It may sound odd at first, but if you think about it, yoga exercises for the face deliver the same benefits that asanas do for the body. Remember, all muscles atrophy if not used. So how does it work? Well facial yoga is a mix of exaggerated expressions and resistance massage all designed to specifically work the facial muscles to boost blood circulation and the flow of oxygen and nutrients to cells in the head, neck, face, scalp and brain. These exercises stimulate collagen and elastin production to smooth and tighten the skin. Our facial muscles get a work out and then relax, which creates a re-energized look. Regular practice - around 20 minutes a day - can deliver glowing and more youthful-looking complexions with changes, particularly around the jaw and neckline, becoming noticeable, in as little as a fortnight.
One of the specific benefits of facial yoga is its ability to reduce tension in the face and neck because, like traditional yoga, it helps clear the mind of stress and clutter thinking. This occurs because, as with traditional yoga, conscious, deep breathing has an essential role in facial yoga. Taking slower and deeper breaths, helps us relax and reboot mentally and physically.
As with any exercise, don't just embark on a self-made regime. Facial yoga exercises have been as carefully designed as the body 'asanas.' Here is one anyone can try, it's called Eyebrow Stroking. Place your index fingers in the centre of your eyebrows then start to stroke your finger across your eyebrow to the temples. Repeat this several times. This will release tension from between your eyebrows, where we create wrinkles when we frown or put on an angry expression. Doesn't that feel good?
Elaine Kelly is a passionate advocate for health and wellness and a life-long student of yoga. You can reach out to Elaine, who is an expert on the UAE's leading online health and wellness platform, Enritsch.com - providing complimentary advice and enritsch-ing lives around the world.
This article was published in Khaleej Times on 29 July 2017.
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