Ayurvedic Skincare
Ayurveda is an ancient medical wisdom, derived from India, and over five thousand years old. It takes into account physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing, and is referred to as 'the science of life' - 'Ayus' (life) and 'Veda' (knowledge).
Ayurvedic skin care is specifically formulated according to the 3 'doshas' or constitutions - Vata, Pitta and Kapha.
Using herbs, spices, plants, flowers and minerals, products are intended to treat these specific constitutions, and achieve balance for the skin, and the body as a whole.
Rather than treating symptoms such as dry skin, oily skin, wrinkles or pimples, Ayurveda looks deeper into the person and seeks to achieve balance for the Vata, Pitta and Kapha elements within us all. When we are balanced, our inner beauty shines forth, our skin glows, and any symptoms of imbalance are healed and soothed.
Which type am I?
Everyone has elements of Vata, Pitta and Kapha within them, however at different times of your life, and even during different seasons of the year, you are likely to be experiencing one dosha more so than the others.
Vata types are associated with the elements of air and space. They may have dry skin, fine lines, be affected by cold weather, and/or experience ruddy pigmentation of the skin. They often speak quickly, may change or move often, and may experience anxiousness and nervousness in times of stress. Vata types are described as being quick witted & always on the go both physically / mentally or both.
Pitta types are associated with the element of fire, and usually have sensitive skin. They are affected by heat, and/or inflamation, and do better in a colder environment. They are motivated and often have strong opinions. They may lose their temper easily, or experience frustration in times of stress. Pitta types benefit from avoiding excessively hot, steamy environments - so avoid bikram yoga & the sauna!
Kapha types are associated with the elements of water and earth, and usually have normal to oily skin. They may experience blackheads, large pores and/or congestion. They dislike the cold, and prefer warm humid environments.
They may take longer to make decisions, and speak slowly. They may experience laziness and lack of motivation during times of stress.
How Can I Improve My Skin With Ayurveda?
When imbalanced, each dosha benefits from its opposite qualities.
Kapha for example, benefits from stimulating and invigorating excercise, tastes, and smells.
Pitta on the other hand, can be balanced by staying cool and ‘keeping your cool’.
Vata needs to stay warm, stick to a routine, and surround themselves with calm and stability.
Ayurvedic skin care takes all this into account, using cooling, warming or invigorating spices and herbs in their relevant product formulations.
Take some everyday beauty products for the body:
Kapha types should use a vigorous body exfoliating scrub to get circulation flowing and clear out congestion.
Pitta types should use a light cooling body lotion to calm inflammation or heated skin.
Vata types should use a rich moisturising body oil with gentle massage to nourish dry skin and brittle nails.
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