The Elysian is a luxury-modern boutique in the heart of Houston. Every inch of our is carefully created  and decorated with the intent of providing the deepest relaxation and the highest possible aesthetic satisfaction.

Considering nail stickers are starting to seem like a natural extension of signature nail art, it may seem like a missed opportunity to see how manicures could positively impact on the way we feel about ourselves.

But the truth is manicures can have a huge range of benefits, both mentally and physically. And as the old-world technology behind them continues to evolve, we’ve enlisted the expert tips of three experts for helping you experience true self-confidence.

1. Deep thoughts are rarely the most productive.

“Nails provide a blank canvas,” says Jamison Doody, manicurist at Auckland nail salon Acute. “Or you could even use their texture to create a visual distraction that is totally self-assured – a piece of jewellery for your mind.”

From now on we think a deeper look at our chosen nails is a great look for the confidence of being confident. Get busy carving the shape of the design by circling in a zig zag, then taking a cross tool – the thickest nail polish technique is simply scratching your bottom with the roller across the nails (both to remove any applyr material and to take down any flakes of polish) and starting from the middle. Use your friend, family or even snoozing at night to help you do the rest.

2. Avoiding self-deprecation breeds in better confidence.

“Being able to navigate negative thoughts such as: I cannot do it, I am a failure, I am not worth it, or the like, makes us feel good – even if we can’t or won’t mit it to ourselves,” says Ryan Hunter, PhD, a London-based psychotherapist.

This issue of self-deprecation is something Manicurist Helen Konwinski, consultant at Myrtle Beach Nails explains. “If people start to wear their own insecurities on their nails, they are less likely to think negatively of themselves, it has been the case at my office and for myself,” she says. “It also means that people don’t have to self-tan to cover up their self-doubt!”

3. Look at the big picture.

“Being able to view our nails as a complete system to ‘make’ our personality rather than looking at them purely from a surface that may not reflect our true self-esteem is a big boost for us,” says Victoria Fuller, of South London nail bar The Pelham Group.

This position will calm the nerves of nervous people, keep the focus on the information that really matters, and help us see the big picture.

(Photo by Fabio Micheletti/Getty Images)

4. Masking the effects of everyday stress is great for self-esteem.

“Practising the ‘my nails, don’t care’ philosophy helps remind ourselves that our nails don’t fall apart because we don’t notice them, and we certainly don’t notice our nail polish fe,” explains Helen Konwinski. “We are far more able to exercise our positive sides when we can bring some interest to our manicure and therefore, treat our nails as art.”

Remember your nails need to be kept clean, so try to paint lighter base colours to suit your natural colouring.

5. It’s a matter of visualising.

“To look your best, using a nail polish underneath the ‘do’ (remake) can be a turn-off. But try to project a vibe of positive self-image by applying it to your nails on you as opposed to the idea of your ordinary, everyday ‘do’, and it will make youfeel even more polished and beautiful,” suggestsAlex Robinson, co-founder of Australasia’s first manicure company, Nespresso Nails.

Get your nails professionally done – if you’re comfortable – using an almost any coloured colour from their rey-to-wear collection as your base and topping up with a d-on metallic or pearl polish.

See more nail art at Acute in Auckland and the Acute in London.

Earrings.co.uk sent us these super-feminine ‘New York Stars’ lace (red) and ‘Fancy Villian’ wooden nails. See more of their New York sparkle nails at Glamour, Apparels and the Eva Awards.

d a classic white top coat for a glam finish. For a fun pink colour, d the brand’s Love For Ever Sweet Peony pencil to your finger nails and you’ve got a stylish, sophistication manicure that will inspire you and make you stand out.

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Tap on your hands for a graphic version of Bizarre’s latest lacquer line.

Enchant you with a vibrant red colour and the designs at Kika Garden.

Give a pop of colour to your nail nails with a different palette. If you like to mix things up, Essie nail art is another fabulous option. If you want to feel bold and funky, MaxMara acrylics are another funoption.

At the Hard Candy Store.

If you are a beauty maven, you’ll want to love Essie’s range of Velvet and Nude colors. They’ve recently launched a whole range of new colour names to d to their popular line.

Easy and pretty nails with a little edge with Jin Soon’s ivory and grey gold hues. Essie have a fantastic range and Essie nail paint in colourist colour.

Also try the nail art at Pearl Nails.

Going to the Grammys? Then this the perfect nail art for you!

How we can work up an appetite without starving ourselves. You’ll need a shiny manicure, specially painted nail design (or a self portrait painting) to make a splash on the party scene or brunch spot!

We really love new and unique manicures at Mister Softee. They’ll even do water-based acetone color to keep your manicure looking new. The Sandals Valentine’s special on there will fit your budget.

Hand makes a statement with Manicure ‘s Ombre Collection at nail specialist Clampdown Salon. Use the your first pick from the featured nail art or portraits to pair with your choice of nail polish and sheers.

Lastly, how about chaining these massive pea coats together to create an entire manicure?Pea coats? I love anything Pea.

Then why not try those greatnew nail art designs at polish specialist Rebel Nails. They havea range of special Valentine’s Day collections, so decide what Valentineyou want to look like and Rebel will sew up yourlook.

Click here to see what we think of Essie’s range.

What doyou think of Essie? Have you tried any of their new hues? Tweet us @CosmopolitanUK

Follow Sophia on Twitter: @sophiatautia

Re the Cosmo Fashion Blog: @cosmofashion

AND check out our Autumn/Winter 2013 collection

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The Elysian is a Modern Nail Salon in the Heart of Houston focusing on High Quality Service. Every inch of our is carefully created and decorated with the intent of providing the deepest relaxation and the highest possible aesthetic satisfaction.

Book Your Appointment Online Today!