Many people across the globe experience anxiety and stress. Chronic stress which continues for long periods, can negatively affect both your mind and body. Often, therapy and medicines are used in modern therapy and they can be helpful. More people are now attracted to Ayurveda for a simple and comprehensive way to care for their minds.
How Ayurveda Understands Anxiety and Stress
In Ayurveda, three doshas called Vata, Pitta and Kapha determine the state of someone’s mental health. Anxiety generally results from a problem in the Vata dosha which oversees movement, communication and the nervous system. If Vata is imbalanced, it may result in being restless, feeling fearful, having trouble sleeping, and a mind that constantly races. Stress may result from a Pitta or Vata imbalance, depending on how it affects a person individually.
Ayurvedic Herbs That Support Calm and Focus
Ayurveda uses time-tested herbs to restore balance and strengthen the nervous system. Here are some of the most commonly used herbs for anxiety and stress:
- Ashwagandha: Known for reducing cortisol levels and promoting relaxation
- Brahmi: Improves memory, calms the mind, and helps manage mental fatigue
- Jatamansi: Acts as a natural sedative and supports deep sleep
- Shankhpushpi: Strengthens brain function and reduces emotional tension
- Tagara: A calming herb that is especially useful in cases of insomnia
These herbs can be taken as powders, capsules, or in warm teas. Always consult an Ayurvedic practitioner to determine the right herbs and dosages based on your body type.
Diet and Lifestyle Adjustments Based on Ayurveda
Taking part in Ayurveda helps reduce anxiety and stress. Hatha yoga helps to stabilize, feed and soothe both the body and the mind.
Foods to Include:
- Warm, cooked meals with healthy fats like ghee and sesame oil
- Lightly spiced vegetables and whole grains
- Herbal teas made from tulsi, chamomile, or fennel
- Soothing fruits like bananas and stewed apples
Foods to Avoid:
- Caffeine, alcohol, and refined sugar
- Raw or cold foods
- Highly processed or packaged items
For an ideal lifestyle, Ayurveda recommends having a steady routine that repeats every day. Having a routine for sleeping, eating and using electronics in the evening helps maintain good mental health.
Effective Ayurvedic Therapies for Stress Relief
Releasing tension and calming the nervous system are part of the body-based therapies used in Ayurveda. Some common treatment methods are:
- Abhyanga is a warm oil massage applied all over the body helps soothe the nervous system and control Vata.
- Shirodhara uses a stream of warm oil on the forehead to help relax the mind and ease body tension.
- Applying herbal oils through the nose is meant to clear the head and create a sense of peace.
- Applying Swedana herbal steam to help the body rid of toxins and relax its muscles
Usually, these Ayurveda treatments in Bangalore come together as part of Panchakarma which is the deeper detox process provided by an expert.
Yoga and Breathwork for Mental Stability
Movement and breath are powerful tools in Ayurvedic healing. Specific yoga postures and breathing exercises can help regulate energy and settle the mind.
Recommended Yoga Poses:
- Child’s Pose (Balasana)
- Legs-Up-the-Wall (Viparita Karani)
- Forward bends and gentle twists
Breathing Techniques:
- Nadi Shodhana: Alternate nostril breathing to balance energy
- Bhramari: Humming breath to quiet the mind
- Diaphragmatic breathing: Deep, slow breathing to activate the parasympathetic nervous system
What Science Says About Ayurvedic Remedies
Tests and studies in medicine are now confirming what Ayurveda has preached for many years. Ashwagandha is believed by scientists to reduce cortisol which is known to cause stress. Results of tests on Brahmi indicate an increase in memory and a decrease in anxiety. Even scientific research demonstrates that using meditation and yoga can make it easier to manage your emotions and stress.
Conclusion
With Ayurvedic methods, people are able to manage anxiety and stress. Using Ayurvedic herbs and various therapies, alternative medicine brings back balance to the body and helps maintain it for a long time.
