Coco Chanel: 'Nature gives you the face you have at twenty; it is up to you to merit the face you have at fifty.'

Nature gives you the face you have at twenty; it is up to you to merit the face you have at fifty.

In Coco Chanel's famous quote, "Nature gives you the face you have at twenty; it is up to you to merit the face you have at fifty," she encapsulates the idea that our actions and choices, rather than mere genetics, play a significant role in shaping our appearance as we age. It is a straightforward reminder that taking care of ourselves physically, mentally, and emotionally is essential if we want to maintain a youthful and vibrant appearance throughout our lives.However, when exploring this quote from a deeper perspective, an unexpectedly philosophical concept emerges. The idea that our external appearance reflects our inner selves and the life we have led can be compared to the Japanese philosophy of "mono no aware." Mono no aware is the bittersweet appreciation or acceptance of the transient nature of beauty and the inevitable passing of time. It suggests that beauty is not fixed but ever-changing, and by acknowledging this impermanence, we can savor and cherish the present moment.When we think of nature giving us a face at twenty, we may initially interpret it as a mere physical attribute. However, embracing the philosophy of mono no aware opens our eyes to the notion that our face is a reflection of our experiences, emotions, and choices throughout life. It becomes a canvas upon which our joys, sorrows, and triumphs are etched.Just as a carefully-tended garden blooms with vibrant flowers, our face at fifty becomes a testament to how we have nurtured ourselves over the years. It reflects the laughter lines that come from finding joy in the simplest of moments, the wisdom etched in our eyes from lessons learned, and the subtle radiance that emanates from a life well-lived.But how can we merit the face we have at fifty? What choices do we need to make to ensure that our external appearance mirrors the beauty within us? By embracing a holistic approach to self-care, we can cultivate a youthful glow that surpasses the constraints of age.Physically, we can engage in regular exercise, nourish our bodies with wholesome foods, and practice good skincare routines. By respecting and taking care of our bodies, we can slow down the visible signs of aging and promote a healthier, more radiant complexion.Mentally and emotionally, we can strive to find balance and cultivate a positive mindset. Practicing mindfulness, engaging in activities we love, and surrounding ourselves with uplifting people can contribute to our overall well-being. When we prioritize our mental and emotional health, we bring an inner radiance to our faces that no cosmetic can replicate.Moreover, to merit the face we have at fifty, we must embrace the concept of self-love. By truly loving and accepting ourselves, flaws and all, we allow our inner beauty to shine through. This self-acceptance is a powerful force that transcends age, and it is not defined by societal norms or beauty standards but by how well we embrace our uniqueness.In this journey to merit our faces at fifty, it is vital to remember that beauty should never be constrained by age. Instead, it should be celebrated as a testament to a life lived fully and authentically. We are not defined by wrinkles or gray hair but by the kindness in our hearts, the joy that lights up our eyes, and the wisdom that graces our smile.Coco Chanel's quote serves as a poignant reminder that the face we have at fifty is a reflection of the life we have led. By adopting the philosophical concept of mono no aware and embracing a holistic approach to self-care, we can merit our faces at fifty and beyond. Let us value the beauty in impermanence and honor the legacy we leave behind through the canvas of our faces.