Acupuncture, exercise, inner wellness: A holistic path to radiance

True beauty transcends what meets the eye; it reflects our inner health. While we often focus on external beauty routines, the real secret to radiance lies in a holistic approach that nurtures both body and mind. Dr. Zara Dadi, a medical cosmetologist, aesthetician, and founder-director of The Clinic in Mumbai, explains, “Our skin mirrors our internal health. While we may think of ‘skincare’ as applying serums and creams, it is much more than that. Any imbalance in your body—whether hormonal, nutritional, or physiological—will manifest on your skin. Therefore, I always recommend a holistic approach to skincare.”
How acupuncture contributes to holistic radiance:
Acupuncture focuses on restoring this balance, stimulating collagen production, and promoting natural skin firming. When the body’s energy pathways are aligned, the face reflects this harmony with a smoother, more radiant complexion.
Jasmine Modi, acupuncturist and founder of Acushastra Pvt. Ltd, shares, “Acupuncture teaches us that our inner health reflects on our outer appearance. Its facial rejuvenation treatments emphasise that beauty begins from within. While outer skincare, such as moisturisers and serums, may be helpful, they are superficial if not supported by internal health.”
She further suggests, “A great way to enhance this connection is through facial muscle workouts, which promote lymphatic drainage, lifting, and contouring. Regular stimulation of these muscles helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles, leading to a more youthful, vibrant appearance. To maintain firm and glowing skin, it’s important to balance the energy in your face.”
The role of exercise in achieving radiance:
When you care for yourself internally, it naturally radiates externally through your skin, mental well-being, and overall health.
Drishti Chhabria, founder & chief experience officer at Orangetheory Fitness India, explains, “Exercise offers numerous benefits, such as improving mood, balancing hormones, relieving stress, and enhancing overall health and bodily functions. Not only does physical activity make you feel better internally, but it also plays a pivotal role in how you look. On a surface level, exercise boosts blood circulation, making your skin appear healthier, while also toning your body and muscles. Sweating during workouts helps flush toxins from the body, and staying hydrated ensures your skin remains plump and radiant.”
“On a deeper level, exercise positively affects your daily life by improving concentration, memory, and creativity, all contributing to inner well-being. Physical activity also helps manage stress and improve sleep quality, both essential for maintaining balanced skin and body health. Adequate sleep, especially after exercise, prevents premature aging and stimulates hormones that restore balance in the body. Additionally, the endorphins released during exercise help manage stress and improve mental health, further promoting healthier skin and body,” she adds.
Proper nutrition for a healthy skin:
Healthy nutrition is key to maintaining good skin.
– Inputs by Dr. Zara Dadi
Inner wellness and its role in maintaining Radiance:
Today, the definition of beauty must encompass inner wellness, when the mind, body, and soul are in harmonious health, and beauty becomes the result of our lifestyle choices.
Sharmilee Kapur, co-founder & director of Atmantan Wellness Centre, shares, “To achieve beauty beyond skin deep, it’s essential to consciously focus on gut health, stress levels, sleep, and movement. Improved gut health positively impacts mental well-being by boosting digestion and immunity, helping us feel good from the inside out. Aim to consume natural plant-based foods while avoiding sugar, salt, and refined flour found in processed foods. Your meals should include healthy fats, probiotics, prebiotics, and micronutrients from fruits and vegetables.”
“Another must-do is what we call ‘beauty sleep.’ Aim to sleep between 10 pm and 8 am, getting 8+ hours every night. This will help you not only look great but also feel great. Sleep is when the body heals and regenerates, so let the body do what it does best,” she adds.