BEAUTYHollywood actor Eva Mendes, who sparked controversy after a ban on a Calvin Klein perfume's steamy commercial, believes letting blood rush to her head will deter signs of ageing. Shikha Shah talks to sexy desi women who betray their age, to bring you an insider's guide
There's very little that separates Hollywood sex bomb Eva Mendes from the urban Indian homemaker who trudges grudgingly to the gym three mornings of the week. They both want to look hot and youthful for longer, and wish grey gym workouts were banned.
Thirty four year-old Eva hangs her head down, on a slant board for about 20 minutes, allowing blood to flow to her upper body, which she says works wonders before a photo session or hot date.
She works out once a week, doing light weights, but on the whole detests listening to monotonous techno music on a treadmill. Hanging like a bat, is so much simpler! You don't have to try anything as crazy, though. Pick up a leaf from this secret guide to staying sexy.
Nayanika Chatterjee Singh, Model and Grooming Consultant Age disclosed: Undisclosed
Hot tip: Take care of your skin
I say:
Weather affects our skin. In Mumbai, I was plagued by pigmentation and constant sweating. Delhi's water has proven terrible for my hair. So, it's important to protect your body from external attacks.
Try and be happy. My little daughter brings me joy I can't quite express. It's great to see her grow up.
I do:
I never deprive myself of pizzas and chocolates, but I eat small portions. Anything in excess will prove harmful.
I don't work out like a maniac either. I prefer going for a morning walk. Maintain regularity in your exercise schedule.
Raseel Gujral, Interior designer Age disclosed: 43
Hot tip: Don't try hard to look young
I say:
It depends on your genetic build up. Some women age better; like my mother. She has never tried to look young, but her face is always glowing.
Be comfortable with your age, and what you have. Very few people are content with who they are. Greed leads stress. You can't be happy if you are stressed, and you can't look beautiful if you are grumpy.
Nalina Talwalkar, Runs Talwalkar Dance StudioAge disclosed: 40
Hot tip: Don't stop loving
I say:
If you are young at heart, it shows on your face. You need to find a true love; it doesn't have to be a man. It can be a job, a career, a calling. That's what keeps you happy, and happiness makes you look young.
A satisfying physical relationship, and I don't just mean sex, it can even be a hug or a kiss, leaves you happy from within. Everyone says my husband and I look like we have just got married. Don't let the chemistry fade.
I do:
I don't follow a diet. In fact, I'm crazy about cheese. I just can't resist it. What's essential is the right kind of workout, and to get enough sleep.
Alison Kanuga, Fashion show director Age disclosed: Late thirties
Hot tip: Stay clear of addictions
I say:
I'd suggest you stay away from excessive drinking and smoking, because it not only affects your heath, it ages you faster than you think. dark circles and lips are common among those who smoke.
You skin reveals your age. I've been using the anti-ageing range from Estee Lauder for the last few years, and it's been effective in lending a glow to my face.
I do:
I'm not a regular at the gym, but I make it a point to indulge in some sort of exercise, three times a week.
I sleep well; it works wonders to look fresh and young.
Marie Lou Philip, Head PR, Chanel, Age disclosed: Early Forties
Hot tip: Go swimming
I say:
I am regular swimmer, and I'd say that's my secret to looking young even after crossing 40. Swimming helps you stay fit, energises and refreshes you.
I do:
I have a hectic professional schedule and that cuts down on swimming sessions to four times a week.
Kalyani Chawla, Vice President, marketing and communications, Christian Dior (India)
Age disclosed: 40
Hot tip: Set priorities straight
I say:
Age is mind over matter. Being content with who you are, allows you to live a fruitful life. Happiness reflects as youth on your face. I'd suggest you take preventive measures after you cross 30. I avoid eating junk food now, as I used to eat when I was in college.
I do:
Make an effort to create a satisfying personal and professional life. I spend some time with my daughter, once I'm home from work. Putting on your make-up and rushing for parties, isn't what life is really about. If you feel cheerful, you'll look good.
6 experts tell you how to beat ageing
Ayurveda expert
Dr Smita Naram
You need to consume fruits and vegetables in adequate quantity, so that your body is nourished from within.
An everyday juice for men and women who've crossed 35:
Mix carrot juice ½ glass, with ½ glass of pumpkin juice, and juice extracted from 2 amlas. Drink this twice a day to feel fresh. It also helps fight menopause-related problems.
Quick-home remedy to tighten your skin:
1 crushed banana
½ tsp soaked sesame seeds
Quarter tsp pure ghee
Pinch of turmeric
1 tsp almond milk
Make a smooth paste from all of the above and massage into your skin, using outward and upward movements, for 20 to 30 minutes.
Skin specialist
Dr Jamuna Pai
Your skin reveals your age.
Remember: You need to regularise your lifestyle if you wish to look younger than you are. Exfoliate your skin by applying scrubs and creams depending on your skin type; they prevent your skin from turning pale. Ask your doctor to prescribe multi-vitamins, in addition to having nutritious food.
Nutritionist
Dr Anjali Mukerjee
Avoid reserved and packed foods. The antioxidants present in packed foods, douse the free radicals leading to imbalances in your body.
Eat deep-coloured fruits like Strawberries, Jamuns and Pomegranates, since the bio-flavanoids they contain are good for your body. Dry fruits, dal, egg and fish are rich in protein, and help in tissue repair.
Health guru
Mickey Mehta
You never grow old. When you stop growing, you become old. It's essential to renew yourself with time, through exercise and nutrition. Relaxation exercises help you to rejuvenate after a tough day at work. Spending time amidst nature makes you feel fresh. You can't look young without a positive attitude.
Beauty consultant
Shahnaz Hussain
You must indulge in daily cleansing and sun-protection. Cleansing at night helps remove pollutants that have deposited on your skin through the day. Keep it well moisturised, especially if you are exposed to constant air-conditioning or heat.
Puffy eyes: Apply a compress of iced water or cold milk directly over closed lids, leave for 15 to 20 minutes.
Yoga expert
Shameem Akhtar
Yoga is recognised as an anti-ageing practice. But regularity, intensity and depth of practice is what makes it effective.
Try this asana: Ujjayi Pranayama
Sit in a meditative pose. Shut eyes, hands in any mudra (ideally tips of index fingers and thumb in each hand should touch). Inhale gently, from the throat. This is one round. Do nine rounds. After regular practice, you may inhale deep and long, and exhale to double the length of your inhalation.
Benefits: The soft pressure at the throat works the parasympathetic nerve. This impacts the entire body, entering it into a rejuvenating, repair mode.
