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Stress and anxiety have become a part of our lives these days.
Stress is a natural and reasonable reaction which is triggered by external unpleasant situations. It happens when the mind faces situations where body's existence is under threat.
A recent study, done by researchers at University of Bristol in Britain, found that people who take stress in early life are at risk of developing negative thinking which could lead to major depressive disorder (MDD).
While anxiety is considered to be a natural reaction to stress, it could lead to multiple health issues like insomnia, hypertension etc. So it is important to tackle both for a healthy body and mind.
Ayurveda can help one battle stress and anxiety in a natural and effective manner. In a conversation with FIT, Dr Mukesh Sharma from Jiva Ayurveda explains:
Here are five Ayurvedic remedies that can help decrease the excess vata dosha in the human body.
Ayurveda recommends lubricating the body if you are stressed or anxious. Yes, all you have to do is relax. Get a nice head massage at home and calm your mind. If not at home, you can book yourself an appointment for Shirodhara at an Ayurvedic center. Shirodhara is an Ayurvedic therapy that involves gently pouring oils on the forehead.
Lubricating the body or getting a massage can help nourish the nerves, brain and scalp. This can make you calm and relieve your stress.
Pranayama is a very good remedy to relieve your stress and anxiety. It is a Hatha Yoga practice of breath control. In simple words, it is a technique of controlling your breath.
Dr Mukesh Sharma says:
Stress and anxiety are linked to the imbalance of vata dosha in the human body. So, it is better to avoid foods that can increase the vata in your body. Avoid fast food or junk food like chips and popcorn. Ayurveda says that they can increase the vata in your body.
Dr Sharma advises,
If you feel very stressed and cannot decide upon what to do exactly, you can just try some ingredients that are in your kitchen. Including such things in your diet can help relieve stress.
Dr Sharma recommends the intake of some things like amla murabba, ashvagandha, shankhpushpi or brahmi.
Shankhpushpi and brahmi are available in the form of tablets or syrups in the market. Shankhpushpi syrup can reduce mental tension and brahmi can boost brain function and alleviate anxiety and stress.
Well, this is a very basic life tip and Ayurveda also recommends it. Maintain a balance at the physical, mental and emotional level. If you maintain a good balance, your life would be stress and anxiety free.
Do not overwork your body. Give yourself a good rest. Get a goodnight’s sleep and let your body relax itself.
The more you overwork yourself, the more you are prone to be stressed or anxious.
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Published: 24 Jun 2019,05:01 PM IST