Yoga has a positive effect on both the body & mind
Yoga may be an ancient discipline, but has become popular worldwide, because it is so relevant to our modern lifestyle, not only in terms of both health and beauty, but also to preserve our youthful qualities. According to yoga, there are three asanas that should be done together in a flowing movement to protect the youthfulness of our face and body. These are parvatasana, bhujangasana and kumbhakasana… and then returning to paravatasana. These poses are to be done with a specific focus on breath. This is done by first getting into the downward dog asana, breathing normally. After five breaths lower the body while breathing out. Then lift your chest for bhujangasana and hold the pose for five breaths. Then go into kumbhakasana or plank pose. After five breaths, go back to parvatasana. This cycle helps to tone arms and abdomen, keeping the body youthful and the skin firm.
As we all know, yoga deals with physical exercises, called asanas, which entail the assuming of welldefined poses with precise results. Some asanas not only reduce stress, but also keep the system flushed, getting rid of toxins and wastes. Kapalbhati — a breathing exercise is also said to help. In this, the exhaling of breath is done with a little force. It is said to help remove carbon dioxide and thus purify the blood. This also helps to decongest the system, keeping the skin clear and youthful. Dhanurasana is a posture that resembles a bow. It is excellent for removing toxins and flushing the system. It also promotes blood circulation and reduces stress. It benefits the skin, making it clear and adding a glow.
For wrinkle- free skin, try this yogic asana along with Pranayama. Stand straight and place feet and legs wide apart. Cover face with palms and breathe deeply and quickly for 10 counts. Then while continuing to breathe, rub the face with fingers, starting from chin and going to the forehead. Include the area around eyes. This helps make the skin smooth, firm and radiant.
Shirshasana or headstand is difficult and needs practice, but it helps improve blood circulation from head to skin. This also activates all the endocrine glands, maintaining hormonal balance and also relieving stress. It benefits the skin due to flow of oxygenated blood to the skin surface, improving cell regeneration and all other functions of the skin.
Yoga is not only like a face- lift, but also has beneficial effects on the mind. Studies conducted on those who practice yoga have shown that positive changes occur in personality, attitudes, emotional stability and self- confidence. It has a direct effect on the mind, emotions and mood. In fact, yoga is a regular stressbuster and puts the glow back on your skin. Feeling good makes you look good too!
It is said that after yoga, one should drink plenty of water and relax. That is why Shavasana is done at the end. It is also called “the corpse pose” where one lies with eyes closed and body totally relaxed. The mind is fully conscious, but relaxed. This posture can last for 10 to 20 minutes.
After yoga, wash your face and apply a face pack to soothe and calm the skin. The ingredients that may be used are aloe vera, rose water, green tea, chamomile tea, honey and oatmeal. If the skin is oily, multani mitti may be used. Take four teaspoons of oats and mix one teaspoon each of aloe vera, rose water, green tea or chamomile tea and honey. Mix and apply on the face, avoiding lips and area around eyes. It may be applied on the neck too. Wash it off after 20 to 30 minutes.
Tomorrow, June 21, is International Yoga Day