Feeling beautiful is not just about outward appearances; it’s also about cultivating an inner sense of confidence and self-worth. Here are few ways to feel beautiful every day.
Practice self-care. This involves taking time for yourself to relax and rejuvenate. Whether it’s a long bath, a good book, or a nature walk, doing something that makes you feel peaceful and happy can significantly boost your mood and self-esteem.
Embrace a healthy lifestyle. Eating nutritious foods, staying hydrated, and engaging in regular physical activity can make you feel radiant from the inside out. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters, and maintaining a balanced diet can give your skin a natural glow.
Focus on positive self-talk. The way you speak to yourself matters immensely. Replace negative thoughts with affirmations that highlight your strengths and accomplishments. Remind yourself daily that you are unique and valuable.
Dress in a way that makes you feel good. Wear clothes that make you feel confident and comfortable. Whether it’s a favorite outfit or a new accessory, dressing in a way that reflects your personality can elevate your self-image.
STAND (AND SIT) TALL
“When your posture is erect, the message it gets is: I feel good about myself. ” One study, published last year in the European Journal of Social Psychology, found that subjects who sat up straight in their chairs instead of slouching were more confident about statements they wrote. Keeping your shoulders back and chest open also makes you look taller, slimmer, and radiantly self-assured.
FIND SOMETHING TO ADMIRE—IN YOURSELF
Turn your gaze on the feature you like (we know you have at least one). “When your eyes take in something that pleases you, your brain’s reward system is activated, lifting your whole mood.”
PUT ON A HAPPY FACE
“We all find smiling faces more attractive than nonsmiling ones.” A smile not only lifts the muscles around the eyes and lips, for a more youthful appearance, but also generates a feel-good ripple effect: Your brain gets an instant mood boost from the muscle contractions, and that boost is maintained as people smile back at you.
WEAR COLOR
“Color is life, joy, fun!” says Donatella Versace, a famous designer. Wearing certain colors can actually boost your mood. We’re not talking fuchsia pantsuit. Just a pop of color—say, in a necklace or scarf—can light up your face, and your mood. Not sure what to add to your wardrobe of black and greige? Try blue: “It’s universally considered a ‘happy’ color, and there’s a shade that looks good on everyone.”
CHOOSE YOUR FRIENDS WISELY
Recent research shows that our social networks have a profound effect on our behaviors and attitudes—including how we perceive our appearance. “It’s hard to feel good about your looks if you’re surrounded by people who criticize their own. Spend time around people who are confident in their bodies, and you’ll find yourself following suit. And if you don’t already have a few gay men in your circle of friends, you might want to add some…just saying.
Lastly, surround yourself with positive influences. Spend time with people who uplift and support you, and who see the beauty in you even when you might not see it yourself. Positive relationships can reinforce your sense of worth and remind you of the beauty that lies within.
Incorporating these habits into your daily routine can help you feel beautiful both inside and out. Remember, true beauty comes from confidence, self-love, and the joy of living authentically.
