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Why do we worry so much about the way we look and expend so much energy on so much outward superficiality? Many of us spend so much time preening, prepping, smoothing and dressing ourselves from head to toe every day - but isn't it supposed to be about what is inside a person rather than outside appearance?

In short, yes. The soul of a person is their true essence, and it is far more valuable and much more telling than an outer shell. Physical appearance should not be as the main focus, but the shells in which we live are an extension of inner selves. These bodies we have been blessed with allow us to communicate not only inner and outer beauty, but our health as well.

External appearance is part of our culture and human experience. In this world we interact on the physical level through our senses of sight, smell, taste and sound. Our bodies are designed to capitalize on those senses and transmit important information to others about our health and well being. A lot of information can be transmitted through skin, hair, nails and even our voices. A trained eye (or ear) can pick up on any number of possible disorders or conditions by simply examining the external body. For instance, small cracks in the skin can indicate heart disease, fatty deposits around the eyes can be a marker of high cholesterol and rapid hair loss can be a signal of stress, illness or abnormal growths. Our physical bodies are forever communicating with us to let us know whether we are operating in peak condition. We might try to mask it with make-up, wigs or clothes, but those signs are there for us to read and take appropriate action wherever necessary.

The condition of our bodies can tell a story about the health within the body, and how we maintain those bodies often tells a story about the health of the soul. Positive self esteem shines through in every aspect of our appearance. When we love ourselves, we take pride in the bodies we have been given. We are grateful for them and take care of them by eating right, exercising and dressing them nicely. By the same token, when we feel good about how we look and feel comfortable in our skin we exude greater confidence, joy and happiness.

That's why we spend so much time choosing an outfit, slathering on creams and spraying on scents. We want to look good, and we want to feel good. No matter how we look at it, it's a two-way street. When we look good, we feel good. When we feel good, we look good. The two go hand-in-hand.

Now, if you'll excuse me - I have to go pick out what I'm wearing tomorrow...