Interview: Betsy Heintz

Staying active, eating right and two massages a week help give massage therapist Betsy Heintz her positive attitude.

NADIA BOROWSKI SCOTT

For Betsy Heintz, happiness and a sense of well-being are the keys to looking and feeling her best.

"I don't think about how old I am. Age is what you make it," says the San Diego massage therapist, who, at 49, still has a fresh-faced glow.

Instead of surgery or cosmetic procedures, Heintz relies on supportive friends, plenty of exercise and an optimistic attitude to help her maintain her youthful appearance.

"I try to be positive in everything I do and eliminate things that make me unhappy,"says the single mother of a college-age daughter. "When you feel good about yourself and your life, you look better, too." Heintz shares some of her not-so-secret secrets to her healthy life.

Skin care

Gets deep moisturizing facials once a month. Uses Jan Marini Bio-Glycolic Facial Cleanser and Face Intervention Moisturizer morning and night (available on the Internet or through aestheticians).

Applies sunscreen daily.

Uses Estee Lauder makeup and some mineral makeups.

Diet

"I pay attention to how foods make me feel," Heintz says. "Some carbs like white rice and potatoes make me feel overly full and uncomfortable, so I stay away from those." Eats lots of lean protein, including chicken, fish and dairy.

Avoids sugary foods.

Has a glass of wine nearly every evening.

Exercise

"I try to constantly stay active," Heintz says. Works out with a fitness trainer twice a week for strength training.

At least three times a week performs cardio exercise including cycling, walking, or an elliptical trainer at the gym.

Hikes. Climbed Mount Whitney last month.

De-stress techniques

Gets at least two massages per week, including one that helps correct posture. Has seen a licensed therapist who "gave me a whole new perspective" on life, she says.

Attends art therapy workshops.

Healthy habits

Gets at least seven hours of sleep at night.

Drinks at least eight glasses of water a day. Spends a lot of time with friends.

Plays with her 4-year-old German shepherd, Summer.

Her advice to anyone who wants to look and feel as good she does
"Get rid or your stress and negativity. It will eat you up," Heintz says. "Do whatever you need to do to be nurtured and take care of yourself."

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