8 personal hygiene tips for a healthier, happier life

Health is the first wealth and personal hygiene does not only affect your body but also your mind.

It has an impact on the way people relate to you on a daily basis because no one wants to be associated with a slob.

Being clean, prim and proper will go a long way and open many doors for you.

Wash your hands regularly

Whenever you interact in public, whenever you touch a filthy surface, or if you have to use the bathroom… wash your hands.

This is the first line of defense against germs.

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap under running water. If you don’t have fresh water nearby, a small bottle of hand sanitiser should always be at arm’s reach.

Brush your teeth twice a day

You won’t realise it until you practice it religiously, but a clean set of teeth and fresh breath will give you a major confidence boost.

Brush your teeth in the morning when you wake, and at night before you go to bed.

Also, it is imperative that you have a bottle of mouthwash in your bathroom.

Change your toothbrush quarterly

Dentists advise that you change your toothbrush about every three months, or sooner if the bristles begin to fray.

And contrary to popular opinion, a very hard toothbrush will do more harm than good as hard-bristled brushes actually damage the gums, root surface, and protective tooth enamel.

Use deodorant

Body odour is a big turn off for many people.

Even if you can’t afford expensive perfumes, investing in a roll-on or spray deodorant will improve your social life.

Shower at least once a day

When you feel fresh, you feel lighter and become happier.

A shower to start your day will wake you up in the right way while another one before bed will improve quality of sleep.

Cut your nails

Keeping long nails may be fashionable for some but the downside is the dirt that accumulates under your nails and the subconscious act of inserting your fingers into your mouth.

Keep your nails trim and try to clean them out regularly.

Don’t repeat clothes without washing

Because it’s not white does not mean it’s not dirty. At the end of the day, throw your outfit in the laundry bag.

Don’t wear your underwear for more than a day

The state of your underwear is a reflection of how serious you take your hygiene.

Endeavour to have a reasonable number of underwears (at least seven) to avoid repetition without washing.