The Allure and Anxieties of Physical Beauty – By Suzy Bliss

Physical beauty wields immense social power and influence. Research shows attractive people are perceived as more sociable, dominant, sexually warm, intelligent, and socially skilled. They tend to have more dates, happier marriages, and higher salaries.

Yet despite the privileges beauty affords, good looks also harbour a dark side. Beauty standards and comparisons can damage self-image and lower self-worth. Constant pressure to look young and flawless breeds anxiety.

Yet despite the privileges beauty affords, good looks also harbour a dark side. Beauty standards and comparisons can damage self-image and lower self-worth. Constant pressure to look young and flawless breeds anxiety.

This hardwired biological instinct helped our ancestors choose healthy mates. But focusing too much on appearances when dating can override compatibility and lead to unstable bonds when beauty fades.

The fleeting nature of looks is especially challenging for women, who face greater appearance pressures. Anti-aging products target female insecurities far more than men's. Women's value is more closely tied to looking young.

The Impermanent Nature of Existence : The transitory nature of our physical appearance reflects the ephemeral essence of life itself.

We naturally try to cling to things that give us pleasure and satisfaction – youth, beauty, health. But change is an undeniable law of the universe. Nothing in this life lasts forever. Our possessions, careers, relationships, even our bodies will eventually decline and disappear.

Contemplating impermanence can be sobering, but it also contains an uplifting message. If nothing lasts, we should appreciate the wonders of each present moment. Life is a continuously evolving process, not a fixed state.

There is beauty to be found at every stage if we open our eyes.  Making peace with change allows us to accept our looks as they are, right now. As we age, our appearance will transform, but we can still radiate joy, wisdom and compassion. Our inner light need never fade.