Stress has become quite inevitable in the current world. However, it does not mean that it should not be managed. Stress and anxiety can cause several physical and mental ailments and cause disharmony in the body and mind. Therefore, managing stress is extremely crucial.
Here is how Ayurveda suggests managing stress. These 5 Ayurvedic remedies can help you prevent disorders associated with stress with ease and efficacy.
Practice Yoga and Pranayama
The ancient yoga practices have been proven extremely fruitful in relieving stress and anxiety naturally. Yoga practices include Asanas, Pranayama, meditation and ancient yoga philosophy. All these practices help to relax the mind and remove the toxins responsible for inducing stress and anxiety in the mind. Some of the most beneficial yoga Asanas for anxiety and stress are:
- Dhanurasana (Bow Pose)
- Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose)
- Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend Pose)
- Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog Pose)
- Marjariasana (Cat Pose)
- Sirsasana (Headstand)
- Savasana (Corpse Pose)
Pranayamas have also been proven highly effective in dealing with stress and stress-related disorders. Pranayama involves controlled breathing and helps to flush out the toxins from the mind. Some of the most effective Pranayams are:
- Nadi Shodhan Pranayama
- Kapalbhati Pranayama
- Bhastrika Pranayama
- Bhramari Pranayama
Take the Help of Ayurvedic Therapies
There are many therapies mentioned in Ayurveda that help to cure stress and anxiety naturally. These therapies help to remove toxins from the mind, treat stress and cure stress-related disorders such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, fatigue, etc. Some of the most effective Ayurvedic therapies for stress management are:
Shirodhara: In this Ayurvedic therapy, oil, water or buttermilk is poured down on the head to relax and rejuvenate the mind.
Shirobasti: Just like Shirodhara, liquids such as oil, water or buttermilk are poured on the head. The only difference between the two therapies is that in Shirobasti, the liquid concoction is allowed to seep inside the head for some time.
Pizichill: Pizichill is an Ayurvedic massage in which lukewarm Ayurvedic oils are used to remove toxins from the body and the mind. It is a combined application of both steam therapy and oil therapy.
Change Eating Habits and Eat a Balanced Diet
According to Ayurveda, diet or Ahara is of utmost significance while dealing with stress and anxiety. The gut and brain are interconnected and vastly impact the functions of each other. An imbalanced diet can lead to the development of toxins in the body and induce stress and anxiety. There are many factors that need to be taken care of while eating meals.
- You must eat your heaviest meal in the afternoon whereas your lightest meal at dinner as your digestive fires are the strongest during the day.
- You must eat a Dosha-specific diet. It means that if you have aggravated Vata, you must try to eat foods that can pacify Vata and try to avoid foods that can cause Vata.
- You must follow the rules of Virrudha Ahara. Many foods do not go well with each other and cause stress and anxiety.
- You should try to include fruits and nuts such as almonds and oranges that help to reduce cortisol and manage stress. You should also try to avoid alcohol, caffeine and sugar.
- According to Ayurveda, you must eat your diet with mindfulness. Try to be present at the moment while eating your food. Mindfulness while eating can vastly help to reduce stress and anxiety.
Use Ayurvedic Herbs
There are many Ayurvedic herbs for stress and anxiety. You may consult with an Ayurvedic practitioner and start including these life-changing herbs in your lifestyle. Some of the herbs that are highly effective in reducing stress and anxiety are:
Brahmi: Brahmi is one of the best natural remedies to cure stress and anxiety. It significantly helps to reduce the level of cortisol, the hormone responsible for inducing stress, as well as create a soothing effect on the nerves.
Bhringraj: Bhringraj helps to detoxify the body as well as enhance the blood circulation in the body. With better blood circulation, oxygen and nutrients reach effectively to the cells and energize your brain and body. Bhringraj is extremely helpful to calm and relax your mind.
Ashwagandha: Ashwagandha is one of the best herbs to relieve stress and anxiety. It promotes sleep, aids the body to adapt to stressful situations and boosts energy in the body.
Tulsi: Owing to its anxiolytic and antidepressant properties, Tulsi is a great natural remedy to cure psychological stress and anxiety.
Get Adequate Sleep
According to Ayurveda nidra, sleep is very important to deal with stress. Sleeping helps the body to detoxify naturally while also allowing your mind to relax and rejuvenate. It is one of the most natural means to treat stress and anxiety. Your sleeping patterns also hold great importance in dealing with stress and anxiety. You must try to sleep early at night and wake up early in the morning. Your body clock should work in accordance with the circadian rhythm.
Takeaway
With effective lifestyle changes, you can easily manage your stress and anxiety. There are some great remedies in Ayurveda to cure stress such as Yoga, Pranayama, Ayurvedic herbs, Ayurvedic therapies and more. With the help of these tips, you can better manage your stress and anxiety.
This article is reviewed by Dr. Ashwini Konnur
