Ayurvedic viewpoint - Stress
We all have stress in our lives. Some of it is beneficial, like the ‘stress’ of gravity that keeps us on the earth. Sometimes the different pressures in life become a negative ‘stress’ and our coping mechanisms are strained. This can lead to our health becoming compromised as we start to under-function and if not managed properly, can lead to burn-out and depression.
Typical symptoms
Anxiety
Muscular tension, cramps
Rapid breathing
Palpitations, sweating
Tension in the chest
Difficulty sleeping, insomnia
Poor digestion, IBS
Irritability
Ayurvedic viewpoint
Ayurveda is the traditional medical system of India. It uses natural remedies, diet and lifestyle to bring optimum health.
Ayurveda sees stress as an aggravation of the subtle aspects of the nervous system that are regulated by a principle known as vata. Because vata has qualities of being light, subtle, erratic and sensitive, it is easily disturbed by too much sensory stimulation, too much food, too much time pressure and too many telephone calls! This can result in some of the symptoms of anxiety, insomnia and fatigue.
Today’s lifestyle is all set for causing stress, but there are some very good ways of managing it yourself.
Treatment
There are some very effective natural treatments to help manage stress as recommended by Ayurveda:
Ashwagandha is a magic herb for relaxing the nervous system that is literally ‘frazzled’ by stress whilst giving you enduring energy. Very grounding.
Ashwagandha & Gotu Kola formula is an enhanced Ashwagandha blend for those times of extra anxiety and when calmness is required.
Brahmi Plus formula combines herbs that are used to enhance concentration, mental clarity and attention span. Use it before exams, presentations or just to keep you totally focused.
Valerian & Ashwagandha formula is used to help manage stress if it is disturbing your sleep. It is used to give resoundingly deep and comforting rest.
Brahmi Mind Oil is used as a hair oil to help you keep cool and nourish the mind. It is also a relaxing head massage oil.
Organic Rose Water is a divine smelling spray to keep you cool and calm in the heat of the moment.
Take Organic Hemp Seed Oil in your diet as it is great for nourishing the brain and nervous system.
Make time for a Relax Tea combining a blend of chamomile, fennel and marshmallow root to help keep you serene.
Some Ayurvedic dietary suggestions for stress
Use organic whole-foods. Eat them warm and cooked
Do not use refined, processed, ‘junk’ food; sugar, coffee, colas, alcohol or tobacco
Add foods containing germanium to oxygenate the cells such as barley and chlorella
Include green chlorophyll-rich foods that aid cellular regeneration such as spinach and broccoli
Certain foods are renowned for inducing a strong mind: walnuts, spirulina, hemp seed oil, ghee, oats, broad beans
Drink almond milk regularly
Lifestyle recommendations
Get enough sleep. The average adult needs 7-9 hours of restful sleep each night for the body and mind to regenerate properly.
Stretch your body and breathe in deeply. You’ll feel invigorated, grounded and more empowered. Even better, join a Yoga class. You’ll meet new people and gain strength of body, mind and soul!
Massage yourself with warm sesame oil every morning before your shower for a grounding and nourishing start to the day.
Testimonial
“I had been finding that by the end of each week I was more tired than the previous. I began to get over-tired and my sleep patterns got completely disrupted. By the weekend, I’d be too exhausted to enjoy time with my wife and family. I started taking Valerian & Ashwagandha Formula, to regulate my sleep, and Brahmi Plus to help with my concentration. I now not only have energy at the weekends, but find I’m sharper and more efficient at work.”
Adam, 38, graphic designer
If you are taking medication seek the advice of your doctor.