Mid-Week Beauty Masterclass: Face Mapping

They say the eyes are a window to your soul... fact.  But did they ever tell you that your face is a window to your general health, both inside and outside your body as well as your mental state?  The aim of this post is to give you an idea about face mapping and how it can help diagnose certain disorders just but analyzing the condition of that specific part of the face.  Having said that, always consult your doctor with regards medical advice.

Some General Info

Eastern medics, such as Chinese, have used face reading as a diagnostic tool for more than 2000 years.  So, next time you look in the mirror, take a few more minutes (preferably bare faced) and analyze the different  ares accordingly.  This post will also help you to make minor changes where needed to lead you to a more beautiful and healthy you, inside and outside!

Chinese medicine is based on the idea that there is a subtle flow of energy through the universe and our bodies.  It's thought this energy links parts of the face with particular organs, so inner health disorders can be detected.

Face reading has been used in China since the Confucian era (551 - 479BC) to help predict health problems and prevent illness.  

Chinese face reading also analyses the face shape.  Different shapes correspond with the five elements of Chinese philosophy - water, wood, fire, earth and metal, and are linked with character traits and emotions.

The practitioner also looks at the facial features and checks for harmony between hills (bones) and rivers (soft tissue).

Actual Face Mapping

Here's what a face map really looks like and what all the zones signify:

Zones 1 & 3: Traditionally, both of these zones are recognized as 'sisters' to the bladder and digestive system.  If you breakout frequently in this area, it might be a sign that you need to improve your elimination by drinking more water and eating more 'whole' foods.  You may also want to consider a detox period by cutting down on alcohol and caffeine, but don't expect an instant clear up a breakouts are a common side effect of detoxing.  Also, if possible, try and reduce stress as it may play havoc with your digestion.

Zone 2: The middle of the forehead, between the eyebrows, is related to the liver.  Congestion in this zone can indicate over consumption of alcohol, rich foods, and possibly a food allergy (such as lactose intolerance).  Also, cut back on alcohol and try to relax with calming activities such as meditation; stress is bad for your liver and frown lines.

Zones 4 & 10: The ears are a highly sensitive area related to the kidneys.  If you notice that your ears are very hot, you might be stressing them out - drink plenty of plain water and cut down on caffeine and alcohol.

Zones 5 & 9: The cheeks often give an accurate glimpse into any respiratory distress.  Smokers or people suffering from allergies generally experience fine, broken capillaries or congestion in this area.

Zones 6 & 8: The eyes are truly a window to the body's health because they are related to the kidneys.  Dark circles, while often hereditary, are made worse by dehydration and poor elimination.  Dark circles may also be a sign that you are working too hard or getting too little sleep.  Try to cut back on coffee, alcohol and rich, salty foods and instead eat more complex carbohydrates such as wholegrains.  The latter help your body release serotonin, a hormone that helps combat stress and its effects.  Also, increase the amount of sleep you get and take a well-earned break!  Furthermore, a blue-green bruised appearance at the inner corners of the eyes may indicate an imbalance in your pancreas (an organ that aids digestions and helps maintain blood sugar levels).  Avoid skipping meals as this can lead to a dip in blood sugar levels.

Zone 7: A reddened nose can indicate heightened blood pressure, or the early stages of rosacea.  Congestion around the upper lip can occur of you use comedogenic lipsticks and liners.  Reduce salt intake and eat more potassium rich foods such as bananas, fish, nuts and seeds to lower blood pressure and quit smoking - try to be more active and get your blood pressure checked regularly by your GP.  Skin irritations on the nose and lower cheeks may indicate a lung or bronchial imbalance.  Cut down on dairy foods, which can cause congestion.  Snack on apples, tomatoes and red grapes - they contain the antioxidant quercetin, which is believed to improve lung function.  Also, get plenty of fresh air.  Yoga breathing exercises can help stimulate your lungs.

Zones 11 & 13: If you've had extensive dental surgery done, you might notice a break-out along the jaw line and near the ears.

Zone 12: Breakouts or unusual hair growth can indicate hormonal imbalance, possibly caused by extreme stress.  Premenstrual breakouts are also very common on the chin.  If the sides of the chin are white and blotchy with congested pores, this may be due to a possible yeast infection.  Avoid foods containing sugars and yeasts.  Boost the immune system with plenty of exercise and zinc-rich foods, such as wheatgerm and liver, plus loads of vitamin C.  Try a probiotic supplement or live yoghurt to help re-establish the intestinal flora (beneficial bacteria in the gut).

Zone 14: Don't forget to take a look at your neck - its skin is just as fragile as that on your face, so it definitely needs the benefits of moisturisation and sun protection. 

Last but not least, do not ignore dry, cracked lips with spots at the corners as these can signify stomach acidity.  Avoid spicy and fatty foods as these stimulate acidity.  Alcohol, tension and coffee may also cause problems.  Have several small meals rather than two large ones.  Chew food well, eat slowly and try to relax as you eat.

That's it with regards face mapping ladies! I hope you found this post interesting and now, you can have a closer look at your faces and identify any possible underlying health problems.  If you see anything abnormal, always consult your GP for medical advice.