First of all, what does healthy skin actually mean? Usually, healthy skin is defined by the tone, texture, hydration, and firmness of the skin. In other words, our skin is healthy when it is generally free of blemishes, is overall hydrated, has a good even color and is elastic. Sometimes healthy skin can be a sign of overall good health. From an ayurvedic perspective, this means the health of the body, mind, and spirit - and the practice of maintaining good skin health, is also a path to the overall wellness we are seeking. Let me explain...
Our skin health affects us psychologically. As teenagers perhaps with acne, as parents with the visible daily tiredness and as middle agers with the loss of firmness and onset of fine lines, and wrinkles. Healthy skin makes our lives a little less stressful and simpler. It boosts confidence and self-esteem, increases happiness, its cost-saving as there is less need for make-up, less need for invasive or non-invasive procedures, and it promotes overall positively and well-being.
While poor skin health can sometimes be the cause of our unhappiness, it can also be a reflection of our overall lack of well-being, including, deficiencies in nutrition, a weak immune system, poor stress management practices and even weakness in certain internal organs.
But often, we overlook our skincare because we are busy, tired, misinformed, or uninformed or we think perhaps we've missed the boat. We think it’s too late and the damage is already done. Actually, from all that science tells us, this is not true. Investing in better skin health can begin anytime, at any age. But gaining healthy skin is a holistic practice that includes, using skincare products that are natural, maintaining proper nutrition, adequate hydration, frequent exercise, and customized stress relief activity, this can be meditation or music, reading or massages, writing or walks in nature, whatever suits your lifestyle.
The great news is that the entire ritual of skincare can be the vessel for that harmonious connection of body, mind, and spirit that we are all looking for. The few minutes in the morning and the evening dedicated to self-care can bring calm and serenity to the beginning and end of the day. It can become a meditative ritual that helps us practice self-love, gratitude and mindfulness and brings serenity into our daily lives. It can be practiced in the comfort of our homes and when using natural skincare products, this ritual can connect us with nature and her healing properties.
Lastly, there are long term benefits in investing in skincare - who doesn't love those? By adopting a consistent skincare routine and practicing healthy life habits our skin a less stressed, less vulnerable to external and internal pressures and stays healthier and smoother longer - despite our years.
Investing in skin health is not just about superficial beauty; it's a way of investing in ourselves and our overall well-being. Let’s make our skincare ritual an act of self-love and self-care, of joy and happiness, peace, and connection. Let’s embrace the journey of skincare (holistically), love our skin, thank our body, calm our mind, and feed our soul, because life is short, and we want to live it with as much love and laughter as possible.
(Note: This blog post provides general information and is not a substitute for professional skincare advice.)
