Fear and anxiety are very common nowadays due to the ongoing pandemic. Social distancing is making people feel isolated and lonely thus adding to mental stress. Stress has become part of our lives but excessive stress if left unmanaged can lead to mental illness like Depression & Anxiety. Some of the Common symptoms include Insomnia, Stomach upset, Fatigue, Tremors, Obsession, Confusion, Erratic thoughts and difficulty in focusing.

According to Ayurveda, the cause behind mental illness is an imbalance of VATA DOSHA (one of the three Doshas Vata, Pitta and Kapha which constitute our body). Vata Imbalance is also associated with a hyperexcitable Nervous system which leads to too much energy in the mind, not enough at the feet. 

Ayurvedic treatment involves balancing of Vata Dosha and calming of the nervous system through self-realization, Dietary &Lifestyle changes. 

Diet

Sattvic means fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables. Eat healthy fat found in Coconut, nuts, Avocado, eggs, walnuts. Avoid eating raw/uncooked food as it aggravates Vata. Add spices like ginger, cumin, nutmeg and cinnamon. Warm drinks pacify Vata like warm vegetable soups, warm milk with Ashwagandha. 

Lifestyle Changes

If your dincharya / daily routine goes well then you will stay healthy and stress-free for the whole day. Wake up on time, practice yoga and breathing exercises, eat and sleep on time.

Yoga & Pranayam

It is scientifically proven that yoga and Pranayam soothe our nervous system. Yogasans like Sukhasan (Easy Pose), Balasana, Paschimuttanasana, Uttanasana, and Breathing Exercises like Bhastrika, Anulomvilom, Brahmari will relieve you of stress and anxiety.

Meditation

Spending even a few minutes can restore your calm and inner peace. It helps you control your body and mind. Meditation helps you relieve yourself of negative thoughts.

Ayurvedic Herbs

Brahmi-  itis is known to reduce cortisol levels and enhances concentration power.

 Ashwagandha-  helps infighting insomnia and inducing peaceful sleep. Ashwagandha is known to be the best herb for balancing Vata.

Green Tea –Drinking about half a cup of green tea a day seems to lower the risk of developing depression and dementia.

 Tulsi- It contains antidepressant and anti-anxiety properties. Tulsi balances Vata Dosha and soothes the nervous system.

Use of ayurvedic oil 

Massaging the body with the oil rejuvenates our nerves and improves the quality of sleep. If you don’t get enough time to massage the whole body then treat massage stress areas like hands, feet, and neck. 

OM Chanting- It stimulates brain cells and reduces anxiety levels which improve memory and learning.

Stay close to nature. Feel fresh air, grow plants. Learn to be compassionate for yourself. Don't hold worries, share them with your friends and family. Stay calm Stay Healthy and Stay Home.

Staying close to nature relieves you of stress plants. OM ChantingItstimulates brain cells and reduces anxiety levels which improves memory and learning. Learn to have compassion for yourself. Don’t hold your worries and stress. Vent out your