Aging signs & wrinkles on the skin are the messengers of what is going on deep within the body & mind. Skin concerns and organ imbalances are deeply co-related in the beauty understanding of Ayurveda.
Aging signs & wrinkles in Ayurveda are caused due to dosha imbalance which creates a disharmony in the functioning of organ systems according to Traditional Chinese Medicine. Aging is an attribute of vata dosha imbalance in Ayurveda and is the force behind dryness, loss of collagen and premature aging. Vata energy resides in the colon (large intestine) and any kind of colon stagnation leads to poor nutrient absorption leading to weakening of the tissue health. Additionally, over activity of the nervous system induces the release of excess stress hormone cortisol, that leads to the breakdown of collagen.
Yoga Solution to Aging & Wrinkling
Practicing yogasanas that calm down vata energy is the first and foremost step in yoga to deal with any aging signs on the skin & within the body. The vata energy deeply calms down by practicing forward folds such as Paschimottanasana & Janu Shirsasana. Hip openers such as Baddha Konasana balances the Apana Vayu, the force behind colon regulation. Backbends such as Bhujangasana and Setu Bandhasana nourish & strengthen the adrenal glands that helps control the release of cortisol in the bloodstream which controls the effects of excess stress on the body & skin. It also increases circulation to face.
Pranayama to Control Aging Signs
Pranayama practices are known to calm down the vata energy that directly impact the nervous system. An agitated nervous system causes skin dryness, creases in the tissues, disturbed sleep, weak digestion, and accelerated aging. Vata energy is governed by breath, therefore pranayama practices support the calming of vata energy having a direct impact on aging signs and restoring youthfulness.
Nadi Shodhana or Alternate Nostril Breathing - Nadi-Shodhana is a vata pacifying practice. With its steady, predictable breath pattern, the Nadi Shodhana pranayama stabilizes the prana vayu, which in turn stabilizes the entire vata system in the body. Regular practice of Nadi Shodhana leads to more hydrated tissues, reduced fine lines and greater skin elasticity.
Nadi Shodhana practice is also calming for the nervous system and creates an inner environment in the body where skin repairs, collagen replenishes, hormones stabilize and inflammation reduces. This leads to softer facial expressions, reduced frown lines and brighter complexion.