Achieving a radiant glow doesn’t just happen on the surface, it’s a reflection of inner balance and well-being. Rooted in the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the path to luminous skin and a healthy glow emphasizes harmony within the body. By taking intentional steps at home with acupressure, diet, and herbs, and with the help of highly educated practitioners, you can nurture your glow from within.

Acupuncture + Acupuncture Facials: The Power of Precision

Acupuncture is more than just a remedy for aches and pains, it’s also a beauty secret. By stimulating specific points on the body and face, acupuncture promotes the flow of Qi (energy) and blood, supporting healthy, vibrant skin. Acupuncture facials take it a step further, targeting fine lines, sagging skin, and dullness. This non-invasive, holistic approach encourages collagen production and increases circulation, resulting in a naturally lifted and refreshed appearance.

Unlike quick-fix treatments, acupuncture facials offer lasting benefits that go beyond the surface. The body’s internal systems are brought into balance, reducing stress, improving sleep, and promoting overall well-being, all of which are reflected in the skin. It’s a holistic approach that’s becoming a sought-after alternative to more invasive beauty treatments. Unlike Botox or other toxic treatments, acupuncture facials are safe and an excellent alternative.

Acupressure Facial Massage: Daily Glow at Home

If you’re looking for an at-home way to boost your glow, acupressure and gua sha are your go-to techniques. Acupressure works similarly to acupuncture but uses gentle pressure instead of needles, making it accessible for daily self-care. By pressing specific points on the face and body, you can release tension, improve lymphatic drainage, and promote blood flow, all of which contribute to a brighter, healthier complexion.

Acupressure facials at home can be done with your hands during your skincare routine or with a gua sha to further enhance the benefits. Stimulate each point by massaging for 20-30 seconds while taking deep breaths. This small daily practice can leave your skin looking more refreshed and revitalized.

Diet: Beauty from the Inside Out

According to TCM, beauty and health start in the gut. A balanced diet is essential for nourishing your glow from within. Foods that support healthy digestion—like warming soups, whole grains, and seasonal fruits and vegetables—are considered "glow foods" in TCM. Avoiding overly processed, greasy, or cold foods helps maintain internal balance, which is reflected in the clarity of your skin.

Here are some glow-boosting foods to incorporate into your diet:

• Avocado: Rich in healthy fats, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, which keep the skin hydrated and supple. Avocados also contain vitamins E and C, powerful antioxidants that protect the skin from free radical damage.

• Salmon: An excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, salmon supports the skin’s natural oil barrier. It also contains astaxanthin, a carotenoid antioxidant that improves skin elasticity and reduces the appearance of fine lines.

• Berries: Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries are packed with antioxidants like vitamin C and anthocyanins, which promote collagen production and protect against free radical damage.

• Spinach: Leafy greens like spinach are rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as beta-carotene. These nutrients support collagen production, repair skin tissues, and protect against sun damage.

• Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds provide essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that nourish skin cells, promote hydration, and protect against oxidative stress.

• Sweet Potatoes: Packed with beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, sweet potatoes support skin cell turnover, helping to maintain a healthy, even complexion.

In addition to nutrient-rich foods, hydration is always essential for overall health and maintaining the skin’s moisture barrier, reducing dryness and flakiness. While drinking enough water is key year-round, in warmer seasons, you can also boost hydration by incorporating cooling foods with high water content, like cucumbers and watermelon, to support hydration from within.

Probiotics: The Gut-Skin Connection

A healthy gut is key to glowing skin, and probiotics play a major role in keeping your gut balanced. Probiotics are "good" bacteria that support your microbiome, which impacts everything from digestion to inflammation, both of which directly affect your skin. When your gut is in harmony, your skin reflects that balance with fewer breakouts, less redness, and a brighter, healthier glow.

You can support your gut health by incorporating probiotic-rich foods into your diet, such as:

• Kimchi: A Korean staple made from fermented vegetables, known for its gut-boosting lactic acid bacteria.

• Sauerkraut: Fermented cabbage that's rich in probiotics and fiber to support healthy digestion.

• Miso: A traditional Japanese paste made from fermented soybeans, perfect for soups and dressings.

• Kefir: A tangy, drinkable yogurt loaded with a diverse range of probiotic strains.

• Yogurt (with live cultures): Look for “live and active cultures” on the label for maximum probiotic benefits.

In addition to fermented foods, you can also take a probiotic supplement for consistent gut support. These supplements are an easy way to ensure you're getting a variety of beneficial strains, even on days when your meals don't include fermented foods. For best results, consult with a health professional or an ORA acupuncturist, who can offer personalized guidance on which probiotics are best for you.

Herbs: Nature’s Secret to Radiance

Herbs have been a core part of TCM for thousands of years, and they’re still used today to enhance skin health and overall vitality. Herbs like goji berries, reishi mushrooms, and ginseng are known for their anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties. They’re often found in teas, supplements, and skincare products aimed at promoting a luminous complexion.

For inflammation in the skin, ORA’s Relieve & Recover tea works to alleviate discomfort and support glowing skin. ORA’s acupuncturists also recommend other herbs that are tailored to your unique needs, ensuring personalized support for your inner and outer glow.

When applied topically, TCM herbs work wonders for the skin. ORA’s OMAD masks harness the power of TCM-inspired ingredients like frankincense, white water-lily, and Rhodiola Rosea. These potent herbs reduce inflammation, smooth fine lines, and increase skin elasticity, giving you that “lit-from-within” look. Incorporating masks like these into your skincare routine is a simple but powerful way to infuse your skin with TCM’s wisdom.

Your Glow Ritual

Radiance isn’t a one-time achievement, it’s a practice. By weaving TCM’s holistic techniques into your daily routine, you’ll cultivate a glow that’s truly from within. Acupuncture and facial acupuncture sessions provide powerful, long-term results, while acupressure and gua sha offer quick, daily boosts. A TCM-inspired diet nourishes your body from the inside, and herbal remedies like ORA’s OMAD masks deliver targeted results for your skin.

There’s no need to chase the glow when you can cultivate it from within. By following the time-tested wisdom of TCM, you’re nurturing your skin and supporting your overall health and well-being.