Puffy eyes can result from water retention, dehydration, allergies, or aging. Another common cause is eye strain due to excessive screen time or insufficient rest.
While puffy eyes can be annoying, yoga offers a natural and refreshing approach to alleviate this issue and enhance overall eye health. Though not a complete cure, yoga can be an effective method to diminish puffiness and improve your appearance.
When do people get puffy eyes?
Puffy eyes occur when fluid accumulates in the tissues surrounding your eyes. The thin skin under the eyes has minimal connective tissue, making puffiness more noticeable. Factors such as lack of sleep, allergies, high salt intake, dehydration, and eye strain contribute to this condition. As we age, the muscles around the eyes weaken, further contributing to puffiness.
Improves blood circulation
Regular yoga practice improves blood circulation and overall well-being. According to the International Journal of Yoga, certain poses increase blood flow to the face, including the eye area. This can help flush out stagnant fluid that causes puffiness. Although promising, more research is necessary to confirm these benefits conclusively.
Reducing stress levels
Yoga is well-known for its stress-relieving properties. The Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine highlights that regular yoga practice helps manage stress and anxiety. Specific yoga poses and breathing techniques reduce stress, which in turn, can alleviate puffy eyes. However, further studies are needed to substantiate these claims.
Promoting lymphatic drainage
The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in removing waste and excess fluid from the body. The Cold Spring Harbor Perspective in Medicine Journal notes that certain yoga poses can stimulate this system, promoting better drainage around the eyes and reducing puffiness. Again, more research is needed to fully understand these effects.
Yoga poses to remove puffiness under your eyes
Seated forward bend: Paschimottanasana has a calming effect on the nervous system. The forward bend relieves tension in the back, neck, and shoulders, reducing stress and anxiety.
Downward facing dog: This pose provides instant stress relief. Chronic stress can lead to various skin issues, including puffy eyes.
Child’s pose: Balasana is ideal after a long day or intense workout. It relaxes muscles and promotes a good night’s sleep, indirectly helping to reduce puffiness.
