For that natural radiance

Ayurveda is a holistic system of healing and it helps us in developing natural beauty. The kitchen shelf in our homes has many products that are advocated by Ayurveda. Here are a few home remedies to get that glowing skin

I have always maintained that internal health and external beauty are two sides of the same coin. An unhealthy lifestyle, lack of sleep and exercise, stress, nutritional deficiencies…. all reflect on the skin, making it dull and lifeless. Indeed, good health and physical fitness are imperative for glowing skin.

Research has shown that the Ayurvedic way of life is relevant to our modern lifestyle. The way of life
Ayurveda advocates is aimed at raising the level of fitness and good health. The influence of the mind on the body is also upheld by Ayurvedic principles; that freedom from mental stress is necessary for total wellbeing.

Ayurveda is a holistic system of healing. The treatment it prescribes takes into consideration, diet, exercise, relaxation, medication, massage and external care. In fact, yoga and meditation are part of the Ayurvedic way of life.

The ancient sages of India placed a high value on raw, natural foods and fresh fruit and vegetable juices. Natural foods are those that can be eaten raw, those that are naturally derived and those that are unrefined and unprocessed.

They detoxify the system, bringing about well-being and vitality, and are essential for glowing skin. A diet that is high in fresh fruits and vegetables, unprocessed cereals, sprouted grains, nuts, seeds, can make you look and feel much better. The general feeling of wellbeing actually improves the mental outlook, helping the body to cope with stress, boosts self-confidence and adds a zest to life.

Daily exercise adds a healthy glow to the skin by improving blood circulation to the surface. It also helps to oxygenate the tissues, as every tissue of the body needs oxygen. Begin by doing deep breathing exercises, like pranayama, in front of an open window. Check with your doctor before starting exercise. Adequate sleep is a beauty treatment in itself.

Tips for glowing skin

• Right there, on your kitchen shelf are many ingredients advocated by Ayurveda:
• Tone the skin daily with chilled rose water, using cotton wool pads. Wipe and stroke the skin with them. Then, pat briskly with the rosewater-soaked cotton wool pads.
• Exfoliating the skin once or twice a week works wonders, removing dead cells and brightening the skin. Take sesame seeds (til), dried mint (pudina) leaves and honey. Crush the sesame seeds coarsely and powder the dried mint leaves. Mix them with a little honey and apply on the skin. Leave on for 5 minutes. Rub gently and wash off with water. Sesame seeds actually have sun protective properties and also soothe sun-damaged skin.
• Dried and powdered orange and lemon peels can be added to face packs, to add a glow to the skin. Mix them with Fullers Earth (multani mitti) and rose water into a paste. Apply on the face and wash it off when it is dry. This also clarifies the skin and is useful for oily skin.
• For normal to dry skin, mix one tablespoon each wheat bran (choker) and ground almonds with milk, honey and a little almond oil. Apply on the face and leave on for a few minutes. Then rub gently with circular movements and rinse off with water.