Grooming is what all living creatures, animals as well as men and women, do as a natural part of living: caring for ourselves and our appearance to look and feel as good as possible. Caring for our appearance and looking our best helps us feel better about ourselves, and it promotes self-esteem under any circumstances. It is especially important when we are ill, because this is when we tend to feel least good about ourselves.

In addition to routine health and hygiene activities, you may want to put extra time and energy into your appearance. Looking attractive will help you feel more confident and in control.

What to Do

• continue to wear make-up and to fix your hair, and continue your routine grooming activities, even if you are confined to bed
• if you will need a wig or toupee, see essay on Hair Loss for advice on this topic
• have clothes altered if you lose or gain weight
• pamper yourself. Have a manicure or pedicure, a facial, a massage, etc.
• use an electric razor for routine shaving to prevent breaks in the skin
• exercise daily, but only as much as you can manage comfortably. Ask your doctor or nurse about an exercise plan, or just take leisurely walks
• get enough rest
• maintain regular dental care

• do not let yourself become discouraged. As you get well, you will feel and look increasingly better.
• do not avoid taking part in activities outside of your home if you are physically able
• do not try to do too much too soon
• do not let your appearance run down. Remember that looking attractive enhances your general feeling of well being.
• do not exercise to the point of exhaustion