Health Tip: Feel Better by Looking Good

If you're sick, don't ignore your appearance

January 6, 2009 RSS Feed Print

(HealthDay News) -- If you have a long-term illness, improving your appearance can help you feel better, the American Cancer Society says.

The ACS offers the following suggestions for improving the way you look (and feel):

Take time to shave, wash and fix your hair or put on a wig or toupee, and put on makeup. Do this if you're at home, even in bed.
Get new clothes or tailor your old ones to fit better.
If you're able and it's OK with your doctor, treat yourself to a massage, facial, pedicure or manicure.
Try to get as much exercise as you can each day. Even a brisk walk, if approved by your doctor, can do wonders toward making you look and feel better.
Keep brushing and flossing your teeth regularly, and get dental checkups.
Be sure to get enough sleep.