It only makes sense. We know that regular, consistent exercise results in a leaner, tighter and stronger body. Facial exercise is founded on that same belief – that working out facial muscles will tone, lift, and boost volume. As we mature, our skin loses elasticity and starts to sag. We can combat that with a diligent skin care regime and good nutrition as well as facial exercise and even facial yoga.
The human face is made up of more than 50 different muscles and, unlike most of the body, many of them are rarely used. By exercising facial muscles regularly, you stimulate circulation of blood to different areas of the face and replenish the oxygen supply in the muscles and skin. Improving blood flow supplies your skin cells with nutrients, stimulating skin cell regeneration and prevention of wrinkles. It also can release tension, reduce lines, and rejuvenate skin by encouraging a brighter complexion and glowing skin.
Facial yoga is focused on relaxing and toning the face. In the same way that yoga works areas of muscle tension, facial yoga is intended to counteract the effects of strained facial expressions to leave both the muscles and skin relaxed and refreshed. An example of facial yoga is rubbing your hands together to warm them and then placing your palms over closed eyes and leaving them there for a few minutes while you breathe deeply. This relieves tension from the eye area.
Here are some general tips when doing facial exercise and yoga:
Wash your hands before touching your face
Never aggressively pull or tug on the skin
Aim for 20 minutes 3-5 times per week at the same time
Moderation is key - going overboard with your facial exercises isn’t likely to help and may even increase unwanted results
Below is a quick routine for you to try. Experts say you will start seeing results of a regular facial exercise regiment in as little as three days, but three weeks will yield more noticeable results.
We can also help you along with your facial massage! At Bliss on Broadway, all of our customized facials include facial massage. We also offer microcurrent treatments and various massage therapies that include your face.
Bliss on Broadway offers full service treatments for your skin, body and mind. Call us at 562-439-4333 or visit www.blissonbroadway.com.
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Facial Exercises
Do four reps of each once a day.
Fish Lips
1. Suck in your cheeks like a fish, with your lips pursed
2. With your lips still pursed, smile as hard as you can (Try to relax every other part of your face, like your eyes, while doing this.)
3. Hold for 10 seconds
4. Relax
Kiss Face
1. Pout your lips like you’re about to kiss someone
2. Smile as hard as you can with your lips still pursed (Make sure to keep your eyes relaxed.)
3. Hold for 10 seconds
4. Relax
The Whistler
Part One
1. Make an “O” with your lips, like you’re going to whistle
2. Smile as hard as you can, with your lips still forward in the “O” shape
3. Hold for 10 seconds
4. Relax
5. Repeat three times
Part Two
1. Repeat steps one and two from Part One
2. Pump your cheek muscles up and down 12 times with your lips still in an “O” shape
3. Relax