- Winter Skin Care
- By: Shreelata Suresh
According to ayurveda, all the
activities of mind and body are
governed by three psychophysiological energies known as Vata,
Pitta and Kapha. When these three principles within us are in
perfect balance, we enjoy good health. If one or more of these
energies within us is aggravated or out of balance, disorders
result.
Each of these principles is also
associated with a season. Winter is the season when Vata rides
higher than usual in most people's physiologies. During these
months, generally from mid-October to mid-February, the qualities
associated with Vata—dry, rough, cool—tend to increase
in the physiology. Increased Vata can thus result in dry flaky
skin, chapped lips and dry, brittle hair. If you are already
prone to these imbalances, winter will generally see an aggravation
of the conditions.
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Here are some ways to keep Vata
dosha in balance and prevent Vata-associated skin problems:
1. Avoid exposing skin to harsh winter elements
such as freezing temperatures and drying cold winds. Dress warmly,
in layers, and wear a hat, scarf and gloves when you go out in
cold weather. Wear a natural lip balm to protect your lips. A
light layer of ghee (clarified butter) can also work as natural
lip protection.
2. Protect facial skin from both cold winds and
drying air from heaters with a rich natural moisturizer. Apply
the moisturizer at least twice a day, once after your cleansing
routine in the morning and again before you go to bed. Always
apply moisturizer on clean skin. Your hands can also benefit
from the application of the moisturizer. |
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3. Three or four times a week, offer dry facial
and body skin additional lipid support with a replenishing oil.
Choose a nourishing base oil such as almond. Add six-eight drops
of a Vata-pacifying pure essential oil such as lavender or neroli
to two ounces of the base oil, and mix well. Apply to skin damp
from the bath or shower to seal in hydration. Test first to make
sure you are not sensitive to the essential oil you choose before
you apply it on a regular basis.
4. The pre-bath warm oil self-massage, called abhyanga,
is a must-do in winter. The massage not only keeps your skin
silky smooth, it also tones the muscles, calms the nerves and
aids circulation. Pat excess oil off with a paper towel before
you step into the bath or shower. Use a nourishing oil such as
almond or sesame oil for the massage.
5. The skin on your feet tends to dry and crack
more in winter. Treat your feet to a relaxing soak at night,
three times a week. A quick foot bath can be made in a large,
wide-mouthed bowl with warm water, sea salts, Epsom salt and
two or three drops of your favorite aroma oil. After the soak,
rub in an herbal lotion, some shea butter or some almond oil
on your feet. This ritual will not only keep your feet looking
good, it will also help you ease into sleep.
6. Do not bathe or shower in very hot water. Warm
water is much gentler on your skin. Do not bathe more than once
a day if your skin is very dry.
7. Do not use harsh soaps to cleanse, as they will
strip your skin of precious lipids. Use a non-soap cleanser or
very mild soap to cleanse.
8. Give your skin lipid support from within by including
soaked and blanched almonds, soaked walnuts, whole milk, fresh
cheese, and ghee (clarified butter) in your diet. Drink a cup
of warm milk laced with 1/4 teaspoon ghee at bedtime for a daily
boost of lipid support.
9. Eat fruits and vegetables high in water content
at every meal. Zucchini and other summer squashes, tender asparagus,
tender greens, and carrots make excellent vegetable choices.
Sweet juicy berries, cooked apples and sweet grapes are good
fruit choices. Drink lots of warm water through the day.
10. The Amla fruit (Indian Gooseberry) is the richest
known natural source of vitamin C. Herbs such as Amla provide
concentrated nourishment to the deeper layers of the skin. Take
Amla, also known as Amalaki, on a regular basis to replenish
skin from within.
Remember that a holistic approach
will yield the best results. Try and incorporate as many of the
above suggestions as you can to keep Vata dosha in balance and
your skin looking smooth, soft and beautiful through the dry
winter months.
Note: This material is educational, and is not intended
to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. If you have
a medical concern, please consult your physician.
Copyright AyurBalance, Inc. 2003 |
Beauty Secrets of the World