I’ll be honest: I have a serious passion for skin and hair care, and I won’t apologize for it. Just the other evening, I was raving to a friend about a rose-infused lotion that visibly tightened my skin. Meanwhile, she seemed completely uninterested, but I couldn’t help but share my excitement.
As we sipped our wine, I carefully painted my nails. “Honestly, listening to you talk about this stuff is exhausting, and watching you do your nails is tiring too,” she remarked. Despite our differences, we have a strong bond.
When I was a little girl, I would sneak into my mom’s stash of Oil of Olay after my baths. I can still recall the scent of that lotion. Standing in front of the mirror, I would apply it to my forehead, cheeks, and chin, adhering to the upward strokes I’d read about in her magazines. It made me feel important and was my first taste of self-care—an achievement and a form of self-love that was rare for me back then.
I don’t indulge in these rituals to fit a certain mold or to impress anyone; I do it because it feels like a gift I give to myself. I’d much rather invest in a rejuvenating facial or a fresh haircut than splurge on a luxury car or an expensive gym membership. These choices bring me joy that material possessions simply can’t match.
Now in my mid-40s, I hold onto these self-care rituals like a child clings to a favorite blanket. I eagerly try every “anti-aging” product and treatment within my budget. Some people have asked why I seem to be clinging to my youth, but that’s not the case. I’m just prioritizing myself and my happiness. It makes me a better parent to my three teenagers, who can attest to the consequences when I haven’t taken enough time for self-care.
Let’s be clear: my body, my rules. I decide how much time and money I invest in myself. My friend, for instance, opts out of under-eye creams and wouldn’t dream of paying to cover her grays. That’s perfectly okay too. The beauty of choice lies in what makes us feel confident. Whether you want to get a neck lift to boost your self-esteem or prefer to embrace every wrinkle, it’s entirely your decision.
We often teach our kids that true beauty comes from within, and I wholeheartedly believe that. Still, our happiness matters too. I feel my best when my hair is freshly styled, and my wrinkles are softened thanks to a little Botox. I enjoy long, relaxing baths and pampering my skin. It revitalizes me after juggling the demands of motherhood and work, not to mention the daily stresses of life.
There have been countless evenings when the thought of treating myself to a facial has been the motivation to get through the day. If there’s something that makes you feel radiant and alive, pursue it. Conversely, if the idea of applying creams or spending an hour at the salon drains you, don’t feel obligated to do it. Remember, your body, your choice.
So, let’s skip the judgment and assumptions that we’re either trying too hard or going through a mid-life crisis. Everyone has their own path. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to indulge in a little skin treatment. I’ve been looking forward to it all day, and it’s the only reason I managed to stay calm after getting a call from my kid’s school about his latest prank in gym class.
For more insights on taking care of yourself, check out one of our other blog posts here. And if you’re interested in pregnancy resources, an informative piece can be found here. Also, for those concerned about health aspects like heart defects, this site could provide valuable information.
In summary, self-care is a personal journey that should be celebrated, not judged. Whether through beauty treatments or simply taking time for oneself, the key is to find what makes you feel confident and happy.