Congested Skin and Emotions: A Connection?

Congested Skin and Emotions: A Connection?

You know the feeling—you wake up, look in the mirror, and see a complexion that looks tired, puffy, and blemish-prone. Ugh. Not only does congestion affect the way our skin looks, but it can also have an impact on the way we feel. In Chinese Medicine, congested skin is often associated with feelings of frustration, irritability, and even anger. If you're struggling with breakouts or feeling a little crabby lately, read on to learn more about the connection between congested skin and emotions.

How our skin affects our emotions

In Chinese Medicine, there is a belief that our organs are connected to certain emotions. For example, the liver is connected to anger, while the lungs are linked to grief. Congestion happens when there is an accumulation of toxins in the body, which can lead to blockages and 'stagnation'—a feeling of being stuck. When it comes to the skin, this can manifest as breakouts, puffiness, dark circles under the eyes, or a dull complexion. So if you're feeling angry or upset and notice that your skin is acting up as well, there could be a connection.

What you can do about it

Fortunately, there are things you can do to clear your complexion and reduce feelings of frustration. Start by taking a close look at your skincare routine. If you're using products that are too harsh or drying, they could be stripping your skin of its natural oils and causing inflammation. Switch to gentler products that will cleanse without dehydrating or irritating your skin. You might also want to consider adding an herbal supplement like milk thistle or dandelion root to your diet; these plants help support liver function and can promote detoxification. Finally, make sure you're getting enough sleep and managing stress levels—both of these things can take a toll on our skin (and our mood)!

Do you find that your emotions affect your skin—or vice versa? Learning more about the connection between these two things can help you take better care of yourself both physically and emotionally. Pay attention to what makes your skin feel congested or irritated and make adjustments to your skincare routine accordingly. If you're noticing a correlation between your mood and your complexion, try adding some detoxifying foods and herbs to your diet or taking some time for self-care activities like yoga or meditation. By taking care of yourself both inside and out, you can help keep congested skin—and negative emotions—at bay!