In ayurveda stress is seen as an imbalance of the three doshas: vata, pitta and kapha disrupting both mind and body.
- Vata aggravation often leads to anxiety and insomnia
- Pitta imbalance may cause anger and irritability.
- Kapha disturbance may bring lethargy and lack of motivation.
Ayurveda stress management works by balancing the three imbalanced doshas through herbal formulation, daily routines, ayurvedic therapies and dietary adjustments.
Cause of Stress and Anxiety
- Eating Habits and Irregular Meal Time: absence of breakfast and overdosing on caffeine causes an imbalance in agni (digestive fire) which further leads to instability in mind.
- Inactive Way of Life: absence of regular movements, stops the flow of prana thus can cause increase in the anxiety levels.
- Presence of Environmental Toxins: air and the processed food causes Ama (metabolic waste).
Symptoms of Stress and Anxiety
- The primary symptom by which you can recognise that you are under stress is lack of concentration that makes all tasks difficult. There is an internal fear of events and there is always a feeling of negative feelings that make everything difficult.
- The emotional symptoms include short temper, constant irritability, confining to loneliness and excessive depression.
- As for physical symptoms there can be nausea, pain, diarrhoea, chest pain, frequent cold, sleeplessness, breathing trouble. There can be chances of high blood pressure, backache and decreased immunity.
Natural Tips and Herbs That Help in Stress Relief
There are several herbs that nature has provided that helps in easing the stress. Some of the important herbs are:
- Ashwagandha / Withania Somnifera: it is also known as winter cherry, it helps in reducing stress, fights fatigue and helps in lowering inflammation.
- Brahmi / Bacopa Monnieria: helps in improving memory and mental clarity. Also helps in supporting healthy sleep.
- Chamomile / Matricaria Chamomilla: it is a herb known for its calming effect due to antioxidants found in the plant.
- Lavender: it has been used for various conditions such as insomnia, pain, anxiety and headache.
- Jatamansi: This herb is effective in calming the mind, reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality.
Ayurvedic Treatment for Stress
- Meditation and Pranayama: Ayurveda is not limited to just herbal medications, it is a whole lifestyle approach. Practising meditation and breathing exercises such as anulom vilom and bhramari. These techniques provide immediate relief by calming the nervous system and decreasing the nervous system.
- Abhyanga: Ayurvedic oil massage therapy in which lukewarm oil is used. Oils such as brahmi and sesame are used to provide muscle relaxation, skin nourishment along with improved sleep quality.
- Traditional therapies like shirodhara (warm oil on the forehead) can soothe the nervous system and relieve stress.
- Following a Proper Diet: fresh wholesome meals such as fruits, vegetables, whole grain and milk helps to maintain stable energy levels and balanced moods. Patients should stay away from processed foods, caffeine and excessive sugar consumption.
- Maintaining Dincharya (Daily Routine): People with irregular daily routines experience increased levels of stress. Ayurveda teaches us to align with nature's rhythm which includes waking up early, eating meals on time and going to bed before midnight.
Conclusion
Stress can be challenging to face and overcome. Ayurveda offers a wide range of suitable practices and remedies that may help in calming and relaxing the mind for the long term. Ayurveda identifies stress as manifestation of imbalance doshas.
