Ayurveda’s Insight on Stress and its Management

Shanti, Shanti, Shantih! (Peace, Peace, Peace!)

These words resonate through the Vedas and Samhitas, reflecting the essence of Ayurveda(the science of life), which emphasizes balance and equanimity. A harmonious state, both within and without, fosters well-being by minimizing conflict and stress. Ayurveda extends this principle to all aspects of life, including the food we eat, the thoughts we entertain, our relationship with the environment, and our interpersonal connections.

Stress often arises from inner conflict, though external factors many a times might serve as triggers. It may stem from goals yet unattained, personal or societal expectations, or high expectations from loved ones or figures of authority. Additionally, past conditioning and deep-seated impressions (Vasanas) influence our mental state. Ayurveda recognizes that such internal struggles can disturb the body’s natural balance, leading to imbalances in the doshas (fundamental principles of physiology and psychology determined by a unique combination of the five elements of nature, viz, earth, water, fire, air and space) and the overproduction of stress hormones like cortisol. This, in turn, disrupts the autonomic nervous system, pushing the body into a “fight or flight” mode. The first step toward managing such stress is recognizing its presence and impact.

Ayurveda describes the human body as existing in a state of dynamic equilibrium. Disruption in the balance of the three doshas (viz Vata, Pitta, Kapha) disrupts this dynamic equilibrium and leads to stress and both physical as well as psychological unease within the body. Of the three doshas, Vata is the primary contributor to stress since it controls all movements such as circulation, excretion, absorption. Hence, from an Ayurvedic point of view, Vata is the primary area of focus in addressing stress management to restore balance for overall well-being.

 Simple Ayurvedic Tips to Reduce Stress

At ArogyaM, we recommend these practices for stress relief:

1. Conscious Breathing: According to Yoga as well as Ayurveda, the breath and the mind are known to be intricately linked – controlling the breath helps control the mind and vice versa! Practice breathwork techniques such as deep belly breathing, extended exhalation, Shitali and Shitkari Pranayama (known for their cooling effects and bringing down Pita dosha in the body), and Nadi Shuddhi Pranayama to regulate the breath and calm the mind
2. Follow Dinacharya (Daily Routine): Ayurveda emphasizes having a consistent daily routine aligned with our circadian rhythm or our internal body clock. Deviation from the circadian rhythm is known to cause disturbances in the physiology, mental health and metabolism of the human body. Ayurveda provides guidelines on the ideal time and method of conducting one’s daily activities to maintain optimal health, viz: Waking, Cleansing, Kabala (Oil pulling), Anjana Vidhi (Eye Cleansing), Nasya (application of warm medicated oil to the nostrils), Abhyanga (self-massage with oil), Vyayama (Daily Exercise), Eating at regular intervals and having a regular Bedtime.
3. Avoid Triggers of Inner Conflict: Minimize interactions with people or situations that cause mental distress.
4. Shirodhara Therapy: A soothing Ayurvedic treatment where warm herbal oil is poured over the forehead to calm the nervous system.
5. Take Restorative Breaks: Step away from your regular schedule to relax and rejuvenate.
6. Ayurvedic Herbs (Oushadis): Ayurveda offers a wide range of herbal remedies to support stress management and overall well-being. Brahmi, Jatamansi, Rudraksha, Sarpagandha, etc. are great de-stressers. However, one must consult an Ayurvedic Vaidya (physician) before deciding upon the right formulations. Please take note that Single-Drug Therapy is not recommended in good  Ayurvedic practices.

At ArogyaM, we offer a dedicated 10-day de-stress program called ShantaM to help you restore balance and peace.