Stress from office pressure or family conflicts is not uncommon. Chronic stress often shows on the skin. Dark circles below the eyes, dull-looking skin, these are some of the common signs of stress. Most of the time, it is also accompanied by a lack of sleep or only a few hours of sleep and staying up late using mobile phones.
Ayurveda states that good sleep at night is a must for radiant and healthy skin. Otherwise, the skin will look tired, dark circles may appear around the eyes, and fine lines can result. Ayurveda says, “Nidra balam, pushtim, jnanam, sukham cha dadati”-good sleep provides the body with strength, nourishment, knowledge, and happiness.
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Why is sleep important?
The body repairs itself while sleeping. The production of new skin cells and the generation of collagen take place. These processes are closely related to good, glowing skin. Insufficient sleep interferes with these functions, and over time, signs of ageing begin to appear.
Sleep increases the production of collagen, preventing wrinkles. Good sleep helps to maintain skin moisture; conversely, sleep loss can cause skin dryness.
Improved blood circulation during sleep delivers oxygen and nutrients to the skin, leaving the face fresh in the morning. Enough rest also reduces the release of stress hormones, such as cortisol, which keeps the skin bright and healthy.
How much sleep is required at different ages for glowing skin?
Adults require 7–8 hours of sleep daily. This amount of sleep has to be adequate, continuous, and without stress. If you lie in your bed, stressed or worried, your brain can't relax completely; therefore, the sleep is no longer as good for you.
Teenagers should get 8–10 hours, while children need 10–12 hours of sleep. Remember, quality sleep is far more important than quantity.
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According to Ayurveda, one should go to bed before 10 PM. Staying up late can harm the skin. Warm milk or Triphala before bed can help to soothe the mind. Sleeping in a dim, quiet place improves the quality of sleep. Adding a pinch of turmeric or nutmeg to warm milk at night, along with massaging mustard oil on the feet before bedtime, can help. Meditation before sleep soothes the mind. Also, caffeine intake and mobile usage are a complete no-no at this time, as these disturb sleep.
