On this International Yoga Day, experts highlight the profound impact of stress on skin health and the potential benefits of yoga in mitigating these effects. Stress, often underestimated in its influence, can exacerbate a range of skin conditions including psoriasis, rosacea, acne, hives, rashes, and fever blisters. According to Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, Founder of Akshar Yoga Kendraa and an esteemed author and columnist, stress triggers the release of hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, disrupting the skin’s natural processes and leading to inflammation, dryness, and premature aging.
Akshar underscores that chronic stress induces inflammation, causing redness, swelling, and irritation which can worsen existing skin issues or initiate new ones such as acne breakouts and eczema flare-ups. Additionally, stress compromises the skin’s barrier function, reducing hydration and increasing susceptibility to environmental stressors, resulting in dryness and heightened sensitivity.
However, Akshar emphasizes that yoga presents a holistic approach to managing stress and enhancing skin health. Yoga combines physical postures (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama), and meditation to reduce stress levels and promote relaxation. The International Journal of Yoga acknowledges yoga’s ability to counteract the body’s fight-or-flight response, fostering harmony between mind and body.
Physically, yoga improves circulation and lymphatic drainage through postures, aiding toxin removal and enhancing complexion radiance. Certain yoga poses also stimulate the endocrine system, regulating hormone levels and reducing cortisol production. Meanwhile, deep breathing exercises and meditation in yoga lower blood pressure, heart rate, and cortisol levels, promoting inner peace and mental tranquility.
Incorporating yoga into daily routines not only helps manage stress effectively but also supports overall skin health by reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and maintaining hormonal balance. Akshar concludes that while stress’s impact on skin is undeniable, yoga serves as a potent tool in alleviating these effects, restoring equilibrium, and promoting a glowing complexion.
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