Stress and anxiety have become prevalent parts of modern life, with many turning to anti-depressants as a quick fix solution. However, the truth is that stress is a psychological condition and can be better managed with willpower and holistic approaches.
With the statistics for stress-related depression on the rise, there is a growing interest in alternative treatment methods, such as Ayurveda.
Ayurveda is a native Indian system of medicine that utilizes herbal science to promote a person’s overall well-being and create lasting change. This holistic approach covers three core areas: herbal treatment, diet, and yogic breathing, each of which can help reduce stress and anxiety.
Herbal Treatment for Stress
Ayurveda has an extensive range of herbs that are known for their calming and stress-relieving properties. One such herb is ashwagandha, which has been used in Ayurveda for centuries.
Ashwagandha is an adaptogen that helps the body cope with stress by regulating cortisol levels. Other herbs, such as Brahmi and Jatamansi, are also used in Ayurveda to reduce stress and anxiety.
Ashwagandha – The Stress-Busting Adaptogen
Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that is widely used in Ayurveda for its stress-relieving properties. It helps the body cope with stress by regulating cortisol levels, the hormone that is released in response to stress.
By reducing cortisol levels, ashwagandha helps calm the mind and promote relaxation. Studies have also shown that ashwagandha can improve sleep quality and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Brahmi – The Brain-Boosting Herb
Brahmi, also known as Bacopa monnieri, is a popular herb in Ayurveda that is known for its cognitive-enhancing properties. It has been used for centuries to improve memory, concentration, and focus.
Brahmi is also effective in reducing stress and anxiety. It works by regulating the levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which are responsible for mood regulation.
Jatamansi – The Natural Sedative
Jatamansi, also known as spikenard, is another Ayurvedic herb that is used for its calming and sedative properties. It is particularly useful in managing stress-related insomnia and promoting restful sleep.
Jatamansi works by reducing the levels of stress hormones in the body, which helps to induce a sense of calmness and relaxation.
Dietary Changes for Stress Relief
Ayurveda considers diet an important factor in maintaining good health. Eating a balanced diet of fresh, whole foods can help reduce stress levels.
Ayurveda suggests that individuals suffering from stress should incorporate foods such as ghee, nuts, seeds, and fruits in their diet. Additionally, drinking herbal teas such as chamomile or licorice can also help calm the mind.
Incorporate Ghee, Nuts, Seeds, and Fruits in Your Diet
Ayurveda recommends consuming a balanced diet of fresh, whole foods for stress relief. Including foods such as ghee, nuts, seeds, and fruits can help reduce stress levels.
Ghee, a type of clarified butter, is considered a superfood in Ayurveda. It is rich in essential fatty acids that help nourish the brain and nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
Nuts and seeds are also great stress-relieving foods, as they are rich in magnesium, a mineral that helps relax the muscles and calm the mind. Fruits, particularly those rich in vitamin C, such as oranges and kiwis, are also beneficial as they help reduce cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress.
Drink Herbal Teas
In addition to incorporating stress-relieving foods in your diet, Ayurveda also recommends drinking herbal teas such as chamomile or licorice to calm the mind. Chamomile tea is known for its soothing properties and can help reduce anxiety levels.
Licorice tea, on the other hand, is believed to help reduce the production of cortisol, thus promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels.
Other Ayurvedic Recommendations
Apart from dietary changes, Ayurveda also recommends other lifestyle changes for stress relief. These include practicing yoga, meditation, and pranayama (breathing exercises). These practices help calm the mind, reduce anxiety levels, and promote relaxation.
Yogic Breathing for Relaxation
The practice of pranayama, also known as yogic breathing, is a crucial part of Ayurveda. Regularly engaging in pranayama exercises has been shown to effectively alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression.
By performing breathing techniques like Nadi Shodhan Pranayama or Alternate Nostril Breathing, one can experience a sense of mental calmness and physical relaxation.
Why Yogic Breathing is Important
Yogic breathing is a form of deep breathing that involves controlling the breath to increase relaxation and reduce stress. It has been practiced for centuries in Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine, and is now recognized as an effective way to improve overall health and well-being.
Yogic breathing helps to balance the nervous system by regulating the sympathetic (fight or flight) and parasympathetic (rest and digest) responses.
When we are stressed, our sympathetic nervous system is activated, which can lead to an increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and other physical symptoms. Yogic breathing helps to activate the parasympathetic response, which can help counteract the effects of stress and promote relaxation.
Nadi Shodhan Pranayama: The Alternate Nostril Breathing Technique
Nadi Shodhan Pranayama, also known as alternate nostril breathing, is one of the most popular yogic breathing techniques. This technique involves breathing through alternate nostrils, using the fingers to block one nostril at a time.
To practice Nadi Shodhan Pranayama, sit comfortably in a cross-legged position and close your eyes. Rest your left hand on your left knee with the palm facing upwards, and bring your right hand to your nose.
Block your right nostril with your right thumb and inhale deeply through your left nostril. Once you have taken a full inhalation, use your right ring finger to block your left nostril and exhale through your right nostril.
Then, inhale through your right nostril, block it with your thumb, and exhale through your left nostril. This is one complete cycle. Repeat this for five to ten minutes.
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Conclusion
Incorporating Ayurveda into your daily routine can help reduce stress and anxiety. The holistic approach of Ayurveda considers the person as a whole, taking into account their physical, mental, and emotional states.
By incorporating herbal treatment, dietary changes, and yogic breathing, individuals can create lasting changes to their overall well-being. Embrace the power of Ayurveda and take control of your stress levels today.