Dame Joan Collins, a celebrated actress who has graced the screen since 1951, continues to captivate audiences with her youthful appearance and vibrant energy. At 91 years old, she defies age stereotypes and remains an active force in the entertainment industry. Her secrets to staying youthful encompass a combination of diet, exercise, skincare, and a positive attitude.
Diet and Nutrition
Collins emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet and mindful eating habits. "The quality of what you eat is important," she says, advocating for a diet rich in beneficial foods. She believes in incorporating avocados, salmon, nuts, and fresh vegetables into her meals, highlighting their positive impact on her complexion. She also takes vitamin supplements, including Vitamin C, E, and Omega oils.
Portion Control
A cornerstone of Collins' diet philosophy is portion control. She firmly believes in moderation, stating, "I don't stuff myself with food. I only eat half of what's on my plate." She also acknowledges that dietary needs change with age, noting, "You need half the food at 50 that you ate at 25. Half as much again at 75."
Indulgences in Moderation
While disciplined, Collins doesn't completely deprive herself of treats. "I don't deprive myself - I eat chocolates, cookies, and nuts," she admits. She enjoys wine, coffee, and the occasional dessert, believing that occasional indulgences are permissible as long as moderation is practiced.
Pre-Event Slimming
For special appearances, Collins employs a short-term strategy to slim down, focusing on protein and fiber. She revealed she eats "boiled eggs and broccoli for three days," and if she must snack, she eats more broccoli.
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Exercise and Physical Activity
Staying active is a crucial component of Collins' youthful lifestyle. She swims regularly and works out with a physiotherapist for half an hour every day. "Half an hour a day is mostly what I do, and I've found it gives me energy," she says.
The Role of a Physiotherapist
Collins highly recommends working out with a physiotherapist, especially for older adults. Her physiotherapist helps relieve tension and improve her range of motion through sports massage and assisted stretches.
Adapting Exercise with Age
Collins acknowledges that her exercise regime has evolved over the years. While she previously engaged in gym work and Pilates, she now recognizes that "as you get older, you cannot put that amount of stress on your body." She has cut down on strenuous exercise, focusing on low-impact activities like swimming.
Maintaining Flexibility
Despite her age, Collins maintains remarkable flexibility, even claiming to "do the splits very easily." A blended training approach, combining low-impact cardio with resistance training, helps maintain sufficient mobility and muscle mass for these kinds of exercises.
Skincare Routine
Collins is "very disciplined" when it comes to her skincare routine. She emphasizes the importance of removing makeup every night and applying night cream. "I don't go to bed without taking off my makeup and putting on night cream. My mother had me and sister Jackie doing that when we were 14."
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Sun Protection
Sun protection has always been a priority for Collins. "I have always worn sun protection and kept my face away from harmful rays since I was 20." She stresses the importance of daily sunscreen use.
Red-Carpet Tricks
Collins relies on a simple trick to reduce puffiness before big events. She soaks cotton pads in a bowl of ice, places them over her eyes, and lies down for a few minutes. This technique, learned from Marilyn Monroe's makeup artist Allan "Whitey" Snyder, refreshes the eyes and reduces under-eye puffiness.
Makeup
Collins prefers to do her own makeup, claiming she can do it "in 10 minutes, faster and better than anyone I know." She believes that good makeup can enhance features and take years off one's appearance. She also never leaves the house without foundation and lipstick. She favors smoky eye makeup and a dusting of silver eye shadow in the middle of her eyelids to provide a visual lift.
Mental and Emotional Well-being
Collins emphasizes the importance of surrounding herself with positive people. "There are two kinds of human beings. There are drains and there are heaters. Some people drain you and some people warm you. If people become too much of a drain, I say, 'That's it. Time to say goodbye.'"
Staying Busy and Engaged
Collins believes that staying busy and engaged is essential for a fulfilling life. "I keep on working because I love being busy," she says. She enjoys touring with her one-woman show and taking on new acting roles.
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Passion and Enthusiasm
Collins approaches each day with passion and enthusiasm. "I try to live each day to the utmost with passion. I want every day to be a mini lifetime in which I achieve something and enjoy something."
Avoiding Plastic Surgery and Injections
Collins is not a fan of plastic surgery or injectables. "Had Botox once, years ago," she said. "Hated it!" Instead, she relies on sunscreen, moisturizers, and facials to maintain her skin's health and appearance.
Sleep Habits
Collins swears by sleeping on her back. "I always, always sleep on my back. I've trained myself to, because I used to sleep on my side, scrunched up into the pillow, and then I was told not to because it gives you 'scrunchy face'."
Lessons Learned
Collins' journey has not been without its challenges. She openly discusses her sister Jackie's death from breast cancer, emphasizing the importance of regular checkups and early detection. She also acknowledges that her excellent health does not run in the family, making her commitment to a healthy lifestyle even more crucial.