Translated from Sanskrit, Ayurveda means life knowledge as it provides Ayurvedic lifestyle tips that help to nourish the mind, body, and soul.
The skin is the biggest organ in the body, thus it is imperative that we take great care of it. However, while there are countless skin care products, a lot of them are filled with synthetic ingredients that can harm both our skin and health (1).
Thankfully, through the use of Ayurvedic methods, one can continuously ensure healthier, glowing skin.
Ayurvedic beauty tips
Know your dosha
Dosha is an Ayurvedic term used to describe the biological energies that influence our individual makeup. In knowing your dosha, one will be better equipped to cater to your body’s specific needs.
The three main types of doshas are based on a combination of elements, and they are Vata (wind and air), Pitta (fire and water), and Kapha (earth and water). In regards to skincare, dry skin would be Vata, oily skin would be Kapha and Pitta would refer to sensitive skin prone to breakouts and rashes.
Knowing your dosha, you’ll be able to determine that pitta requires products for sensitive skin, vata skin needs to be regularly hydrated and kapha skin needs help balancing its sebum production.
Use a massage oil
Abhyanga refers to a full body oil massage and by having one, you’ll not only stimulate circulation and better moisturize your skin, but you’ll also clean out your lymphatic system.
By using body oil, you’ll also help to hydrate your skin cells
Oils such as jojoba oil and almond oil are hydrating, thus they would be perfect for typically dry vata skin. For pitta skin, it’s best to go with oils that help to soothe sensitive skin; preferably lavender oil and tea tree oil.
Regarding kapha – just because it’s oily doesn’t mean you shouldn’t use massage oil. It’s best to use lightweight oils such as hemp oil and ylang-ylang oil.
Feed your skin
There is a strong emphasis on a diet in Ayurveda, which is why it is important to be conscious of the effect that your diet can have on your skin.
It is necessary to consume foods that are rich in antioxidants and other skin-nurturing ingredients. The food groups that fit this description are fruits and vegetables (2).
Regarding vegetables, Ayurvedic teachings advise that you consume water-rich vegetables, as they’ll help to better purify the body. By consuming them, you’ll not only reap the benefits of their antioxidants, but you’ll also help to keep your skin hydrated. Such veggies include cucumbers, carrots, lettuce, and radishes.
Herbs and spices also work quite well and are quite common in Ayurvedic practices. Turmeric, holy basil, and sandalwood not only detoxify the skin but also help to fight off premature aging.
You can also enjoy a cup of freshly brewed tea throughout the day. The cup won’t only help you keep warm, but it will also leave you with healthy skin as many teas, such as rooibos and white tea, have anti-aging and detoxing effects.
Besides feeding your skin the right foods, Ayurveda advises that you protect it from the wrong foods. The wrong foods refer to processed, high-sugar, high-salt foods as well as caffeine and tobacco as these can rapidly age the skin.
Eat nuts and seeds
Both nuts and seeds are incredibly rich in omega-3s, healthy fats, and other skin-boosting nutrients such as vitamin E.
Seeds that can help support healthy skin include sunflower seeds, flax seeds, pumpkin seeds, and chia seeds. Regarding nuts, almonds, and cashews work quite well.
Stay active
Aside from the countless health benefits proven by studies, exercising also improves skin health.
By encouraging blood circulation and inducing sweat, exercising helps rid your body of toxins and this can leave you with healthy, glowing skin.
The American Heart Association suggests that we get at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes per week of vigorous aerobic activity, or a combination of both preferably spread throughout the week (3).
Breathing exercises
Stress is common, but chronic stress can wreak havoc on the skin, causing acne, breakouts, and premature aging.
That being said, it is important to find alternative ways in which to reduce stress levels. One such way is through meditation and breathing exercises. Breathing exercises provide your skin cells with oxygen, which they then use to keep your skin healthy.
Try these easy breathing exercises
Get enough sleep
Ayurvedic or not, beauty sleep is critical for both your skin and general health.
It is while you sleep that your body rejuvenates itself and repairs and replenishes skin cells. Poor sleep won’t only increase the risk for chronic diseases, but it can also leave you looking aged, tired, and dull. A minimum of seven hours of sleep each night can encourage a healthier appearance.
If you’re having trouble falling asleep, these tips can help you rest a little easier.
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