Our emotional wellbeing is deeply tied to the balance of our physical bodies, our hormones, the weather and seasons – so many interconnected aspects of life. Here are some Ayurvedic principles as tools to balance depressed emotions. Don’t underestimate the power of some of these simple ideas.
Ayurveda, all matter is believed to be made up of five elements – earth, fire, water, air, and ether. They manifest in the human body as three basic principles: Vata (ether and air), Pitta (fire and water) and Kapha (earth and water). It follows that physical or mental afflictions – including depression and mood swings – are created from an imbalance in these principles.
Depression is typically attributed to a Kapha imbalance, but Pitta- and Vata- based depression can occur, too. Kapha depression is often characterized by a lack of energy, while Pitta manifests as agitation, and Vata as anxiety. Pitta depression is often linked to self-destructive behavior, and requires close management. Despite these subtleties, below are some broadly relevant practices you can implement to combat depression and anxiety, regardless of principal type.
Although depression can feel debilitating, the first step toward its management is its recognition. These Ayurvedic solutions are easy to integrate, and can be effective tools to promote positive wellbeing and help alleviate feelings of depression. Most importantly, remember that you’re not alone, and that you’re stronger than an emotional imbalance – feelings of anxiety and depression can be overcome!
LIFESTYLE CHANGES
Create Routines
Create a sense of routine by waking up early and exposing yourself to bright sunlight first thing in the morning! Aim to eat meals at the same time each day, and make sure your surroundings are tidy and serene, as cleanliness is a powerful tool to manage depressive feelings.
Get Rest
Deep rest is fundamental to mental recovery and hormone regulation. Try going to bed before 10 p.m., and avoid sleeping on your belly. Abhyanga (oil massages) and Shirodhara (pouring herbal oil on the forehead) are two Ayurvedic practices that will also promote restful sleep.
Do Yoga
Brisk walks and a regular yoga practice are very helpful with managing all types of depression. These and other forms of non-competitive exercise that are focused on repetitive movement can have a stabilizing effect on the mind. The plough, palm tree, lotus, cobra, yoga mudra and corpse poses are especially beneficial for those suffering from depression. Half bow and shoulder stand should be incorporated by those suffering from an excess of Pitta, which can be characterized by feelings of anger or hatred. Backward bends can also be helpful in promoting restful sleep. Consider practicing Pranayama, as well. For Pitta types, use left nostril breathing (i.e. inhale through the left nostril, and exhale through the right). Kapha types should use right nostril breathing, and Vata types should alternate between the two.
DIET CHANGES
Foods to Avoid
In general, overeating – or even eating to full capacity – should be avoided. While specific foods relate to managing specific types of depression, oily, spicy and pungent foods should be avoided across the board. Make sure to integrate fresh fruits and vegetables into every meal, as well.
How To Hydrate
A glass of raw, warm milk with ginger before bedtime nourishes the mind and relaxes the body – but be cautious when drinking raw milk, and ensure it is bacteria free and safe! Avoid ice water, and store water in a copper water bottle to aid liver and spleen function, which are believed to regulate the body’s natural toxin elimination functions. Limit coffee and tea intake and avoid alcohol entirely!
Eat Seasonally
Adjust your diet according to the time of year by consuming cooling foods like goat’s milk, beans, carrots, broccoli, cucumbers, spinach, bananas and melons after summer has ended. Increase fat and protein intake prior to winter to help the mind combat the depressive feelings associated with changing seasons.
NATURAL REMEDIES
Herbal Treatments
Withania Somnifera and Bacopa Monnieri are widely used in Ayurveda to relax the mind and manage mood. They can be used topically in oil form, or with food and are typically taken with clarified butter, according to Ayurvedic tradition. As always, make sure to verify source purity before consuming! Finally, turmeric can be taken with food or in milk to help manage the depressive feelings associated with seasonal changes.
Essential Oils
Essential oils of rose, ylang ylang, cedarwood, marjoram and calamus have excellent therapeutic properties that address sadness, lethargy, and other moods associated with depression.
For further information about depressions please click here.
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