The world of anti-aging is filled with an endless array of ways to combat Father Time. Often, we head down the rabbit hole of creams and serums and syringes, oh my, all in the name of that creaseless, plump, dewy skin that may finally last us a lifetime. But as we come to deepen our relationship with all things beauty, we learn that in spite of our obsession for aesthetic perfection, beauty, as a quality, is something you have the power to cultivate, something that you can radiate from the inside-out. In an effort to age gracefully, i’ve rounded up the 5 most powerful alternative anti-aging techniques that can rapidly slow down the aging process and help you recapture your deep radiant glow.
1.THE JAPANESE FACE MASSAGE
Does the fountain of youth lie in a simple face massage? According to a 200 year-old Japanese beauty tradition, the answer is yes! Those unwanted tired eyes, the bags; the fine lines are actually caused by diminished blood circulation. A facial massage stimulates microcirculation sending fresh blood to the skin, resulting in brighter and glowing skin.
What you’ll need:
A Japanese Akari facial massager: (1.) Tatcha Akari Gold Massager ($195)
Here’s how: Begin at the chin and press a face massager up and out. Repeat the motion at the nose and forehead, always moving up and out. To relax and promote lymphatic drainage, begin on top of the head behind the hairline. Move forward and back, then move down towards the forehead and nose. Move outwards and then down behind the ears.
2. MEDITATION
A recent study published this year by the Harvard Medical School found that people who meditated daily for at least four years had longer telomeres—the protective caps on the ends of chromosomes—than people who do not meditate. Short telomeres are believed to be markers of accelerated aging. So lengthen those telomeres and make some time to meditate.
What’ll you’ll need: Your breath and ten minutes. Here’s how: Start with just ten minutes a day. An extra active mind needs a strong focal point, so opt for a breath-centered mediation to give your busy body something to do. Sit on a comfy pillow, and prop your back against a wall for extra support. With your eyes closed, breathe in through your nose for 8 counts, hold for 8 counts, and exhale for 8 counts. Repeat this cycle for 10 minutes. You’ll feel and look immediately refreshed.
3. THE HEADSTAND
In yoga, the headstand is referred to as the “The King” of all poses, and that’s probably because it’s the master of health benefits. Going upside down for just a few minutes a day can improve your overall brain function (intelligence and memory) due to increased blood circulation. The circulation sends fresh blood to the face and helps fight the unwanted effects of gravity. It also promotes hair growth by increasing circulation to the scalp. Some of us may still be intimidated by the thought of going upside down, but you really can just baby step your way there. Here’s our beginners technique.(Caution: Do not practice headstands if you have high or low blood pressure).
What you’ll need: A yoga mat: (2.) Stott Pilates And Yoga ($28)
Here’s how:
Place your yoga mat against a wall, kneel down in front of it, and place your interlocked fingers against the edge of the wall.
Put your head into the hollow of your palms, rise off the knees and take a step or two towards the wall.
Lift one leg over your head and place it against the wall. If you are a little unsure, ask a friend to hold the leg. Now, just kick the other leg up. Stay there for about 15 seconds–trying to remain relaxed.
To come out of the headstand, just lower one leg at a time. Again, if you feel unsure, ask your friend to hold one of your legs while you lower the other.
Start off in the headstand for about 15 seconds. Increase the time by 15 seconds every week until you are doing three minutes.
4. RED GINSENG
Red ginseng has long been used as a traditional medicinal herb in Korean and Chinese cultures. Several recent studies have now found scientific proof that this ancient herb actually directly reduced wrinkles in the skin thanks to its estrogen-like activity that directly fuels collagen production.
What you’ll need: (3.) Auragin Authentic Korean Red Ginseng ($36)
5. GREEN TEA CEREMONY
Green tea contains high levels of oligomeric proanthocyanidins – OPCs – some of the most potent antioxidants in the world, and hence it has been proven to slow down premature aging when consumed internally. To elevate the effects, make it a part of your lifestyle, incorporating a daily tea ceremony that will boost those potent antioxidants and deliver them consistently and consciously.
What you’ll need: A high-end green tea like (4.) Rishi Tea Organic Matcha Super Green ($14) and a powerful grade honey like (5.) Wedderspon 100% Raw Manuka Honey ($26).
Here’s how: Steep the tea for up to five minutes. Besides sweetening the tea with the honey, slather on a tablespoon of it directly to your face and let it sit for up to 15 minutes. Honey is rich with antioxidant and antibacterial properties that promote deep healing for the skin, restoring pH balance, and delivering a healthy glow. Turn off your phone and tune into your warm cup of tea, as you reap the benefits of anti-aging from the inside and the outside, simultaneously! As you sip, reflect on three things that you appreciate about yourself and your life. A happy face is a youthful face.
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