7 Tips for Healthy & Radiant Skin - The Ayurvedic Way

As women, we strive to achieve beautiful, radiant skin. We as humans are attracted to clear, beautiful skin and luminously radiant complexion because it is a sign of health. Ayurveda has a few tricks up its sleeve to obtain clearer, softer, more radiant skin without digging a hole in your wallet.

But, let's first take a look what cause the skin to become dry, rough and irritated. Ayurveda points a finger at the accumulation of excess Vata in our bodies. Vata prevails during autumn and winter and becomes more apparent in those that are older than 50. An excess in Vata in our bodies can lead to dry skin, cracked joints, thin and dry hair, and brittle nails. Vata also increases when we are stressed, follow an unhealthy diet or live in a cold and dry climate. The secret to a more youthful appearance is keeping Vata in check, i.e. balanced.

Here are a few tips how you can decelerate the accumulation of Vata within the body which in turn helps the body stay younger and our skin appear more beautiful and glowy.

Eat your veggies

Stick to consuming vegetables that have a high water content and that are easy to digest. This includes food such as salads, carrots, fennel or asparagus spears. These types of vegetables are good for all doshas, thus all skin types. Simply combine the vegetables mentioned and blend with an olive oil and lemon salad dressing.

Eat like a bird

Traditional, as well as Ayurvedic medicine, agree that the consumption of nuts and seeds improve the health of the skin. Natural, healthy fats counterbalance the drying effect that Vata has on the body. Nuts and seeds are very healthy — they contain omega 3 and other healthy fatty acids such as fibre that aids digestion. Enjoy almonds, sunflower seeds, linseeds and other nut types as a snack at midday when Vata is predominant.

Drink tea

Warm beverages such as herbal teas are great at warming and hydrating the body. Infuse your tea with fresh ginger and lemon to give you an energy boost at midday and keeping digestion going, which is essential for radiant skin.

Train your skin

Physical training is necessary to prevent the accumulation of Vata in our bodies. According to modern medicine, doing sports is essential for healthy muscles and joints, while toxins are being expelled from our bodies. Exercising on a regular basis improves blood circulation and digestion which is directly linked to achieving a glowy complexion. Opt for a workout that leaves you feeling energized and refreshed. Whether you decide to go jogging, dancing, yoga or boxing — the aim is to have fun at it!

Breathe

One of the main reasons Vata increases is due to emotional and mental stress which quite literally sucks out vital substances from our skin causing dehydration.

Meditation and breathing exercises can be effective at easing stressful situations. A simple breathing exercise entails placing one hand on your stomach and one hand on your chest while laying down comfortably on your back. Inhale, filling your lungs with air and exhale. Repeat this breathing exercise 5 to 10 times when confronted with stressful situations.

Drift off to sleep at sunset

Too much Vata can lead to sleepless nights which has a negative impact on the skin. Seven hours of sleep is optimal for healthy and glowy skin. Try some relaxation exercises when you have trouble falling asleep.

Moisture is key

Keeping the body hydrated is vital in order for the skin to function at its best. However, it is also important to keep your skin moisturised and hydrated. Cleansing and moisturising care are essential for a healthy and younger-looking appearance. An oil massage is great at combating dry skin. Anti-aging oil massages in the evening are perfect for optimum absorption. It is advised to massage the skin 2 to 3 times a week using a conditioning oil. The massage stimulates blood circulation, lymphatic drainage and reduces the accumulation of water in the body. Furthermore, a good massage calms the mind and balances the soul. Naturally and organically produced oils are ideal, but one can also incorporate oils that are specifically tailored toward reducing Vata.