Dry skin is one of the most common skin problems troubling people of all ages and backgrounds. It can be quite a frustrating and uncomfortable issue. But it is important to understand that dry skin is more than an external problem. According to Ayurveda, dry skin is actually a consequence of vata dosha imbalance.
The good thing is that it can be managed. So, today we will be talking about 3 ways to address dry skin problems based on the principles and practices of Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of holistic medicine and Yoga.
Ayurveda views dry skin as a manifestation of a vata dosha imbalance. Vata represents air and space and when imbalanced can cause rough and flaky skin texture which gets worse under low humidity conditions.
Our three-way approach will address this vata imbalance to promote a more inner balance leading to healthy, soft, hydrated skin.
- The power of natural body oils
Natural body oils can be a great way to combat dry skin. Unlike lotions, they form a protective layer on your skin, trapping moisture and preventing it from escaping. This keeps your skin feeling soft and hydrated for longer. These oils also nourish your skin, contributing to a healthy appearance. A good natural body oil to try is Balaayah Black Gram Bright Body Booster, which specifically works to balance the vata dosha.
You can also try Abhyanga, which is the oiling of the body. Abhyanga is a traditional practice involving self-massage with warm oil. It offers more than just relaxation! The oil helps keep your skin lubricated and may improve overall health. Massaging the oil into your skin increases blood flow, which can give your skin a healthier appearance.
- Diet to balance vata dosha
Eat smaller meals throughout the day to keep your digestive system happy. Ginger and garlic are your friends as they help with digestion.
When it comes to selecting the right food, go for whole grains like wheat and sesame for energy. Opt for light, easily digestible pulses like black gram and green gram. Milk products like yogurt, ghee, and cheese are great sources of healthy fats. Sesame oil and other warm oils are perfect for cooking. Vegetables like white gourd, drumstick, and asparagus provide essential vitamins. Sweet fruits like mango, grapes, and dates offer a natural energy boost.
- Yoga
Uttanasana is really good to pacify vata dosha. It is also known as standing forward bend that intensely stretches the entire back of the body. Another excellent asana is Balasana as it helps to compress the pelvic region. Compression asanas are good for constipation and chronic gas.
One can also do Supta Virasasana. It creates a mild extension of the lower abdominal muscles and lower back. This helps to increase the pressure on the pelvis which in turn alleviates vata dosha.
Conclusion
Dry skin doesn’t have to be a constant battle! By incorporating these three things – natural body oils, a vata-balancing diet, and specific yoga poses – you can address the root cause of the problem and achieve healthy, hydrated skin from the inside out.
