As we age, many of us search for ways to make our face look younger. Whilst surgery is an option for some, others prefer to stick to natural methods. If you fall into this category, this article is perfect for you. According to expert yogini’s, yoga can be used to sculpt the face, lift your cheeks, and even prevent wrinkles! Often referred to as ‘Face Yoga’, the practice consists of simple face exercises that can be performed daily. Another secret to a younger looking face is fresh, glowing skin. Thankfully, yoga can be used to achieve this, too! Poses such as Bow Pose and Supported Shoulder Stand increase circulation, which, in turn, improves the skin by feeding the cells with oxygen-rich blood. In this article, we explore how to use yoga for a younger face. Before getting started, it’s worth picking up some comfortable clothes to practice in. Now the warmer weather is upon us, some shorts and a supportive yoga bra will help to keep the body cool.
X and O Pose
X and O Pose helps to strengthen the cheeks and jaw muscles to keep your face looking toned and trim. Additionally, the movement can help to burn fat when practiced regularly. To practice the exercise, lengthen your neck and relax your face. Mouth the letters X and O so that your jaw, cheek, and lips are all moving. Repeat each letter 10 times for best results.
Fish Face Pose
Fish Face Pose also tones the cheeks and jaws. Additionally, the exercise helps to keep your lips looking full. 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.
Saxophone Cheeks Pose
Saxophone Cheeks Pose is another favorite amongst those hoping to achieve a younger face. To practice the pose, take a deep breath in through the mouth and puff out your left cheek. Hold the air for around 5 seconds before transferring it to your right cheek. You are in Saxophone Cheeks Pose. Repeat the process around 10 times for best results.
Puppet Face Pose
Puppet Face Pose provides a natural alternative to botox. The pose strengthens and tones the entire face to prevent sagging skin, wrinkles, and loose cheeks. To practice the exercise, place the tip of your fingers in your smile lines. Hold the smile and use your fingers to push your cheeks up. You are in Puppet Face Pose. Hold the position for around 30 seconds before releasing the smile and removing your fingers.
Legs Up The Wall Pose
Legs Up The Wall Pose is great for improving blood circulation. As the posture is inverted, the legs are at a higher level than the heart. This position allows the blood to flow towards the heart and improve circula-tion. To practice this asana, place the shortest side of your yoga mat against a wall. When your mat is in place, sit down facing the wall. Gently lie back on the mat and extend both legs up the wall. Make sure that your bottom is almost touching the wall and that your legs are close together. You are in Legs Up The Wall Pose. Hold the pose for around 5 minutes or however long feels most comfortable.
Corpse Pose
In addition to improving blood flow, Corpse Pose is great for relieving stress and lowering blood pressure. Better still, it’s super easy to practice! To perform the asana, lie on your back with your legs straight. Next, relax your arms and rest them by the sides of your body. You are in Corpse Pose. Hold the asana for around 5 minutes, or until you feel your body and mind start to relax.
Supported Shoulderstand
Supported Shoulderstand improves blood circulation by supplying the brain and heart with fresh, oxygen-ated blood. To perform the asana, begin by lying on your back. Bend your knees while keeping the soles of your feet on the floor. After a few seconds, gently lift your feet and buttocks off the mat. To support the asana, place your hands on your lower back for support and keep your upper arms on the floor. When you’re ready, slowly raise your legs towards the ceiling. On your next breath straighten your knees without locking them. Your heels should be pointing toward the ceiling. You are in Supported Shoulderstand. Hold the asana for around 30 seconds before lowering your legs back down to the ground.
Bow Pose
Bow Pose gives the skin a healthy glow by providing the body with fresh oxygen and nutrients in the blood. To perform the asana, begin on your stomach. Bend both your knees to bring your legs up behind you. When you can, lift your chest off the mat and reach your arms back to take hold of your feet. You are in Bow Pose. Hold the asana or around 30 seconds whilst breathing deeply. When you’re ready, release your feet and lower your legs back to the mat.
In Summary
Whether you’re trying to combat signs of aging or you’re hoping to nip them in the bud before they occur, practicing the poses above can help you to achieve a younger face. While some practitioners enjoy attending a local class, others find it easier to practice at home. If you do decide to practice independently, be sure to wear suitable clothing and practice on a good-quality mat. If you’re unsure on how to practice the poses above, a variety of tutorials can be found online.