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Time of India
4 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Beyond quick fixes: How ayurveda heals the mind-body connection
Ayurveda, a 5,000-year-old holistic science, emphasizes the interconnectedness of mind and body for achieving lasting mental well-being. It focuses on balancing the doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) and cultivating Sattva through herbal remedies, mindful practices, and lifestyle adjustments. By integrating these principles, individuals can attain emotional stability and resilience in today's fast-paced world. In today's hyper-connected, modern world, talk of mental wellbeing is finally picking up steam. And yet, the answers we tend to find are in the form of band-aids like fast vacations, short getaways, or short digital detoxes, which, although useful, seldom deal with the true source of desequilibre. Ayurveda , India's 5,000-year-old holistic science, is quite different. It recognises that body and mind are not independent of each other but intensely connected, and that long-term mental health can only be achieved by tending to them in unison. Ayurveda does not view the mind simply in terms of moods or symptoms; it views it as part of an overall system ruled by the three doshas, Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. The health of these doshas has a direct bearing on our emotional stability, clarity of thought, and capacity to deal with stress. Ayurveda's perception of the mind-body relationship Image: Canva Mental well-being in Ayurveda is described as "manasik swasthya," or a balanced and healthy state of mind. This equilibrium is subject to the influence of three mental virtues or gunas: Sattva: Purity, clearness, and intelligence Rajas: Activity, restlessness, and desire Tamas: Laziness, sluggishness, and ignorance A Sattvic mind is peaceful, clean, and satisfied. When Rajas or Tamas get over-powering, tension, nervousness, moodiness, or depression sets in. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 50 Floors of Elevated Living by Raymond Realty Raymond Realty Learn More Undo Ayurveda strives to promote Sattva while mildly suppressing the rajasic and tamasic states. The objective is not to eliminate doshas but to equalise them so that the mind is best able to perform. Herbal support Image : Canva Ayurveda has a whole pharmacopeia of herbs that were centuries ago used to feed the nervous system and increase mental acuity: Brahmi: Enhances memory, concentration, and capacity for learning. Ashwagandha: Mitigates stress, enhances emotional coping, and normalises cortisol. Shankhpushpi: Soothes mental restlessness and helps maintain healthy sleep habits. Jatamansi: Herbal sedative for relaxation and alleviation of tension. Herbs may be consumed as powders, teas, oils, or capsules, according to lifestyle choices. Ayurvedic products for mental well-being Image: Canva With busy urban lives in the modern era, not everybody can be grinding herbs or making decoctions from home. To the good fortune of all, Ayurvedic products have become more convenient without compromising on its genuineness. Herbal teas with Brahmi or Ashwagandha, Chyawanprash for immunity and energy, Ashwagandha capsules to combat stress, and Brahmi oil for head massage are now easily found in shops and over the internet. Certain companies, such as Patanjali, have made these ancient remedies affordable and easy to use, making them a part of the daily regime. Ayurveda isn't brand-oriented, but the efforts of such companies have brought ancient herbal remedies back into mainstream wellness. Sustainability & the ayurvedic lifestyle In contrast to most contemporary wellness fads, Ayurveda is highly sustainable. It encourages seasonal food intake, locally sourced herbal use, and conscious consumption, all of which decrease the body's stress burden and enable planetary health. Even minor shifts, such as substituting chemical-laden personal care products with natural ones or opting for herbal tea over coffee, can cause a cascade effect on mental clarity. Real life experiences Pragya Chakraborty, says "Corporate life is a job under high pressure, with constant deadlines, late nights and constant coffee breaks. I started to feel mentally drained and unfocused. A friend recommended Ayurveda, and my practitioner prescribed Brahmi tea first thing every morning, 10 minutes of meditation, and Abhyanga massage with sesame oil once a week. After two months, my sleep was better, concentration improved, and I could cope with stress much better. It's now no longer a routine, it's my sanity in a fast-paced world." Manisha Pandey, a college student, says "I was studying for competitive exams and always used to feel stressed out. My mind would either be racing with thoughts or become extremely lethargic and unable to concentrate. I changed to a Satvik diet, began doing pranayama every day, and consumed Ashwagandha capsules as advised by my Ayurvedic physician. My anxiety decreased, I slept better, and my study sessions were more productive within weeks. Ayurveda didn't only assist me in preparing for exams, it made the entire process less stressful and even enjoyable." Ayurveda is the study that says mental well-being is not an independent endeavor but an inextricable component of overall wellness. By harmonising the doshas, cultivating Sattva, and taking thoughtful life decisions, we can build emotional balance that cannot be disturbed by life's problems. Through herbal assistance, everyday rituals, or mindful eating, the Ayurvedic way provides not merely symptomatic relief but a lifestyle where peace of mind becomes the rule, not the exception. In an age that is obsessed with speed, Ayurveda teaches us to pause, tune in to what our body is telling us, and nurture the mind.
Hans India
20-06-2025
- Health
- Hans India
Powerful Ayurvedic Herbs to Ease Stress, Anxiety, and Low Mood
In today's fast-moving world, feeling stressed or anxious has become part of everyday life for many. With long work hours, personal responsibilities, and constant digital noise, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. While quick fixes and medications are available, more people are now turning toward natural ways to manage their mental well-being. That's where Ayurveda steps in. This time-honoured system of healing from India focuses on balancing the body and mind using herbs, lifestyle habits, and mindfulness. Among its many natural tools, certain herbs have gained attention for their calming and mood-stabilizing benefits. These gentle, plant-based remedies offer support for stress, anxiety, and even low moods—without harsh side effects. Here's a look at six Ayurvedic herbs that have been used for centuries to bring calm and clarity. 1. Ashwagandha Ashwagandha is one of the most well-known herbs in Ayurveda. It's considered an adaptogen, meaning it helps the body adapt to stress and regain balance. Ashwagandha works by lowering cortisol, the 'stress hormone,' and promoting deeper, more restful sleep. It can also help improve energy levels and emotional resilience over time. 2. Brahmi Known as a brain tonic, Brahmi is popular for its ability to sharpen memory and improve focus. But it's not just about productivity—Brahmi also helps ease anxiety and uplifts mood by balancing the brain's chemicals. People often turn to this herb for better mental clarity and emotional stability. 3. Tulsi (Holy Basil) Often found in Indian homes, Tulsi isn't just sacred—it's powerful. It's packed with antioxidants and supports the body in managing stress. Drinking tulsi tea is a simple, comforting ritual that can calm the mind, support immunity, and ease mild symptoms of anxiety and fatigue. 4. Bhringaraj While it's mostly known for promoting hair health, Bhringaraj also has calming effects on the mind. Used in teas or supplements, it helps improve blood flow to the brain, encourages better sleep, and promotes a sense of peace. It's great for those who struggle to wind down at night. 5. Shankhpushpi This gentle herb works on the nervous system to ease tension, restlessness, and irritability. With its natural calming properties, Shankhpushpi supports better mood balance and helps you relax without feeling drowsy. It also improves the quality of your sleep, making it a helpful bedtime companion. 6. Lemon Balm A member of the mint family, lemon balm has a light lemony scent and is known for its calming properties. It helps reduce anxious feelings, lifts mood, and even supports brain health. It's also used for sleep troubles, digestive issues, and general relaxation. These six herbs aren't magic pills—but when used consistently, they can gently support your mental and emotional wellness. Whether taken as teas, powders, or supplements, they help bring the body and mind back into balance. As always, it's best to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new herbal routine, especially if you're taking medication. With nature on your side, you can find calm—even in a noisy world.
