It is in your hands to create a better world for all who live in it – Nelson Mandela

“Our hands tell who we are. They are believed to be perfect subjects of the mind. As physical labor shows in the callouses on our palms, so does gentleness or greediness or strength. Nothing else expresses human behavior in so many ways. With our hands, we work, play, love, threaten, show joy or grief. Sensitive symbols of faith and friendship, our hands draw to us everything and everyone we love. Marvelously made and directed by the mind’s eye, the mind’s ear, and the heart’s desire, our hands continually express our lives. An abusive hand is from an abusive mind. But the gentle touch does exist – even for those who have yet to experience it. What words cannot say, the hands can express with all tenderness and love.

Now we shake hands and make peace…” – Marcia Bernstein

Your hands often make a first impression when you meet somebody. They are a reflection of the person. Well cared hands are a sign of a healthy person or of somebody who is stressed and does not care much about her/himself. It is not easy for your hands to look strong, sensitive, healthy and young. They are exposed to all sorts of germs, to grease and dirt, to harsh chemicals and sunlight. They have to work hard and suffer from small injuries, they get irritated, dry out and start cracking.
Soap works very well to disinfect your hands from bacteria and also viruses. It does not have to be a very harsh cleaner, a regular handwash with a mild soap works very well. Since you deplete the hands of their own oil, you have to moisturize them regularly and treat the little wounds and infections.