Good Complexion - In this Case, Judge a Book by It's Cover

[Josh Zimmer]

http://www.harmonyhealthsrq.com

We're always told NOT to judge a book by its cover. When it comes to skin, however, ignore that advice.

Why is that? From a Chinese Medicine perspective, the answer's simple. We learn that the exterior reflects the interior.

For example, the eyes are considered windows on the soul. Their degree of shine and vitality reveals our physical and emotional strength. Other important indicators are nails, muscle tone, hair texture and lip color.

Then there's the skin. It is hands down one of the most helpful tools in determining the points, herbal formulas and other modalities we'll use in the course of a treatment. The state of color, lustre, smoothness and firmness offers clues about body temperature, blood health, toxic exposure and overall Qi. Some examples we learn from - with variations - are:

Paleness = lack of Qi and blood flow
Pale and Shiny = cold
Dryness = insufficient blood flow - often combined with heat
Itchiness = lack of blood flow - often combined with heat
Redness = heat
Acne = heat

And on and on ...

The skin doesn't lie. If vibrant skin is your desire, then your general health must be vibrant. All the specialty creams and lotions in the world can't guarantee a clear, lustrous complexion. Do you think Cindy Crawford, poster child for a "revolutionary" skin tonifier I can't remember, the name of, simply applies it to her face every morning and then calls it a day? No way. You can bet your life she's exercising regularly and eating a healthy diet.

Another helpful habit is acupuncture and Chinese Medicine. They form a holistic lifestyle system addressing diet, exercise and emotional health. They support all the factors behind smooth, firm, shiny skin, such as muscle strengthening and relaxation, good blood flow, balanced neurotransmitter flow and strong hormone levels. Combined with one of the various cosmetic acupuncture protocols out there, you can really give your complexion a boost with these ancient techniques.

Don't forget the other side of the coin. Cosmetic applications have a role; the Chinese have used them for centuries.

But whatever approach you opt for, pamper your skin by taking good care of you bodies.

[Josh Zimmer]

Thanks!

[Charmaine Tincher]

This was a great article, Thank you as we are what we Eat and drink for sure. Exercise keeps the blood flowing through our organs and feeds them to keep them healthy. When they are happy our eyes are smilin and sparkeling...:-) Besides eating heathy and exercising I do supplement as we cannot possibly get everything we need from the foods we eat. I love Tru-Blue with over 50% Resveratrol, blueberries etc... You know us Babyboomers...we will fight the aging process to the bitter end. Go Blue www.goingbluemovement.com