Let's face it... nothing is better than a good skin day. To see that beautiful glow on your skin, reflecting the beautiful glow of your essence from within. When we feel at ease, in the flow and balanced on the inside, it becomes a reflection that people see on the outside. So, one of the best ways to keep your skin looking healthy, vibrant and glowing is to first tend to your nervous system.
You brush and floss your teeth every day to prevent cavities. You wash your hair to keep it clean. So why don't you get your spine checked regularly? Your nervous system needs tending to, so that you can optimize your health, keep inflammation markers low and to slow down premature aging.
Nervous system regulation plays a crucial role in maintaining skin health. The nervous system controls the functions of the skin, including blood flow, sensation, and the release of certain hormones that affect the skin's appearance and function.
Stress and other factors that disrupt nervous system regulation can lead to various skin issues, such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and premature aging. Therefore, maintaining a healthy nervous system through stress management, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep is essential for promoting skin health.
Having a nervous system dysregulation influences the amount of cortisol that is pumped through the body. If you are constantly in a state of high/chronic stress you may see signs of it in your facial skin and appearance. It could show up as...
Weight gain that gives the face a puffier and/or rounded look
Wrinkles - the collagen production is affected which create premature aging
Bags Under the Eyes - again collagen production suffers and the skin starts to sag
Acne- cortisol activated oil production in excess and the microbiome could be out of balance
Hair Loss - excess cortisol levels puts the hair follicles into a resting state and hindering the ability for growth
Hair growth in areas that usually don't grow hair
Stress can have a significant impact on the health of your skin. Here are three studies that support this claim:
1. A study published in the journal Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology found a clear link between stress and skin conditions such as acne. The researchers found that stress can stimulate the release of hormones that lead to increased oil production in the skin, leading to the development of acne lesions. The study also found that stress-induced inflammation can exacerbate existing skin conditions, making them more difficult to treat.
2. Another study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology found that stress can impair the skin's barrier function, leading to increased water loss and a compromised ability to protect against environmental aggressors. This can result in dry, sensitive skin that is more prone to irritation and damage.
3. A study conducted by researchers at Stanford University found that stress can accelerate the aging process of the skin. The researchers found that stress-induced inflammation can lead to the breakdown of collagen and elastin, two proteins that are essential for maintaining the skin's firmness and elasticity. This can lead to the development of fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin.
Overall, these studies provide strong evidence that stress can have a negative impact on the health of your skin, leading to a variety of skin conditions and accelerating the aging process. It is important to manage stress effectively through relaxation techniques, exercise, and mindfulness practices to maintain healthy skin.
Guiding our bodies out of chronic stress and into homeostasis is not only going to benefit your skin routine, but your health and wellness as a whole. If your skin is feeling the pressure of too much stress, then be certain that it is happening in other parts of the body as well.
Your nervous system needs balance, harmony and ease. So, making small changes daily will make a big difference over time. Things you can do that your body will LOVE YOU MORE FOR....
Take time to REST and practice Self Care
Move Your Body Daily - Workout/ Somatic/ Dancing
Create healthy boundaries in your relationships and with yourself
Listen to the needs of your body
Get out of your head and more into your body
Let go of toxic people, situations and relationship out of your life
Clean up your sleep routine
Take time to get outside and into nature
Have a nervous system healing practice that focuses on dropping the stress and tension patterns out of your body
I hope this gives you some insights and ways to manage life with greater effectiveness. At Moon Healing Studio, we are on a mission to help people feel empowered and create the possibility of transformation with more love, inner peace and feeling really good in the body and in life. Please reach out for more information or to schedule your complimentary 'Clarity Consult' with Melissa Moon at info@mlmoonstudio.com.