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If you only think of using hydrating body care during the dead of winter, you’re doing it wrong—taking care of all of your skin should be a year-round affair since not tending to areas like the chest, hands and neck can lead to signs of premature aging. Now that temps are heating up, you may want to scoop a body oil (you won’t sweat it off the same way you would a body cream) to keep your sun-kissed skin flake-free and protected. 

For an option you’ll look forward to putting on regularly, we’d recommend the nutrient-rich Plum Moisturizing Body Oil from NativaSPA because it brings a surplus of impactful benefits to the skin (and also happens to be on sale for less than $19 right now.) 

NativaSPA

NativaSPA Plum Body Oil

The body oil acts as a shield against radical damage and oxidative stress; ingredients like pure quinoa oil and plum extract surge the skin with antioxidants to keep it plump and smooth. The latter inclusion is known for boosting the skin’s hydration levels and leaving it “intensely moisturized,” and when combined with the brand’s signature quinoa oil (which may bring anti-aging results in as quick as 28 days), offers one powerful blend of oils to the body. Plus, it will leave a lingering scent behind that the brand describes as “fruity notes of plum, peach, followed by hints of bergamot, raspberry and almonds.”

RELATED: This ‘Heavenly’ Body Oil Claims to Improve Skin Firmness Within a Month—& It’s Included in This Sale

The product page may not be brimming with reviews (yet), but the majority of the ones it does have are incredibly positive. One shopper said they always get compliments on “how good they smell” after applying the oil, while another compared it to pricier options. “I used to use Bio Oil but this one is far better,” they wrote. “It has a delicate scent that lingers. It does keep my skin moisturized and smooth and it helps, especially in winter. It does not make my skin oily.”

A third reviewer confirmed how quickly the oil can show results. “The plum scent is delicate and the perfect soothing scent at bedtime. Most importantly, the NativaSPA oils and body lotion have improved the texture and luminosity of my skin after only a few days of use. This is my new go-to for all over skin care.”

Grab it for even less during the brand’s buy more save more Mother’s Day promotion: Buy $59 worth of product and save 15 percent; buy $69 worth of product and save 20 percent.

NativaSpa

NativaSpa Quinoa Firming Body Oil

This body oil targets loss of elasticity that leads to sagging skin within 28 days of use.

NativaSPA

NativaSPA Quinoa Firming Hand Cream

The hand cream contains the brand’s signature 100 percent pure quinoa oil. 

Summer House Season 7 Episode 12 Fashion

This weeks episode of Summer House looks to be jam packed with events. First there is Ciara’s 1 year NYC anniversary party then there is also Carl and Lindsay’s engagement! And I’m sure there is a lot of drama to fill in the spaces and of course a lot more fashion finds to come. So why don’t you go ahead and get down on one knee to the links below and ask a that very special question: do I need this?

The answer is clearly, YES

Sincerely Stylish,

Jess

*Additional Looks Will Be Added

Amanda Batula’s Green Sequin Lace Up Top

Click Here to Shop Her H:ours Top

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Rachel Clark’s White Bow Blazer Dress

Click Here to Shop Her Zara Dress on eBay

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Lindsay Hubbard’s Blue Cutout Chevron Dress

Click Here to See Her Ramy Brook Dress

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Ciara Miller’s Teal Metallic Pants

Click Here to Shop Her 12th Tribe Pants

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Gabby Prescod’s Criss Cross Jeans

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Originally posted at: Summer House Season 7 Episode 12 Fashion

A lovely lady that I coached many years ago once said to me that she didn’t know how to love herself. She went on to say that she was quite critical about herself and barely made time to do the things in life that gave her joy.

I asked her if there were people in her life that she loved and cared about. She said that there were. I invited her to tell me how she showed these people that she loved them.

She replied in an instant, “Oh, that’s easy, I spend time with them. I listen to what they say. I am kind and compassionate when they are hurting or upset. I do lovely things for them to make them smile. I don’t judge them. I support and encourage their dreams and believe in them wholeheartedly.”

I asked her if she did these things for herself, and she shook her head. She said that she didn’t. I wondered what it might be like for her if she simply applied everything she did for the people she loved to herself. She smiled and said that she thought she might feel better about herself. I nodded in agreement.

The key was that she knew exactly how to love herself. It was the very same way that she loved others in her life. The only thing she needed to do was to direct her focus and awareness back towards herself and apply to herself the same things she was doing for others.

It Takes Time to Know How to Truly Love and Care About Who We Are

Early messages in childhood about what we should or shouldn’t do can leave us feeling on the back foot in our own lives. Few of us were ever taught how to value our own intuition and follow a path that made us feel wonderful. Sometimes it can feel challenging to truly love and be kind to ourselves – simply because we are not used to doing it.

When I was growing up, there really wasn’t a concept of having a positive or loving relationship with ourselves. In my own household, the focus was more about doing the “right” thing in accordance with what society – or indeed, the neighbours down the road – might expect.

I remember my own mother being highly anxious about what the neighbours might think of us and this instilled a sense within me of always trying to be “perfect.” Of course, this was an impossible goal. However, for many years my focus was always on needing to make sure that I pleased other people even if it was at a cost to me.

However, our life journeys are there to teach us how to become more of the people we are. Every trial and tribulation bring with them an opportunity for growth and learning, if we can look for the message hidden within the mess.

And so, at sixty-three, I can happily say that I absolutely know how to fall in love with being good to myself and to top it all, this is one of the things that I teach in my books, coaching and workshops.

The Relationship with Yourself Is What You Project into Your Life

We didn’t understand or know back then the impact that loving ourselves can make. We didn’t understand that the relationship with ourselves is fundamental to every other relationship we will have in our life. It also has a direct impact on our health and wellbeing.

There was a sense that loving yourself was a selfish thing to do; however, as we now understand, loving yourself is the most self-caring thing you can do for you and others. When we are in a good place and feel happy in our body, mind and spirit, we are more able to be there for the people we love and care about.

It’s rather like that old saying of putting your own oxygen mask on first in a plane before you help someone else. You have to be okay first before you can help others.

Like every other relationship in our life, the one we have with ourselves is constantly evolving and is a work in progress. If you are too tired or feeling unhappy, then this is what you project outwards as well as inwards. When you are feeling in a good place, this is also communicated to others, the world and most importantly, YOU!

Enjoy My Top 5 Tips on How to Fall in Love with Being Good to Yourself

#1: Find Your Still Point

If we allow it, life will engage us, distract us and occupy us until we realise that we really haven’t been present for the moments of our life that are unfolding.

Being good to yourself means that you take time to come “home” to you so that you are more in touch with what you may need or how you feel.

Finding your still point or quiet inner space may mean that you set aside just a few minutes each day to simply sit with yourself. This means no watching television, listening to the radio or reading. Just “BE” with you.

As you sit, become aware of your breathing. Focus on how your body feels as you simply inhale and exhale. Do this with no judgements – just notice your breath enter and leave your body.

When your mind wanders, just notice where it has gone to and gently return your awareness to your breathing.

Take time to find your still point throughout your day. A great time to do this is in the morning as you begin your day and also at night before you settle down to sleep.

#2: Let Life Be as It Is and Re-Ignite Your Joy

Stop trying to force things to happen. Let go of the need to control and relax into letting go. We may not be able to control certain events or situations in our life. However, we can choose what and where we will put our focus and attention.

Today, make a conscious choice to dwell on what is good in your life. Actively look for what is working for you. Notice the people that make you smile. Choose to read something that inspires you. Focus on how blessed you are.

Delight in the small, sweet moments – the warming cup of tea or coffee, the dew on the morning grass, the daffodils, the birds singing, the food that you love. Reignite your joy every single day by actively creating it!

#3: Turn Worry into Wonder

Worrying does not take away tomorrow’s troubles – it takes away today’s peace. The act of worrying doesn’t do anything to calm our minds or soothe our hearts. It also doesn’t change what may or may not happen. It also raises our stress response which has a direct impact on how we feel, our health and our mental cognition.

The key is to be able to turn the thoughts we worry about into thoughts that we wonder about.

Whenever you catch yourself worrying about something, stop and reframe your worry by choosing to wonder about it. Worrying always has a negative connotation to it as we usually worry about the worst that could happen.

However, wonder has a positive and more uplifting feeling which is full of possibilities. For example, if you are worrying about finances, you might catch yourself saying that you don’t have enough money or that you worried you won’t be able to manage.

Turn this thought into wonder by saying, “I wonder what or who might be able to help me with this? I wonder what I could do to manage this situation better. I wonder if there is anything I have overlooked here. I wonder how I can make this okay.”

Just the act of wondering invites your mind to become more expansive and become better at looking for positive solutions and possibilities. You move out of the stress response and into a solution-based response which helps you to feel calmer and make the decisions you need to make.

#4: Love Your Body

When we don’t take care of ourselves or appreciate our body, we become disconnected from ourselves. Since our body is the place where all of our feelings, experiences, thoughts and creativity is felt and embodied, it is vital that we make the relationship that we have with our body the happiest one that we can.

The relationship we have with our body is the longest one we will ever have. It makes sense to make your body your ally and friend.

Loving your body means that you take time to listen to what your body needs. Choose foods that make you feel energised, healthy and full of vitality. Prioritise your rest and say, “No, thank you” to activities or people that drain your energy.

Choose movement that you love and always speak well of your own body and others. Our body is our home throughout this lifetime. Focus on making your body the happiest and most comfortable place to live.

#5: Live in Gratitude and Appreciation

Gratitude is a game-changer. When we are feeling grateful or in appreciation of something or someone, we communicate to our nervous system that all is well in our world. We cannot be in fear and gratitude at the same time. Just cultivating a feeling of gratitude helps us to focus on what is good and to appreciate what we have rather than be upset about what we don’t have.

Gratitude affirmations are a great way to help you to stay focused on all of the good things in life. Affirmations involve repeating a positive statement several times through the day to help focus the mind. The key is to connect the words with your emotions. Really tap into the feeling behind the words for the greatest impact. Do these at the start of the day to help you begin your day with a positive outlook.

Here Are 7 Top Gratitude Affirmations to Get You Started

1. I am grateful to open my eyes today.

2. I am grateful for another chance to live my life – for a new start.

3. I take a moment to remember all the great and small things done for me.

4. There is so much to be grateful for – whether it’s a door held open, a smile from a stranger or the gift of time and attention from another.

5. I am grateful for any discomfort or pain that has come my way because I know that it will help me to grow, change and become more of the person I truly am.

6. I am grateful for my body and vow to treat it well. To eat well, to nourish myself well, to hydrate my body, to stretch it, move it, relax it and love my body wholeheartedly, because this is where I live – my home.

7. Today is all I have, and I promise to use my time well.

I would love to connect with you. Do join me on Instagram for more ways on loving yourself and being the best we can be at every stage of our lives.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

What are the ways in which you are good to yourself and show yourself that you love and care about you? What gratitude affirmations do you use daily? Do you consider your body your home?

Volunteering can be a life-changing experience that can be both rewarding and humbling. When I made a big life switch several years ago, I promised myself that my new life would involve helping. I didn’t know exactly what that meant at the time, but as I wandered to new lands, I observed all the ways that I could become useful and started to seek out volunteer opportunities actively.

I taught English to children and adults in Ecuador, volunteered at dog shelters and free spay and neuter clinics in Mexico, helped at a food pantry, organized beach clean-ups, and worked with ocean conservation efforts.

Volunteering has taught me a lot of things including how to be more culturally sensitive and mindful. I always knew that I was open-minded, but spending time with people in new-to-me countries opened the doors to more awareness and a real sense that we all want the same basic things in life.

Also, it became apparent that I was raised in a privileged country, and it was a challenging journey navigating that fact responsibly and respectfully. That being said, I quickly realized that my “savior cape” needed to be left at the border when I started volunteering abroad because I had just as much to learn from the people I was helping as they did from me.

How to Find Volunteer Opportunities Abroad

There are several ways to find volunteer opportunities abroad. Every volunteer work that I have done has come about in different ways.

Research Online

The internet is a great resource for finding volunteer opportunities abroad. You can search for organizations or programs that align with your interests and values.

Some popular websites that list international volunteer opportunities include Idealist, Go Overseas, and Volunteer World. These websites offer all-inclusive volunteer opportunities, meaning that everything will be set for you, from your accommodations to your scheduled daily volunteer activities.

Reach Out to Non-Profit Organizations

Reach out to non-profit organizations that work in the field you’re interested in and inquire about volunteer opportunities. You can also check their websites or social media pages to see if they list any international volunteer opportunities.

Network with Other Volunteers

Connect with other volunteers who have volunteered abroad and ask for recommendations on organizations or programs they have worked with. I joined Facebook groups and pages and responded to active call-outs for volunteers in the area I was in and that is how I found out that the local dog shelter needed volunteers with daily tasks.

Remember, make sure to consider factors such as cost, location, and the type of work you’ll be doing before committing to a volunteer opportunity abroad.

Common Volunteer Opportunities for Women Over 50

There are many volunteer opportunities available for women over 50. Here are a few common ways that you can volunteer abroad.

Education

Many organizations around the world focus on education and providing access to skill learning for people who might not have the means to obtain it otherwise. You can volunteer to teach conversational English even if you don’t have a teaching degree.

I took a CELTA certification in Ecuador and went on to volunteer at the local school organized by my CELTA training center.

CELTA-certified teachers in Ecuador.

Healthcare

If you have experience in healthcare, you can volunteer in clinics or hospitals around the world. Opportunities may include providing care to patients, teaching healthcare skills to local healthcare workers, or assisting with healthcare administration.

Conservation

Many organizations focus on conservation efforts around the world, such as protecting wildlife or preserving natural habitats. You can get involved in these efforts by volunteering for conservation projects such as monitoring wildlife, planting trees, or cleaning up natural areas.

A chance encounter with a conservationist opened the door for me to become actively involved in ocean conservation campaigns in Mexico.

Local beach clean-up crew in Mexico.

Volunteering at a Turtle Sanctuary on the west coast of Mexico.

Community Development

Many organizations focus on community development efforts such as building infrastructure, providing access to clean water, or promoting economic development. You can volunteer in these efforts by helping to build homes, working in community gardens, or supporting local businesses.

Disaster Relief

In the wake of a natural disaster, many organizations need volunteers to help with cleanup efforts, provide medical care, or distribute food and supplies.

During the pandemic, I helped with the local food pantry to pack and deliver food and supplies to families that were directly affected by the lack of available work. This opportunity presented itself through a fellow volunteer I met at the ocean conservation events.

Animal Welfare

Are you an animal lover? Many animal shelters rely on volunteers to help with tasks such as feeding, cleaning, socializing, and exercising. Some animal shelters have foster programs that allow volunteers to take in animals temporarily until they find their forever homes. Also, look for organizations that offer free spay and neuter clinics and offer your help.

These are just a few examples of the many volunteer opportunities available for women over 50. It’s important to research and find opportunities that align with your skills and interests.

Volunteer Destinations for Women Over 50

There are many great destinations with volunteer opportunities. Here is a list of some of the most popular destinations for active women over 50.

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a popular destination for eco-tourism and conservation projects. Many volunteer programs focus on environmental protection, wildlife conservation, and sustainable agriculture. Costa Rica is a safe and friendly country that is known for its stunning natural beauty and friendly people.

Consider volunteering with the sea turtle conservation work that is being done in Costa Rica. Help with beach patrolling, nest relocation, the building of hatcheries, and assisting new hatchlings. Visit this website to learn more.

India

India is a diverse and fascinating country that offers a wide range of volunteer opportunities. Women over 50 can get involved in programs that focus on education, healthcare, or community development. India can be challenging for first-time visitors, but many volunteer organizations offer all-inclusive programs and help volunteers adjust to their volunteer roles.

The Volunteer for Women Empowerment opens the door to volunteers who want to help young women in Delhi with English skills and also vocational training.

Peru

Peru is a country with a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. Volunteers over 50 can get involved in projects that focus on education, healthcare, or conservation. Peru is a safe and welcoming country that is known for its friendly people and delicious food.

Visit this Volunteer World program and learn how you can volunteer at an assisted living facility for the elderly or a disabled children’s school.

Tanzania

Tanzania is a country with incredible natural beauty and a diverse wildlife population. You can get involved in volunteer projects that focus on education, healthcare, or wildlife conservation. Tanzania can be a challenging destination for some, but many volunteers find the experience to be rewarding and life-changing.

Check out the Construction and Renovation Volunteer Program to find out how you can help improve the infrastructure of local schools, childcare centers, and important community spaces.

Vietnam

Vietnam is a beautiful country with a rich cultural heritage and friendly people. You can get involved in volunteer programs that focus on education, healthcare, or community development. Vietnam is a safe and friendly country known for its delicious food and stunning landscapes.

The Food Outreach Project is a soup kitchen that helps feed the people of Ho Chi Minh City with affordable meals.

Thailand

Thailand is a popular volunteer destination for women over 50 due to its welcoming culture and friendly people. Volunteers can get involved in programs that focus on education, healthcare, or conservation. Thailand is also known for its delicious food and beautiful beaches.

Volunteer to work on important conservation initiatives and help support conservation projects that help teach local communities about sustainability.

Kenya

Kenya is a great destination for women over 50 who are interested in wildlife conservation or community development. Volunteers can work on projects that focus on animal conservation, education, or healthcare.

Why not give your pair of helping hands to the local orphans in Nairobi?

Guatemala

Guatemala is a beautiful country with a rich history and vibrant culture. You can get involved in programs that focus on education, healthcare, animal welfare, or community development. Guatemala is a country that is known for its beautiful landscapes and colorful markets.

The Animal Care Volunteer Project in Antigua is an excellent opportunity to help out with local domesticated animals.

Ecuador

Ecuador is another great destination for women over 50 who are interested in conservation, community development, or education. Volunteers can work on projects that focus on environmental protection, healthcare, or education.

Participate in Beach Clean-up and Permaculture on the Ecuadorian Coast.

Remember to research volunteer organizations and programs carefully to find the best fit for you. Prices vary depending on what is included. I have linked several structured volunteer opportunities abroad that I found interesting for women over 50 but do not have first-hand experience with any of them.

You can also plan and organize your own transportation and accommodations and volunteer at your own pace when you arrive in a new country.

How to Prepare for Volunteering Abroad

Preparing for volunteering abroad can be an exciting and unnerving experience. Here are some steps to help you prepare for your trip.

Research the Country and Culture

Before you go, it’s important to research the country and culture you’ll be visiting. This can include learning about the language, customs, and etiquette of the country you’ll be volunteering in. Understanding the culture can help you better communicate with locals and avoid any cultural misunderstandings.

Also, the term “third-world countries” has historically been used to refer to countries that are less developed or economically disadvantaged, but it can be seen as derogatory or outdated. Try using something like developing countries instead. Using respectful and inclusive language can help us avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes or biases.

Get Necessary Vaccinations and Medical Supplies

Depending on where you’re volunteering, you may need to get certain vaccinations or medical supplies. Consult with your doctor or a travel clinic to determine which vaccinations you’ll need and make sure to pack any necessary medications and first-aid supplies.

Apply for Necessary Travel Documents

Make sure you have a valid passport and any necessary visas or travel documents before you leave. Depending on the country, the visa application process can take several weeks or months, so it’s important to plan ahead.

Get Travel Insurance

Most volunteer organizations will require that you have travel insurance in order to participate in the programs. Travel insurance companies like World Nomads offer insurance plans that specifically cater to volunteers, with coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellations, and emergency evacuation.

Connect with Other Volunteers and Organizations

Connecting with other volunteers or organizations can help you get a better understanding of the volunteer work you’ll be doing and the conditions you’ll be living in. Social media groups and online forums can be great resources for connecting with other volunteers.

Learn Basic Phrases in the Local Language

Learning some basic phrases in the local language can help you communicate with locals and show that you respect their culture. Consider learning phrases like “hello,” “thank you,” and “how are you?”

I used Duolingo to learn some basic Spanish and found it very helpful to feel comfortable upon arriving in South America for the first time.

Be Prepared for Cultural Differences

Volunteering abroad can be a challenging experience, and it’s important to be prepared for cultural differences and any challenges that may arise. Keep an open mind and be flexible in adapting to new situations. You are not there to change the local culture even if some things don’t align with your values.

I always try to carve out time for volunteering and my heart always feels full every time I do. Sometimes it’s an hour picking up trash on the beach and other times it’s several consecutive days helping at animal clinics; every little bit counts. Volunteering abroad is certainly a rewarding experience that can broaden your horizons and help you make a positive impact in the world.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Have you ever volunteered abroad? Do you have plans to volunteer in another country? What skills do you have and would like to share? Tell us about it in the comments below.

I have never hidden the fact that I am happily married. My husband and I very much enjoy each other’s company. We talk a lot and laugh a lot. And each is the go-to person when either of us want to discuss some problem – large or small.

In this, we are extraordinarily lucky. I never forget this fact. Especially as we married much too young almost 60 years ago.

BUT even so, even so, we do sometimes want to have time on our own. Preferably in our own home. Time when the house is completely empty except for one person – me (or in his case – him).

Time on Your Own

This is not a new wish – indeed, I have recognised it for years. And when I admitted the fact to said husband, he admitted he felt the same.

There is nothing shameful about wanting a period of time away from a spouse, but it is not often discussed out loud.

I suspect we are not unique. Many married couples, however much they like to be together, do want time apart. And for those who are less happily married, the need must be even more pressing.

Not to mention those living with additional people in their house, such as adult children or elderly parents.

Yet the older we get, the more difficult it is to achieve such alone time. There is no longer the regularity of trips to work or other events.

Moreover, growing health problems of one or both may preclude regular activities or meetings with friends outside the home.

The Freedom of Being on Your Own

There is something very different about time on your own, compared to time with other people. It can be frightening for people who are not used to it. Alternatively, it can be very liberating for people who rarely get it.

But whatever our response, it feels very different.

When we live with someone, they tend to have certain wishes about the regularity of mealtimes and, indeed, sleeping time. They may want the radio or television on all day. Or not.

They may like to potter around the house or garden, making their presence felt. Or they may ask our help from time to time. Indeed, they may want to talk to us about what they are reading or just their thoughts in general.

None of these habits require obedience, but normal good relations within a household tend to mean that tacit agreements are developed on such day-to-day issues.

But when we are on our own, we are suddenly free. Every decision is taken at our own pace – when to get up, when to eat, when to go out, when to go to bed. Not only that, the lack of anyone else to make these decisions forces us to do so.

For example, we don’t have to eat healthily (if the other person tends to). We can do whatever we want. We can make a nice meal for ourselves, or we can pig out on ice cream in front of the television.

We can get up exactly when we want and go to bed when we want. Perhaps stay up late at night. Many couples come to a compromise on these issues, which may not be exactly right for either.

Moreover, we aren’t distracted by requests for help or even enthusiasms that whoever is around wants to share. No one tells us anything.

(As I write, my husband is trying to tell me about a newspaper article he has found interesting and wants to share with me.)

We have to find our own thoughts. We have to think what we want to do. It is a time when we are somehow free and therefore grow.

How to Find Time on Your Own

How to gain some time to oneself depends on the habits of the person you live with. If he or she goes to work or has some other regular daily plans, you may have the house to yourself all day.

But once we are retired, that tends to be a rare situation. Perhaps the person (or people) you live with have interests that take them away for part of each day or even some days.

I would say ‘grab it’, don’t make your own plans for this time, but enjoy the time on your own at home.

Longer periods are even better. They give you time to settle into the time on your own. When my husband used to travel for work, the first hour would feel very empty. Then, I would realise how nice it was, relax and enjoy the ‘me’ time.

Some couples take separate holidays, and this is one solution. Certainly, the occasional weekend away on your own (or their own) to visit relatives – or simply to pursue a particular passion – provides a reasonable period for couples to enjoy time on their own.

Indeed, some couples take this even further and live under an arrangement that tends to be called ‘together apart’. This means keeping two separate establishments but meeting up whenever they wish. I know a few older couples who choose this solution.

It would not suit me, but I can understand why they do it.

Everyone must find their own way.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

If you live with someone else, do you miss time on your own? Why is it important to you? Have you found ways to achieve it?