We all need fulfilling personal relationships. They are essential to our humanity. Researchers have found that good, healthy relationships are even associated with better mental and physical health. With a romantic partner, taking the time to spend together in a meaningful way is just as important. The preparation, and details involved, can even create more anticipation of a fun evening to come.
Remember that true beauty from the inside out isn’t just for one night. It typically involves sustained, healthy habits over time.
Here are 9 tips to help you prepare for a special night with someone you love:
- Exfoliate and moisturize. Yes, we’ve all heard it before. But one thing you may not have tried is dry brushing, a simple technique of brushing the skin with a firm-bristled brush before a shower. Among other benefits, it helps turn over dry skin and increase circulation.
- Use a good skincare regimen. There are plenty of myths floating around about good skincare. Having a good regimen over time will make any night a great night out. For beautiful skin, experts say avoid or limit these five foods: sugar, foods with high glycemic index, salt, dairy and saturated fats. Maybe on date night, you make an exception, but an overall trend of avoidance is good for your skin and overall health.
- Consider shaving over waxing. Our experts weighed the pros and cons of shaving versus waxing. They decided shaving was just a hair better, as they compared ease of use, affect on skin and other criteria. Here’s why.
- Treat your hair like a cashmere sweater. Take good care of your hair, especially in the winter when it’s cold outside and dry inside. Consider a wide-tooth brush with smooth-coated prongs that are spaced wide apart. Wash less frequently. Don’t skim on protein. Find more hair tips here and here.
- Plan ahead for a pedicure. If you plan on getting your toes painted professionally, podiatrists say to watch and make sure they use clean utensils and bowls and disinfect their bowls after each use.
- Use common sense if you wear shapewear. Make sure you are getting the right size. Ultra-tight shapewear could compress nerves – particularly if you are thin – resulting in tingling sensations or numbness.
- Limit time in high heels. For a special occasion, high heels might be just the thing but kick them off whenever you can. Pointy stilettos are hardest on your feet, while wedge heels give better support. Get more shoe advice.
- Plan for dinner. Maybe you go to a new restaurant or a place special to you both because of a shared memory. If you are celebrating Valentine’s Day and want to make dinner at home, you can even incorporate the color red in the meal. And on a special night, let’s not forget dessert. There are some less fattening, lower-sugar options to consider.
- Be intimate – or not. No, it’s not all about the finale, and spending an evening together talking over a meal can be satisfying enough. But sex enhances our relationships. It offers a feeling of intimacy and trust and is good for you if done safely and responsibly. Plus, it’s fun.
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