It is a fact that anxiety and depression are widespread emotional issues in the modern world of fast living. Lots of individuals are not able to cope with stress, moodiness, and inattentiveness. Although modern medicine is a form of treatment, it is accompanied by side effects. The ancient Indian science of healing Ayurveda is a natural and holistic solution of balancing the mind and the body. Both anxiety and depression are considered as mind and dosha imbalance mainly Vata and Pitta in Ayurveda. Ayurveda is able to restore peace in life through herbal remedies, diet, and lifestyle modification.
Ayurvedic knowledge about Anxiety and Depression
Ayurveda perceives emotional health as one to do with physical balance. Anxiety or Chittodvega is associated with overabundance of Vata dosha the element of air and space. It brings anxiety, panic, and thoughtlessness. Depression which is also known as Vishada is attributed to an imbalance in the dosha Kapha and Vata and results in heaviness, sadness, and loss of motivation.
On imbalance of these doshas, the mind is imbalanced. Ayurveda is aimed at restoring balance on the basis of herbs, diet, meditation, simple routines that relax the nervous system and cheer up the soul.
Anxiety and Depression Ayurvedic Herbs
Ayurveda uses herbs which are important. They assist in feeding the brain, de-stressing and encouraging favorable emotions. These are some popular Ayurvedic herbs used in the treatment of the mind.
Withania Somnifera (ashwagandha)
One of the Ayurvedic adaptogens is ashwagandha. It assists the body to feel better when stressed and tired. Frequent intake of Ashwagandha decreases the levels of cortisol and enhances sleep and calmness. Most Ayurvedic physicians prescribe Aswagandha tea or capsules to treat anxiety and depression.
Brahmi (Bacopa Monnieri)
The Ayurveda considers Brahmi to be the brain tonic. It improves memory, concentration and sharpness. It also promotes the nervous system and reduces anxiety. Brahmi oil may be applied to the head, whereas Brahmi powder or a tablet may be used on a daily basis in order to maintain mental equilibrium.
Shankhpushpi(Convolvulus pluricaulis)
This is a herb that performs miracles in the case of a hyperactive mind. Shankhpushpi is used in reducing stress, sleeping better and increasing concentration. It is also typically employed in Ayurvedic tonics to treat mental health.
Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi)
The roots of jatamansi are highly calming. They are used to minimize irritability and emotional instability. This herb is particularly taken to the type of Vata type of anxiety, where the head is found to be scattered and it is restless.
Tulsi (Holy Basil)
Tulsi tea is helpful in increasing the mood and mental exhaustion. It is beneficial to the immune system and the ability of the body to adjust to stress. It is also a holy plant in Ayurveda, which is purifying the mind and spirit.
Ayurvedic Therapies to the Mental Balance
Ayurveda also includes different treatments to relax the nervous system and remove emotional imbalances in addition to herbs. These therapies are normally performed under the supervision of the professionals in Ayurvedic centers.
Abhyanga (Oil Massage)
Full-body oil massage with warm herbal oils should be done so as to reduce anxiety and enhance circulation. It helps feed the skin and relaxes the nervous system bringing a balance to the Vata dosha. The Sesame or Ashwagandha oil should be used as a part of a self-massage every day.
Shirodhara
Warm herbal oil is constantly poured over the forehead during this treatment. This process helps to relax the nervous system, decreases insomnia and helps to be emotionally stable. Shirodhara is considered to be one of the most effective Ayurvedic remedies in anxiety and depression.
Nasya (Nasal Therapy)
The application of herbal oil or ghee up the nostrils helps to clear the mental fog and improve the mood. It feeds the brain cells and alleviates the stress-related headaches.
Meditation and Pranayama
Ayurveda prescribes breathing exercises and meditation to relax the mind. Bhramari (humming bee breath) and Anulom Vilom (alternate nostril breathing) work very well with anxiety. Practice helps to attain concentration and emotional clarity on a daily basis.
Ayurvedic Diet to cure Anxiety and Depression
Food is very vital in emotion balancing. A Sattvic diet, fresh, pure, and light food, according to Ayurveda keeps the mind calm and positive. It is also necessary to avoid processed, oily, and spicy food.
Include foods such as:
- Different fruits such as bananas, Pomegranates, and apples.
- Baked vegetables such as carrot, pumpkin and spinach.
- Before going to bed take warm milk with turmeric or nutmeg.
- Fruits and vegetables such as rice and oatmeal.
- Small amounts of nuts, ghee and seeds.
Excess caffeine, sugar and fried foods should be avoided because they contribute to the imbalance of Vata and Pitta. Timely eating in a calm place is also conducive to the stability of the mind.
Everyday (Dinacharya) of a Peaceful Mind
An exercise routine enables the mind to be grounded. To control stress and emotional swings Ayurveda advises that one keeps a regular schedule.
- Rise early preferably before the sun sets.
- Warm water should be taken to clear the system.
- Meditate or do at least 20 minutes of yoga.
- Take food at the right time and do not miss a breakfast.
- Go to bed early and have a minimum of 7-8 hours sleep.
- Take walks in the nature or engage in mindful walking to be in touch with nature.
These are easy to practice habits that regulate hormones and make one feel relaxed throughout the day.
Yoga and Ayurveda: The Ideal Combination
Yoga and Ayurveda are two aspects that go hand in hand. Whereas Ayurveda is curing the body using herbs and diet, yoga is enhancing the bonding between the soul and the mind. Pose such as Child/Balasana, Cobra Pose/Bhujangasana and Legs-Up-the-Wall pose/ Viparita Karani are relaxing because of anxiety. Slow breathing in yoga makes one more relaxed and peaceful inside.
Natural Ways of dealing with Stress
Ayurveda teaches one to live in harmony with nature. The following are some of the daily habits that can be used to decrease stress and depression:
- Minim screen time and scrolling late.
- Be around good people and inspiring music.
- Maintain gratitude journal to concentrate on positive things in life.
- Use sandalwood or lavender oil in aromatherapy.
- Take breaks at work to ensure that you are not burnt out.
- Living consciously enables the mind to relax and rejuvenate on emotional stress.
Ayurvedic View on Healing of Emotions
With Ayurveda, it is not only action to get the symptoms off but rather bring about the balance within. The body, mind, and soul collaborate to ensure that emotional health is enhanced. Steady thoughts are experienced when Vata is relaxed. The perfect balance of Pitta will result in soft emotions. and when the Kapha is in equanimity life is calm and stable.
Frequent consumption of Ayurvedic plants, yoga, meditation, and healthy lifestyles change permanently. In contrast to fast remedies, in Ayurveda one is urged to be patient and consistent in healing.
When to Seek Professional Help?
Although Ayurveda is highly associated with natural healing, it is important to seek the services of a certified Ayurvedic physician in case the symptoms are severe. They are able to prescribe customized herbs, Panchakarma treatments and even your dieting changes that concern your dosha. Integrating Ayurveda and modern healthcare will guarantee total health.
Final Thoughts
Ayurveda tells us that the best place to start the process of healing is internally. The anxiety and depression can be controlled by feeding the mind with natural herbs, balanced foods and performing self-care every day. Ayurveda does not teach us to repress emotions but instead teaches us to comprehend them and create balance in the means of living mindfully.
Ayurveda is the best route to emotional wellness that is as holistic as possible and devoid of side effects. Begin with a simple task – drink herbal tea, meditate and lead a calm life. In the long run, both your mind and body will be appreciative of your decision of taking the natural path to healing.