Healthy Skin Techniques based on Qi Practices

From a Qigong and Traditional Chinese Medical (TCM) perspective, there are two main areas that affect whether you have healthy skin- the lung system and the digestive system. On the digestive side, people who eat oily, greasy, fried and fatty foods tend to have more oily skin and are prone to increased pimples and wrinkles, whereas those with healthier diets consumed of vegetables, good protein and fats, as well as ample water intake have more glow to their skin and overall complexion.

In this article, we explore the factors of skin health as it pertains to Qi based theories and practice found in TCM and Qigong.

Important Factors for Healthy Skin

• Skin quality is influenced by the lung and digestive systems according to Qigong and Chinese medicine.
• Oily, greasy, fried, and fatty diets can lead to oily skin, increased pimples, and wrinkles, while healthier diets consisting of vegetables, quality protein, good fats, and adequate water intake can promote radiant skin.
• Deep breathing plays a crucial role in skin health by improving lung function, blood flow, and detoxification.
• Deep breathing also positively impacts the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, influencing digestion and detox.
• Qigong exercises emphasize slow movements in harmony with breath, benefiting overall health and skin.
• Tapping and massage exercises rooted in Qigong and Chinese medicine theory can stimulate digestion and detoxification.

Skin-Enhancing Exercises

1. Corners of the Mouth: Rub your hands together until warm, then use your hands to rub the corners of your mouth 36 times in each direction daily. Alternatively, use your index and middle fingers to tap these areas for about a minute. This stimulates digestive energy points, aiding digestion and potentially alleviating constipation.
2. Face Rubbing/Massage: Begin at the base of your nose and rub with your middle and index fingers up to the eyebrow area. Proceed to swipe across the forehead and down the cheeks with your whole hand. Before starting, warm your hands by rubbing them together. Repeat this exercise 5-7 times. This practice not only alleviates stuffiness and headaches but also helps reduce wrinkles and facial tension. Rubbing the face stimulates energy centers linked to the brain, promoting skin and nerve health. These facial points also connect to internal organs, enhancing circulation, digestion, and skin quality.
3. Rubbing the Back of the Hands: Gently rub the back of your hands with one hand on top of the other. This practice encourages skin rejuvenation and may help with aging spots. Aim for 1-3 minutes daily for optimal results.

Additional Tips for Healthy Skin

• Tea Consumption: Drinking tea, rich in polyphenols and ECGC compounds, aids digestion and helps eliminate oily fats from the body. These compounds also enhance skin tone and color. Tea supports weight management, reduces the risk of heart diseases, and adds a unique flavor to water, making it a refreshing choice.
• Balanced Diet: From a Chinese medical perspective, prioritizing lighter and milder foods is recommended. Fried and oily foods can lead to oily skin, hinder digestion, and increase the risk of heart disease. Opt for foods like porridge, vegetables, oatmeal, fruits, and fish to promote healthier skin and overall well-being.

Learn more about these techniques with our 1 on 1 Qigong classes or begin exploring high quality tea.