Yoga Poses for Radiant Skin

We all want radiant skin. Although there are endless beauty products claiming to offer a ‘miracle cure’, many of them fall short in terms of the results. To make matters worse, they are often hideously expensive. If you’re hoping to rejuvenate your skin without breaking the bank, why not try a natural remedy? People worldwide are now using yoga to make their skin glow. You can, too! All you need is a comfortable mat and a breathable yoga t-shirt. In this article, we explore the best yoga poses for radiant skin.

Forward Fold

The first posture in the sequence is Forward Fold. Promoting blood flow to the face, it is one of the most functional asanas for radiant skin. As well supplying the skin cells with fresh, oxygenated blood, Forward Fold supplies the face with helpful nutrients that fight the damaged caused by UV rays.

To practice the asana, stand tall with your feet directly under your hips. Hinge forward at the waist and begin to lower your upper body towards the floor. To minimise pressure on the lower back, remember to bend your knees generously throughout the pose. Next, take hold of your ankles and let your body hang naturally toward the floor. You are in Forward Fold. Hold the posture for 1 minute whilst breathing deeply. To increase the stretch, gently sway your torso from side to side.

Bharadvja’s twist

To achieve nourished skin, it’s vital for your digestive system to be in good health. Bharadvja’s Twist helps to remove toxins and other harmful substances from the body. In turn, this prevents your skin from absorbing waste and promotes a radiant complexion.

To practice the asana, sit on the floor with your legs extended. Next, bend your right knee and place the bottom of your foot on the mat. When you’re ready, bend the opposite knee and place your left foot under your right leg. If possible, try to touch your left heel against your right buttock. Finally, place your right palm on the mat just behind your bottom and move your left elbow to the outside of your right knee. You are in Bharadvja’s Twist. Hold the asana for around 5 breaths before repeating on the opposite side. To increase the stretch, twist your body a little each time you inhale.

Fish Pose

As Fish Pose only uses the face, it can be practiced anywhere! In addition to increasing blood flow to the face, this asana promotes radiant skin by improving the functions of the pineal, thyroid, and pituitary gland. When these are working correctly, your hormone levels are under control. This prevents excess oil from being produced that could lead to breakouts.

To practice the pose, close your mouth and draw your cheeks inward to create a ‘Fish Face’. Finally, try to smile whilst maintaining the position. You are in Fish Face Pose. Hold the pose for around 15 seconds before repeating the process. For best results, repeat the exercise at least 5 times.

Triangle Pose

Another great posture for glowing skin is Triangle Pose. Opening the lungs, chest, and heart, the asana supplies more oxygen to the skin and leaves it feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

To practice the asana, begin by standing with your feet apart. Bring your arms out to the sides until they’re in line with your shoulders. Turn your right foot out 90 degrees and your left foot in 45 degrees. Engaging your quadriceps, bend to the side over your right leg. For support, place your right hand on your ankle, shin, or knee. Finally, lift your left arm towards the ceiling and gaze at your fingertips. You are in Triangle Pose. Hold the asana for 30 seconds before repeating on the opposite side.

Cobra Pose

As well as reducing tension and fatigue, Cobra Pose rejuvenates the skin by supplying oxygen to the skin cells. In turn, this helps the body to flush out built-up toxins.

To practice the asana, start by lying on your stomach. Your legs should be extended with the tops of your feet touching the mat. Next, place your hands directly under your shoulders. When you’re ready, draw your elbows back and press the tops of your feet into the floor. Remain in this position for a couple of seconds whilst breathing deeply. Next, straighten both your arms to raise your chest off the mat. Finally, press your tailbone into the ground and engage your buttocks. You are in Cobra Pose. Hold the posture for around 5 breaths before releasing the backbend.

Wind Relieving Pose

As mentioned earlier, healthy digestion is vital for radiant skin. Helping to relieve bloating and constipation, Wind Relieving Pose keeps the digestive system running smoothly. In turn, this reduces acne and blemishes on the face.

To practice the asana, start by lying on your back. Draw your knees into your chest and slowly rock from side to side to massage your lower back. After a couple of seconds, extend your left leg while keeping your right leg tucked into your chest. Move your right thigh to rest it on the ground. You are in Wind Relieving Pose. Hold the posture for around 1 minute before switching sides.

Mountain Pose

The final posture in the sequence is Mountain Pose. Helping you to achieve deep and rhythmic breathing, this asana improves your skin by supplying the cells with fresh oxygen. Much like the other postures, this then helps the body to dispose of waste and toxins.

To practice the asana, begin standing with your feet together. Press down through your toes as you spread them apart. Tense your quadriceps to lift your kneecaps, then lift yourself up through your inner thighs. As you lift your chest, draw your stomach in and up and press your shoulders down. Bring your shoulder blades together to open your chest, keeping your palms facing inwards. You are in Mountain Pose. Hold the asana for around 30 seconds whilst breathing deeply.

In Summary

Regardless of your age or gender, practice the sequence above to achieve radiant skin. For best results, try to practice at least twice a week. To fit this in, many yogis head straight to the studio from work. If you choose to do this, remember to pack your bag with a comfortable yoga mat before leaving the house.