As a Holistic Health Coach, I am a huge proponent of preventive medicine. A very practical approach to thwarting disease is learning the art of Facial Diagnosis. Facial Diagnosis is part of an ancient Oriental holistic system, where one can detect physical problems before they arise. According to this theory, only a few moments in front of the mirror can tell you a lot about your health.
This holistic approach to medicine believes the face is an indicator of health or disease. By observing skin conditions and changes, one can determine internal imbalances, and making healthy changes in diet or lifestyle, before disease sets in. Each area of the face is said to correspond to an internal body organ. For example, the lungs and skin, liver and eyes, and stomach and muscles are all sister organs. Disharmony in that inner area will, in turn, lead to a change in the complexion, texture, or moisture of the corresponding facial area.
The main principle behind Oriental medicine is yin and yang. This theory believes that everything is in a continuous state of change. Yin represents expansion, less activity, and slower speeds, while yang represents contraction, activity, and heat.
The following information is not intended for medical diagnosis, but merely to illustrate the Chinese approach to facial diagnosis. Please note: The conditions associated with the facial areas have been condensed for the article.
Forehead:
Linked to digestion. The upper forehead links to the kidneys and bladder, and the lower forehead corresponds to the intestines. In early adulthood, horizontal wrinkles on the forehead are caused by the consumption of excess liquids (including all beverages, fruit juice, and dairy products), especially when combined with excess fats and oils.
Eyes:
Linked with the liver. Colors around the eyes change daily according to our daily health. The reddish color appears when the blood capillaries are expanded from excessive yin foods & drinks including fruits, juices, alcohol, & sugar. Yellowish appears when the liver and gallbladder are over functioning. Can be caused by too much cheese and other dairy products and also by excessive certain root vegetables, such as carrots.
Between the Eyes:
Linked with the liver. A diet that is high in fat and food that is consumed late at night may cause this area to show sensitization, redness, or flaking. Deep lines caused by liver stress may also be visible; this is commonly known as the “wine and dine” area.
Under the Eyes:
Linked with the kidneys. Bags under eyes: soft (caused by excess water intake) or hard (excess fat intake). Drinking too much liquid: kidneys are overworked & can’t discharge properly, liquid accumulates under the eyes.
Nose:
Linked with the lungs. Naturally large and open nostrils indicate strong lungs. Smaller or flaring nostrils indicate lung stress, allergies, and asthma. Numerous blackheads and oiliness over the nose indicate Yin energy, which is prone to colds and bronchitis. Redness, broken capillaries, and puffiness over the nose indicate Yang energy, which is sensitive to allergies, respiratory stress, and sinus problems (hay fever, sensitivity to smoke, etc.).
Cheeks:
Linked with the lung area. Broken capillaries across the upper cheeks indicate a tendency to allergies and sinus congestion.
Mouth:
Linked with the stomach and large intestine. The upper lip and cracking/dry lips are linked with stomach/GI stress. A turned upper lip indicates stomach acid, indigestion, or a nervous stomach. The lower lip links with the large intestine and a pouty, full lower lip can be associated with constipation and poor elimination.
Conclusion
A healthy, balanced diet is the principal source of our vitality and health, while a poor diet is the main cause of sickness. One way to stay healthy is to eat local, wholly organic, and seasonal foods. Proper digestion is another, and it begins in the mouth. Start by chewing your food thoroughly, 25 to 30 times. Exercise is also important, moving your body to relieve stress. And the next time you look in the mirror, look for signs of distress so that you can make the adjustments to get your body back on track.
If you are looking for support to balance your diet and lifestyle, schedule your health consultation today.
Sources: Your Body Never Lies & Your Face Never Lies by Michio Kushi