain their medicinal benefits for ages! Use a small piece of dried peel and bring to boil for a couple minutes and sweeten to taste. You can milk if you like too.

4. Get lots of rest

Even if you’re not sleeping, make sure to get lots of rest. Close your eyes and lie in bed. It doesn’t count if the TV is on or you’re mentally making a shopping list. It has to be rest! Trust me on this one.

5. Treat yourself regularly

No, not to fish and chips! I mean to a warm soak in the tub! Add some Epsom salts in the bath and lie in for at least 30 minutes. The magnesium in the salts will aid with muscle aches and the soak itself will help you unwind and relax. Wash away your wrinkles!

6. Get some exercise

I know it’s not easy but we have to try. I highly recommend Bikram Yoga which I’ve started and with no pains after class. I think this is most ideal for us, but you have to do it in a class to ensure the right setting. Read more about my experience here.

7. Eat healthily

I have a habit of falling into bad eating practises when I’m stressed or depressed. Truth is we should really take extra care with what we put into our bodies, because that’s exactly what we’ll get out of it. Eat lots of fresh fruit and vegetable and use these for cooking as well. That way you know what you’re putting into your food and you may be avoiding alot of the addictives in processed foods that are responsible for flare ups.

8. Smile

It relaxes the facial muscles and we look more youthful when we do. I can’t remember which famous American preacher made the phrase popular but someone said we need to ‘fake it to make it.’ Even when having a bad day, a smile can turn things around and make everything more bearable. It’s also crucial to surround yourself with happiness – happy things and happy people.

9. Roll and tumble in bed

The benefits of sex with your loved one are numerous, including the release of natural endorphins that help with pain, better sleep and increased self esteem.

10. Hair care

For crying out loud, comb it! I know we don’t like to when we’re suffering but it can really show us up. Yes, I know…there are days when I have no energy or I’m in too much pain to bother with my hair but even if you have to ask for a little help, try. Moisterise it, wash it and find a style that’s easy care and little maintenance.

Gentle hugs 🙂