It’s not just a coincidence that your favorite yoga instructor always seems to be wearing an otherworldly glow – yoga is not only an incredible form of exercise (physically and mentally!) but it can also be a powerful tool in your quest for skin that is naturally and consistently radiant. That’s why we put together a guide of some common yoga poses that have substantial implications for healthy skin – and overall wellness. Just remember, as with all yoga practices – start slow, and warm up before trying challenging poses. And, if you’re a beginner, take your time with simple poses until you’re gradually able to attempt those that are more difficult!
1
Downward Facing Dog
This ubiquitous pose is an iteration of the forward bend, commonly practiced in yoga for skin, and helps combat the natural effects of gravity, by allowing the head to naturally fall toward the ground, rather than upward to the sky. The forward bend also encourages blood to flow to the face more quickly, bringing oxygen and other nutrients that encourage skin regeneration and fight free radicals, leading to a natural glow.
2
Seated Twist (Bharadvaja’s Twist)
This twisting pose is a great addition to your face yoga for glowing skin routine as it encourages digestive health – which many agree is a key to ridding the organs of toxins and impurities, which can manifest themselves in the form of acne and other blemishes on the skin. But remember – there is more to this pose than the twisting motion. Deep, cleansing breaths are necessary to take advantage of its full benefits. Also, be sure to follow your practice with a glass of water to help flush the body of its toxins!
3
Tadasana (Mountain Pose)
Simple poses like this allow your body to be still, as you focus on deep, rhythmic breaths. Ensuring your body gets a substantial and steady source of oxygen is a crucial component of healthy skin – and while it may seem obvious, many adults barely breathe into their throats! The flow of oxygen into and out of the body keeps your systems running functionally, and purges the body of toxins.
4
Warrior I
This pose is physically strenuous, and increases the heart rate and rate of circulation throughout the body. It also prompts sweat, which is also an effective way to cleanse the body of harmful impurities. Alternatives to Warrior I include the Chair Pose and Half Moon Pose.
5
Savasana
The corpse pose is a great way to relax and rejuvenate the entire body – and skin – via meditation and yogic breathing. Deep, cleansing breaths, coupled with a release of muscular tension throughout the body, allow for a natural sense of calm and the alleviation of anxiety – further preventing visible signs of stress like wrinkles and frown lines.
And there you have it – a quick guide to some useful skin-centric yoga poses that benefit the whole body as well. Of course, these poses are most effective as part of a regular and varied yoga practice. As always, exercise caution when practicing yoga (or any other form of physical exercise)! And, for another powerful and natural way to achieve glowing skin, check out our full line of face oils – targeted to solve common skin issues with 100% organic, botanical extracts!
