In this fast-paced world stress and anxiety have become so common and normalized that people are starting to live with it instead of trying to treat it.  Stress is acquired from multiple areas in our lives. It can be our workplace, school, college, family and it goes on. But chronic stress can result in health complications like heart problems, anxiety, insomnia and depression. What if we say, there is a natural way out of this? Ayurveda with its time-tested practices and treatments recommends us to do 7 things overcoming stress and anxiety. But first what causes anxiety? There are three doshas which are the Vatta, Pitta and Kapha dosha. When these are in balance it maintains our body’s overall well-being. When there is an imbalance in any one of these three health issues start occurring.  Vata dosha controls movements which includes heart rate, breathing and mindset. When this dosha has an increase and is in excess, this might cause anxiety, fear, panic attacks, depression etc.  

Balance and reduce anxiety and stress with Ayurveda 

1. Acknowledgment

The first and most important step in the process of handling stress and anxiety is acknowledging what it is! We humans have a system in ourselves that provides us with emotional guidance to process our emotions effectively. To address this internal system, one must not ignore it but accept the reality.  

2. Diaphragmatic breathing

Also called belly breathing, diaphragmatic breathing helps the individuals by filling the lungs more efficiently that has a lot of benefits like: 

• Anxiety reduction  

• Stress reduction  

• Lowers blood pressure  

• Enables you to feel and be present  

• Promotes relaxation  

3. Limit screen time 

The things we see on the internet can be overwhelming. Social media, news and technology can lead to overall anxiety and stress, sometimes even suicidal tendencies. Set a routine and avoid screen time after a particular time. For example, No TV, no laptops and no mobile phones after 6pm.  Instead of taking a walk, reading a book and relaxing with peers will help.  

4. Set yourself a routine 

In ayurveda routines are referred to as dinacharya. The Vatta dosha loves routine or rhythm. Following a routine can help in managing stress and uncertainty. Follow ayurvedic routines like: 

• Drink a glass of warm water with lemon first thing in the morning  

• Massage your gums with sesame oils  

• Practice abhyanga full-body massage  

• Eat breakfast that includes seasonal foods  

• Keep yourself clean and clear out ama 

• Practice meditating  

5. Restorative yoga and meditation

Yoga done at a slower pace is called restorative yoga. This lets your body calm down by focusing on your breathing, relieving tension. This especially eases Vata by supporting internal movement. Few Yoga asanas that can be done are: 

• Balasana: Child’s pose  

• Savasana: Done in the end of restorative yoga  

• Viparita karani: legs up the wall pose  

6. Herbs that helps with stress 

There are lot of medicinal herbs in ayurveda that help in overcoming stress and anxiety. Listing a few: 

• Ashwagandha  

• Tulsi  

• Brahmi  

• Chamomile tea  

• Amla  

• Shankhapushpi  

• Milk with honey and turmeric  

• Scents of lavender and rose are known to calm people 

There are a lot of methods in ayurveda to overcome stress and anxiety. First acknowledge it and talk to a Heathcare professional. Together, the healthcare professional will help you come up with a treatment plan that helps in reducing stress and anxiety.