Manage Depression and Anxiety for a Healthier Mind and Body

Anxiety and depression, sound familiar right? These two health conditions have turned into major concerns over the past few years. It is mainly an outcome of the lifestyle patterns we all have been incorporating into our lives, in today’s hectic world. The biggest concern is that it not only affects our state of mind but also negatively affects our physical health. It’s pretty dangerous, how these two health disorders can take control over our emotions, our way of thinking, and our outlook on life. In this blog, we will talk more about how Ayurveda tackles these issues naturally and holistically, to bring back harmony into our lives.

Ayurveda believes that our health is all about finding a balance between body, mind, and spirit. They all are interconnected so if one is out of whack, the other gets affected too such as if the mind is disturbed, the body responds with changes in our hormones or nervous system and vice versa. Keeping all that in perspective, Ayurveda suggests some recommendations to balance each dosha which involves some modifications in lifestyle habits, diet plans, and natural remedies. Similarly, the Ayurvedic treatment for anxiety and depression with this approach not only helps us to calm our minds but also allows us to be more positive, as one’s way of thinking is nothing but just a mind game.

Fundamental Principles of Ayurveda

Overview of the three doshas:

In Ayurveda, there are three doshas that regulate many physiological and psychological activities in our body. These doshas are called Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Every person has a unique blend of these doshas which is called their Prakriti. This combination further influences every individual's physical and mental behavior.

Vata Dosha

Vata is all about air and space elements, reflecting qualities of lightness, coldness, and movement. The bodily functions it governs are related to motion, such as circulation and breathing.

Pitta Dosha

Pitta is associated with the fire and water elements, representing the qualities of heat, intensity, and transformation. Pitta governs metabolic processes, digestion, and hormonal balance. 

Kapha Dosha

Kapha, comprising the elements of earth and water, represents stability, coolness, and nourishment. It is responsible for governing structure and lubrication in the body, therefore, influencing aspects like immunity and joint health.

How dosha imbalances can affect mental health

Ayurveda says that Doshas are the three energies that govern our physical and mental health. These doshas, named Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, are responsible for maintaining the right balance in our body and mind. Any imbalance in these specific doshas can lead to a great disturbance in our well-being, including mental health problems.

There can be various underlying factors behind the cause of imbalance in these doshas, such as diet, lifestyle, stress, and environment. To make it short, here’s an example of an imbalance in each dosha:

    • An imbalance in Vata dosha can lead to anxiety and restlessness, making it difficult for the person to focus or relax.
    • An imbalance in Pitta dosha can cause anger and irritability, leading to uncontrollable temper, therefore making them more prone to outbursts and conflicts.
    • An imbalance in Kapha dosha can lead to depression and lethargy. So, the person with kapha imbalance may feel unmotivated, sluggish, and have difficulty in engaging in joyful activities.

In conclusion, dosha imbalances can significantly impact our mental health. By understanding the qualities of each dosha we can address these imbalances. With a few minor changes in our dinacharya, one can improve their mental health and find a greater balance in life.

The Mind-body connection in Ayurveda

In Ayurvedic philosophy, it is said that the mind and body are viewed as essential components of one’s body and they are known to be deeply connected. No other organ connects with body as wholly as the mind. So, a healthy relationship between them is really crucial for our general well-being.

The mental and emotional states can have a profound impact on our physical health and vice-versa. Like, when we're stressed, angry, or scared, it can throw our doshas off balance and mess with our bodies. whereas on the other hand, emotions of joy, love, and gratitude can bring back the harmony in our body and promote good health. Therefore, Ayurveda promotes the importance of cultivating positive thoughts through practices like meditation and yoga.

Ayurvedic Herbs for Mental Well-being 

Ayurvedic herbs are basically just natural plants that are being used as medicinal plants by our traditional Indian medical system for a really long time. It is because they can effectively balance the three energies in our body - Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.

Ayurvedic-Herbs-for-Mental-Wellness

When it comes to mental well-being, Ayurvedic herbs are known for their calming and soothing effects on our mind. They have the potential to reduce anxiety and depression, as well as improve memory and cognitive function. Some of the most popular Ayurvedic herbs for mental health and for instance, their way of consumption is given below.

Before consuming any herbal supplements, make sure to talk to a qualified doctor.

Brahmi

Brahmi is also known as ‘Gotu Kola’. It works like a tonic for our brain as it has a positive impact on the functioning of the brain. Right consumption of this herb can help you think better and work wonders for your memory. It’s like sharpening a pencil so that it writes smoothly. People often say that it helps them feel less stressed out and rather more relaxed. Therefore, Brahmi can work like a soothing balm for our minds.
Consumption: It can be taken in the form of a capsule, tablet, or powder. Try not to consume it on an empty stomach as it may upset your stomach.

Shankhpushpi

Shankhpushpi is a special plant that help people with their anxiety, depression, and mental fatigue. It improves the overall functioning of the mind by strengthening its muscles and sharpening the memory. When you're feeling stressed or anxious, Shankhpushpi comes to the rescue. It helps calm down those racing thoughts and eases the tension in your mind. It's also like a supercharger for your memory and focus. Overall, Shankhpushpi is like a trusted friend for your mental health.
Consumption: You can take Shankhpushpi powder along with warm milk or water to help boost memory and concentration. Shankhpushpi tablets and capsules can also be used.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is like a superhero herb for your brain! It's super famous in Ayurvedic medicine because it helps our mind in handling stress. It's all because of the antioxidant properties present in Ashwagandha. It protects our brain cells from anxiety and neurodegenerative conditions. Simply we can say that It's like a chill pill for your brain. Not only that, but Ashwagandha balances Vata and boosts brainpower, helping you think clearer and remember things better.
Consumption: 1 capsule or tablet of ashwagandha can be consumed with warm milk, 2 hours after a meal. You can also consume powder. Make sure to consult your doctor.

Jatamansi

Jatamansi is a herb that's really good for our mental health. It is well known for its calming and peaceful effects on our nervous system. It not only helps an individual to find the right balance of emotions but can also provide with a better sleep at night by reducing anxiety and depression. That is not all, in addition to these properties, It also has neuroprotective properties that safeguard the brain cells from damaging.

Consumption:

    • ½ teaspoon of Jatamansi powder can be consumed with lukewarm water once or twice a day.
    • Jatamansi capsules or tablets can be used as per the advice of an expert

Tulsi

Tulsi or Holy Basil, is known as the Queen of Herbs. It is considered as a sacred herb in Ayurveda and is highly valued for its numerous health benefits. With properties like anti-stress and antidepressant, tulsi can be thought of as a natural mood-booster. It’s like giving a warm hug to your brain! The special compounds present in it, reduces those anxious feelings, leaving individual’s mind at ease. Plus, Tulsi has this amazing ability to uplift your mood. So whenever you are feeling down or need a little mental pick-up, the Queen of Herbs is here to rescue.

Consumption: It can be consumed in the form of Tulsi tea, supplements, or straight intake of fresh leaves.

Lifestyle Changes for Mental Wellness

The best one can do for a healthy body is to shift from an unhealthy lifestyle to a healthy one. Ayurveda is here to provide you with a proper guide for this journey. Some basic changes in one’s way of living for better Mental Wellness may involve:

Lifestyle Changes for Mental Health

1. Change Your Diet

It has been proven in numerous studies that what we eat is likely to affect how we feel, our concentration, memory, and mood. This is because different foods contain various nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that affect the production of our hormones. Good nutrition can prevent or at least slow down the weakening of cognitive functioning.
Foods rich in vitamin B, iron, magnesium, zinc, and calcium are recommended as they can enhance the functioning of the brain and help you in managing depression. For instance, consumption of avocados, berries, tomatoes, green leafy veggies, and whole grains must be a regular option for your daily diet.
Also, do not shy away from adding fats to your diet. The brain contains the largest level of fat in the body, so feed it with a good supply of unsaturated fat. This includes foods like nuts, seeds, and vegetable-based oils.
Avoid too much sugar, which can negatively affect your weight and blood sugar levels; as well as increase the risk of depression or exacerbate its symptoms.

2. Start Exercising

Exercise has been proven to have tremendous advantages for individuals who are suffering from mental health issues. Studies show that, even regularly following a low-impact physical activity such as walking, jogging, or light cardio can reduce the occurrence of depression in the long run.
Plus, exercising helps to keep your weight under control. Extra weight will not only make you unhealthy and more prone to developing conditions such as diabetes, but will also contribute to your mental distress.

3. Stress-relieving Practices

Stress is a big trigger to mental health. It not only makes it hard for us to relax but also aggravates the symptoms of mental illness. One of the most reliable methods one can adopt to deal with stress is Yoga or Meditation.
Yoga is said to be a powerful stress reduction tool, and the best way to indulge in regular physical activity for beginners. Even a thirty-minute session a day can calm our minds and bring more positivity.
Some of the best poses of Yoga for anxiety and depression relief include Sukhasana, Uttanasana, Balasana, Savasana, and Adho Mukha Svanasana.

4. Get More Sleep

Lack of adequate sleep can trigger the symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. So try to make a healthy sleep schedule and follow it consistently. Commit yourself towards it and try not to have heavy dinner before bedtime as it can disrupt your sleep pattern. You can also try avoiding activities that prevent you from sleeping, such as late-night movie binges or intake of alcohol or caffeine right before bedtime.

5. Keep a Journal

Expressing your feelings or emotions through a journal can be a very useful way to deal with stress for some of you. Start keeping a journal and identify your triggers. You can even go back to it from time to time to recognize your progress, which will help you to stay motivated.

Ayurvedic Treatment Advantages Over Conventional Treatment

We all have heard of countless benefits of Ayurveda and how it’s better than a modern treatment. Here’s a recap of it:
    • To treat any mental disorder, Unlike modern treatments, Ayurveda does not just suppress its symptoms. It rather works on its root cause, tries to align all the doshas in balance, and maintain a harmony between the Mind-body connection.
    • With the usage of gentle herbs, it calms our mind, boosts its functioning, and enhances our well-being as a whole.
    • The results of Conventional treatments are mainly short-term. So, in the near future, it’s possible to face conditions like stress, anxiety, and depression again. But, Ayurveda offers long-term effects as it changes our way of living and shows us the right path towards a healthy life.
    • The modern pathies work on a barter system. If they treat a symptom in return they damage our other organs or leave a huge side effect. Ayurveda not only treats a specific disease but it also boosts the immune power by cleansing our body from within.
    • The modern treatments involve medicines that are formed in labs by combining various chemicals. In contrast to that, Ayurveda offers a natural treatment by just adjusting our nutritional and lifestyle habits, promoting a healthy mind.
The Ayurvedic treatment approach may not be quick, but it is extremely successful.

Takeaway

Conditions like Anxiety and Depression are not just vicious for our mental health but can adversely affect our overall well-being.
By finding the right balance between body, mind, and spirit, one can manage any of their health conditions and this is where Ayurveda plays a role! Caring about different individual systems of the body, we provide personalized treatments. And, by recognizing the importance of mind-body connection, we provide the most gentle remedies.

Article By:

Dr. Sharda Ayurveda

At Dr. Sharda Ayurveda emphasis is made on treating the patients with the power of Ayurveda and traveling along with them in the path of natural and safe healing. The satisfaction and recovery of our patients is our utmost priority.

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