Ageing gracefully is an art, and while we can't turn back the clock, we can certainly influence how we age. The quest for youthful skin often leads us to expensive creams and invasive treatments, but what if the secret to a smoother, more vibrant complexion was already within us? Yoga, an ancient practice known for its holistic benefits, offers a natural solution to combat the signs of ageing. By incorporating specific yoga poses into your routine, you can target wrinkles, firm up sagging jawlines, and rejuvenate your skin from the inside out. Let's explore how yoga can become your ultimate anti-aging ally, helping you glow with health and vitality at any age.
To understand this OnlyMyHealth interacted with Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, Author, Columnist, Founder, Akshar Yoga Kendraa, Yoga and Spiritual Leader, Bengaluru.
The desire to retain youthful, healthy, and beautiful looks is universal. Yet, the impacts of stress, an unhealthy lifestyle, and environmental factors like pollution have led to premature ageing becoming more prevalent. “Ageing affects not only your external appearance but also the well-being of your organs. If you seek a solution to maintain fitness and vitality well into your 30s and 40s, look no further than yoga,” Akshar said.
Benefits of Yoga
• Enhances physical well-being and health.
• Addresses critical disorders.
• Strengthens and invigorates the mind.
• Nourishes the soul.
• Naturally heals the mind and body.
• Improves blood circulation, lending a radiant skin glow.
• Reduces stress levels.
• Promotes organ health.
Also read: Benefits of Bhujangasana and Setu Bandhasana for Spinal Flexibility And Strength
Yoga Asanas for Youthful Skin
Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward Dog)
A versatile pose suitable for all levels, Downward Dog increases blood flow to the face and head. According to Akshar, it contributes to healing skin issues like pimples, freckles, and wrinkles. Regular practice promotes facial radiance and supports hair health.
Vajrasana – Thunderbolt Pose:
Begin standing, then lower your knees to the mat, sitting on your heels with toes pointing outward. Palms rest on knees, facing upward.
Padahastasana – Hand to Foot Pose:
Start from Samasthithi, exhale, and bend your upper body, lowering your head. “Place your palms beside your feet, aiming to touch your forehead to your legs. Keep the shoulders and neck relaxed,” Akshar said.
Balasana (Child's Pose)
Kneel on the mat, bringing heels together. Inhale and raise arms, then exhale, lowering your upper body, forehead resting on the floor. Pelvis rests on heels.
Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bending)
• Begin in Dandasana (Staff Pose) with slightly bent knees.
• Exhale while folding forward from hips, gripping big toes.
• Aim to touch knees with nose, holding the asana.
Halasana (Plough Pose)
• Begin on your back, lift legs up.
• Hold pelvis with hands, push upwards, toes behind head.
• Caution: Avoid experiencing lumbago, neck pain, spondylitis, or high blood pressure.
Also read: These Gentle Poses Can Help You Manage Arthritis
Yoga's Multifaceted Benefits
Enhanced Strength and Flexibility:
Aging often leads to reduced flexibility, but yoga has been found to slow down and even improve flexibility loss in older adults, according to a 2019 study.
Boosted Immune System:
Yoga combats the negative impacts of chronic stress on the immune system, making practitioners more resilient to illnesses.
Improved Balance:
Yoga enhances balance, a vital component for everyday activities. Better balance improves functional abilities such as reaching for objects or navigating stairs.
Cardiovascular Well-being:
Pranayama, or yogic breathing, is a fundamental aspect of yoga. It reduces stress, enhances lung capacity, and supports overall health.
To achieve youthful skin, follow these poses and pranayama exercises. Hold each pose for 10-15 seconds. Hydration and a nutritious diet are crucial companions to these asanas. Embrace the journey to attain the youthful skin you desire, supported by the age-old wisdom of yoga.