At about the age of 52, I started to see very visible signs of aging. Wrinkles around eyes, loss of elasticity and changes in my skin texture. And so my quest began to find natural anti-aging solutions. One ingredient that has been a buzz word in the skincare industry is hyaluronic acid.
Hyaluronic acid makes your skin flexible. It helps skin stretch and flex and reduces skin wrinkles and visible lines. Hyaluronic acid is also proven to help wounds heal faster and can reduce scarring. The Age Repair range of AgePure Products has Hyaluronic acid as an important ingredient along with other ingredients that specificially target and fight aging on the outside.
Until recently I had no idea how Hyaluronic acid could be produced in our bodies. Totally by chance, I discovered Yin Yoga when I was searching the net for restorative yoga. I have always loved yoga but yin yoga is different. You hold a pose more comfortably but for longer. I began doing a YouTube practice daily (video attached below). The instructor mentioned that one of the benefits of holding a pose for longer was the natural production of hyaluronic acid internally and he called it the "fountain of youth". This intrigued me to find out more and it also motivated me to continue. I get lost in my practice these days and do sessions anywhere from 45 to 90 minutes. "Yin yoga is a natural and effective way to increase the production of hyaluronic acid. Yin yoga targets the connective tissues such as the ligaments, tendons, fascia, and bones in passive poses that are held anywhere between 3 to 5 minutes."
My absolute favourite pose has to be the modified Reclining Hero Pose with feet tucked under my buttocks (picture above). I do variations of this pose but this is my favourite. When I started, I was so inflexible that I could only sit with my feet tucked under. Then I began to extend my hands back onto the floor, then my elbows and after 3 weeks of trying everyday I could eventually lie back. I was so happy when I achieved this that I made sure I continued every day. I started holding the pose for 90 seconds and currently I can do this pose for 10 minutes.
Benefits of this pose: The Reclining Hero Pose increases mobility and blood flow in the hip flexors, thighs, and knees, which can help to relieve sciatica (when the scaitic nerve is pinched and you experience moderate to severe pain in lower back, buttock and down your leg). It provides relief for aching and tired legs. In addition this pose also strengthens the ankles and improves flexibility in the spine.
I am completely hooked and I try to never miss a day. In the coming weeks will share my other poses with you. To begin your practice, if you are keen to start, I would recommend the video that started my journey... (if you have existing medical issues then please seek professional advise before embarking on any exercise program)
I love looking for natural anti-aging solutions. For me aging is daunting at times but it is also fun and a bit of an adventure too. It is my lifestyle and I love sharing my findings so others can enjoy the aging process positively.
Lots of love
Asha
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