We know that what we eat (or don’t eat), whether or not we are getting an adequate amount of sleep, how much water we are drinking and stress all contribute to the health and good looks of our skin.
But what about temperament? Each of us has a personality that has grown and developed over the course of our lives, but temperament is something we are born with. It just goes to figure that it would have a pretty big influence on our lives.
Which temperament are you?
There are four temperaments, developed by the ancient Greeks, based on the elements of fire, earth, air and water. Choleric is associated with fire and people with this temperament are leaders, radiating confidence and power. The temperament associated with air is called Sanguine and characterizes an optismistic, joyful person. Phlegmatic is associated with water. These people usually lead a consistent, structured and predictable life. And the temperament associated with earth is Melancholic, characterizing a caring, compassionate, sensitive type.
We are all probably a little of a few, or maybe all, of these. But one particular type should stand out as predominant. When our lives are in balance we can enjoy the positive aspects of our temperament type. But when sick, run down or under stress our behavior may reflect the more extreme characteristics of our individual temperament.
For instance, a loving Melancholic has the tendency to become introverted and overly sensitive when not grounded. Choleric has a tendency toward anger when under stress. This shows up in our skin as well. Someone with a dominant Phlegmatic temperament may be prone to dull, dry skin. A Choleric’s skin may become flushed or irritated.
How do you factor this into skin care?
This is a unique and fun way to look at our skin and ourselves. For more information on the subject, and other tips to restoring rhythm and beauty to your life, get ahold of a copy of Awakening Beauty the Dr. Hauschka Way by Susan West Kurz.
Image: red twolips at Flickr.com, Creative Commons license.