Can you help bring this mum into the 21st century? Apply withiin.......

[Medulla]

I just want ot feel good about myself again. I am happy but I am also very aware I have "let myself go" a bit. I am slightly overweight after having my babies, doesn't help by not having the best diet in the world (don't eat 5 portions for example), don't do much exercise, my skin is ok as in no spots but I do have open pores and it could look a bit brighter.

So I know I have to increase my exercise and eat better but I want ot do other things too. What skin products do you use? Do you have facials? Are they worth it? How do you treat yourself and keep yourself looking good. TIA

Exfoliation is great for brightening skin up - I use Origins Have A Nice Day or the new one that I've forgotten the name of. They are great for giving samples out so you could get a couple of samples and have a play.

There are some gorgeous clothes around that would flatter slightly curvier figures at the mo - I really like Principles for floaty long-line tops to be worn over jeans or wide-leg trousers. M & S are surprisingly good lately as well.

Decleor do gorgeous face oils that will make you feel as if you've been pampered but take only seconds to massage in - again they're good for samples.

I also think that a new blusher can help me to feel a bit more "polished" and as if I've made an effort.

best thing i learned recently was proper application of blusher. Use a nice foundation - plenty of high street brands are fine if you are willing to pay £10-15. then a subtle powder blushed applied with big brush to apples of your cheeks. I smile into the mirror and put the blusher on the bits of my cheeks that stick out the most (I look like a wanker while I'm doing it but everyone always says how healthy and well I look afterwards!)

Water is my best tip for good skin! Drink loads!

re: food. one trick is to keep loads of fruit and veg and healthy stuff and none of the bad.

this way when you're hungry or pekish or you just want to snack out of boredom you are forced to have something that it's not bad for you.
I must say you might disappointed to seat down with a carrot and some humous but when you've had it and you feel fool without the guilt it's great.

also this way, when you do have something more caloric you won't feel that bad as it's a treat rather than the norm.

and yes lots of water.

Re: beaty routine, no idea! I am not modern at all in that sense. sorry.

I have found a simple product which makes your skin look instantly brighter and shinier - Boots Time Delay Instant Radiance (I think that is the name). It's just a pearly cream and you smooth on a couple of drops. Touche Eclat is good for more serious eye circles etc but both of these are purely cosmetic and won't actually improve the quality of your skin.

Some of us are trying to improve our general health on the 10/10 thread by eating lots of fruit and vegetables, and exercising more. Join us if you feel like some support would encourage you.

Thanks everyone, will try and find your recommendations Franny when I get back to the UK next week. Yes I would love to join the 10/10 club, what does it stand for? (before I make a total fool of myself on there)

It just means that we try to eat 10 portions of fruit and veg, and do 10 minutes of exercise each day. It is very friendly and usually very relaxed on there, no need to be scared!

10!! Wow I don't even reach 5 - maybe I really need to go on this thread

I've had my hair cut and I'm going to get my eyebrows done (couldn't bear to do them myself). I need to make time for myself in the evenings - can't remember the last time I had a good soak and a read!! I thikn it will make me feel a lot more confident. I used to be so confident, how can motherhood knock you so much?

It is easier than you think to eat 10, Medulla

I think having an interest / hobby you pursue outside the home can give you confidence and bring energy into your life. I know it's a bit of a cliche but it really works.

well i spose you've had all your life previously looking after yourself (physically/emotionally) and tending to mostly your own needs - when you become a parent (esp a mum) you've had to give your body over to a baby and then you give more emotionally than you've ever given before. It's exhausting in every sense and so it's no wonder the you that you known and loved all your life takes a back seat!

a good soak and some me time is a great start. as is a good haircut.

I have joined your sect Franny

Brilliant, I will be rewarded with extra virgins for my good work for the cult today