Pimples are lesions that appear on your skin due to a condition called acne. Acne is a skin disorder caused by inflammation of the sebaceous glands in your skin. Specific poses practiced in yoga, an ancient form of holistic health, may help control some of the suspected causes of acne, including hormones and stress. Consult your doctor before practicing yoga as a treatment for acne.
Bound Angle Pose
Bound angle pose, or baddhakonasana, is recommended by yoga master B.K.S. Iyengar for those with acne. To perform this pose, come to a seated position on the floor. Bring the soles of your feet together and allow your knees to fall out. Place your hands on the floor behind you and sit with your back erect. Hold the pose for 30 seconds. If the stretch is painful, place yoga blocks under your knees.
Cobra Pose
According to Mukunda Stiles, author of "Ayurvedic Yoga Therapy," cobra pose, or bhujangasana, may help balance the energy in your body that could be causing acne. Lie on your stomach, bend your elbows and place your hands under your shoulders. Keep your elbows tucked into your body and gently lift your chest. Keep your legs and feet on the floor and your neck in line with your spine. Hold the pose for 30 seconds.
Half Moon Pose
Ardha chandrasana, Sanskrit for half moon pose, is a standing balancing pose that may help in the treatment and prevention of acne. Stand with your feet 4 feet apart. Turn your right toes toward the right and place all your weight on the right foot. Place your right hand on the floor 1 foot above your right toes and lift your left leg off the floor until it is at a 90-degree angle with your right leg. Stretch your left arm, gaze toward the ceiling and hold the pose for 20 seconds. Repeat on the other side. If balancing is hard for you in this pose, use a yoga block and stand near a wall for assistance.
Headstand
Headstand, known as sirsasana in Sanskrit, is an advanced inverted pose that requires dedicated practice. Headstand balances the hormones and reduces stress, which is why it can be helpful in combating acne. Practice headstand under the guidance of an experienced yoga teacher to avoid injury to your neck. Once this pose is safely mastered, practice daily for a minimum of three minutes.
References
- "Yoga, The Path to Holistic Health"; B.K.S. Iyengar; 2001
- "Ayurvedic Yoga Therapy;" Mukunda Stiles, 2007
- Mayo Clinic: Acne
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