You know those people who are chronic recommenders? The try-this-it-will-change-your-life types? That’s me. I get it from my grandmother, whose solution to every childhood ailment was, “Give her an enema.” She swore by it. Sore throat? Enema. Sniffles. Enema. (Freud would have a field day with me, but that’s a discussion for another time.)
I have my list too, which, not surprisingly, does not feature colon cleansing. I adore dispensing advice on everything from men to picking the right college.
Got a bad stomach? Try ginger tea.
Got warts? Well, too bad for you.
Got financial insolubility? I’ll give you ideas from now until Sunday.
So, without further ado, here the latest on my “This will change your life” list:
1. The Checi Coarse Nickel Foot & Callus File. In the summer, I like walking barefoot. On the grass. Hot sidewalks. Rocks. As a result, I’ve developed hooves instead of heels. I’ve tried pedicures, pomace stones, scrubs and alpha-hydroxy ungents. Nothing comes close to addressing the leathery surface on the bottom of my feet. Finally, a trip to Sally Beauty Supply netted the Checi. Nice Checi. Wonderful Checi. Checi of supernatural callus-removing powers. Use it on dry feet. It will change your life.
2. The right sized bra. We’ve had this discussion. Trust me when I say, it will change your life. And take 10 pounds off your appearance.
3. Burt’s Bee’s Herbal Deodorant. Years ago, I gave up antiperspirants in the belief (real or not) that they contributed to the development of Alzheimer’s Disease. Since then I’ve been on a quest to find an effective natural product. I even tried the crystal, which some people swear by. But rubbing a wet rock under my arms made me feel like an idiot and I still smelled like rotting cabbage. Recently, I saw Burt’s natural deodorant extolled in a magazine article. Nothing involved but alcohol and essential oils, hard to quibble with either. So I gave it a spritz. People, it’s mid-summer and my pits smell pretty! It will change your life.
4. Iyengar yoga. I won’t gas on about this, but I’m forever telling people with minor aches and complaints to find a good Iyengar instructor. I swear, I’m still knitting and writing because of it. It will change your life.
5. Proper skin care. This one is a bit tricky. Though I’ve started selling a skin care line—a decision made in a moment of temporary insanity and career ennui—I believe this is a process or trial and error. Not every line works for every face. If you have sensitive skin like me, it might take some time to find the right stuff. Aim for products packed with antioxidants and natural ingredients. In the meantime, slather on the SPF, wear a hat and drink plenty of water. It will change your life.
I showed you mine. Now, show me yours. What’s on your “It will change your life” list?