KICKING OUT STRESS WITH AYURVEDA

What exactly is stress? We are sure you all will agree that stress is undeniably indefinable. Stress can be defined as a psycho-physiological response within the body to a physical, emotional, or environmental stimulus.

The Ayurvedic approach to stress and the majority of health issues is based on an imbalance in our energetic properties - the doshas Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. In Ayurveda, stress is primarily viewed as a disturbance to our Vata dosha, the energy of movement formed from the space and air elements. The Vata dosha is inextricably linked to the nervous system, and while a little stress can be felt as beneficial in short bursts, it wreaks havoc on the mind and body over long periods of time. This is the negative and unfavorable effect that we commonly refer to as stress.

The key focus of managing stress in the body and mind, as well as supporting wellness and longevity, is constantly fine-tuning the Vata balance. Furthermore, there is no one-size-fits-all solution to stress management. Here are some key areas where we can focus on stress management.

1. Spend Time With Nature.

Vata is the element of movement and is made up of air and space. We want to invoke the qualities of water and earth that can bring balance based on the premise that like increases like and opposites bring balance. Take a walk through the woods, up the mountains, or along the beach. Remove your shoes and walk barefoot to truly immerse yourself in nature. This was also popular in the 1800s as a concept known as 'earthing.'

2. Pranayama (Breathing Exercises)

Pranayama literally means "Breath Control." Why is it that when we are stressed, we turn to our breath? Our breath is our life force energy, and by deepening and lengthening it, we can increase prana and calmness in our mind and body. There are many breathing techniques in yoga and Ayurveda, but my favorites for calming and rebalancing Vata are Ujjayi, Nadi Shodhana, and Brahmari.

3. Abhyanga 

As humans, we are wired for social interaction and touch, both of which have very therapeutic effects on our endorphins that is our happy hormones while also influencing the cortisol levels that rise in stressful situations. Furthermore, in Abhyanga using oil externally through self-massage can truly rebalance any Vata aggravation. Traditionally, self-massage is performed before showering with warm oil, beginning at the top of the head and working down to the toes. It is not only nourishing and nurturing for the skin, but it is also extremely hydrating. There are some lovely Vata, Pitta, and Kapha-balancing herbal oils available, as well as traditional medicated oils like Ashwagandha, Mahanarayana, Dashamoola, and Dhanwantaram.

4. Ashwagandha

This is by far my favorite adaptogenic herb, and it's no surprise that it's known as the "King of Herbs" because it has such a fantastic auto-balancing effect on the body and mind. It promotes parasympathetic ie; rest and parasympathetic ie; fight or flight responses. What distinguishes Ashwagandha is its ability to both calm and energize the body. When taken on a regular basis, it is an excellent choice for balancing Vata and reducing stress.

5. Routine Consistency 

Maintaining routine and regularity in our daily patterns is the single most important balancing factor for Vata, and this is especially important when it comes to sleep and eating habits. I recommend going to bed around 10 p.m. When the body naturally feels drowsy due to Kapha energy. Allow yourself 60-90 minutes to prepare for bed by avoiding screen and industrial lights, as well as anything that stimulates or irritates the mind and body. Dim the lights, light a few candles, play soothing music, give yourself a foot massage, and drink your ashwagandha with hot milk. It's also a good idea to take a warm bath.

AADAR who always has a firm belief in Ayurveda can certainly try to incorporate as much of the above as possible, but this is not comprehensive in managing stress, and strongly advise you to get consulted by our Health Experts who can easily connect with you and discuss your sexual concerns. You can consult your family doctor first to get the most accurate diagnosis, or you can contact our Health Expert or connect with us at +919867667699. You can consult with a practitioner to determine the root cause of your imbalances so that you can reap the long-term health benefits of a personalized wellness plan.